The Rise of Towa Bird: An Exclusive Insight into ‘American Hero’

In the heart of Los Angeles, where the sun blazes bright and the music scene pulses with life, Towa Bird has emerged as a beacon of creativity and authenticity. Fresh off the release of her debut album, American Hero, which dropped at the end of June, Towa Bird opens up with OFM about her journey, struggles, and the inspiration behind her latest work. This intimate interview reveals a multifaceted artist who’s navigating her path with wisdom beyond her years.

A New Home and a New Chapter

Relocating just down the street to a new house in Los Angeles marked a significant change for Towa. Amidst unpacking boxes and settling in, she managed to cut herself right before our interview. She was sporting a Peppa Pig band-aid on her finger. This move symbolizes more than just a change of address. It’s a step into a new phase of her life and career.

Often battling imposter syndrome, Towa candidly shared how this feeling has both humbled and haunted her. “I’ve always felt like just a guitar player,” she admits, grappling with her identity beyond the instrument. Yet, this humility fuels her authenticity, a quality she believes is essential to overcoming self-doubt.

Vocal Inspirations and Hesitations

Despite her initial hesitation in embracing her voice as an instrument, Towa has drawn inspiration from legendary artists like John Lennon, Jeff Buckley, Karen O, Tracy Chapman, and Janis Joplin. Their influence is evident in the soulful, raw edge of her music. “I wasn’t sure about my voice,” she confides, “but working with producers helped me develop it into something uniquely mine.”

A Diverse Background

Towa’s roots span continents, with both a small English family and a large Filipino one, all of whom are engineers and scientists. As the sole musician in her family, she stood out but also faced the challenge of carving her niche. Her musical journey began in Hong Kong, where the scene was sparse and dominated by cover bands. “There wasn’t much space or interest in young original artists,” she recalls, highlighting the contrast with her current environment.

Music Beyond Labels

One of the most compelling aspects of Towa’s perspective is her view on music and identity. She resists the labels often imposed on her as a biracial, femme, and queer artist. “To me, it’s not gay music; it’s just good music,” she asserts, emphasizing that the distinction lies in others’ perceptions rather than her own self-conception.

Post-Tour Syndrome and Life in LA

Adjusting to life off the road, Towa experiences what she describes as “post-tour syndrome,” a common plight for many artists. Finding a routine and readjusting to normalcy is a challenge she meets by enjoying the outdoor lifestyle that LA’s climate offers—a stark contrast to the dreary weather of London.

The Fourth of July brought a special family reunion, with her parents flying in from Hong Kong. It was a moment of pride as they witnessed her perform as Towa Bird for the first time, finally seeing the persona she had meticulously crafted.

European Tour and Solo Success

This summer, Towa embarks on solo shows and festivals across Europe, with her solo dates selling out in just one hour. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of excitement and gratitude for the overwhelming support of her album and tour.

At only 25, Towa exhibits a maturity that belies her age. Her articulate, grounded, and mellow demeanor is likely a key factor in her early success. Transitioning to being seen as a solo artist and vocalist, she has worked closely with producers to refine her sound, moving beyond her role as a supporting artist.

The Album American Hero

American Hero is a tapestry of Towa’s experiences and reflections. One of her favorite tracks, “A Party,” stands out for its unexpected sound, showcasing the dimension of her artistry. “Deep Cut” and “Bills” are also close to her heart, with “Bills” evoking the American experience and the cultural shock of moving to the United States.

Queer Artists and Inspirations

Towa is not just a creator but also an admirer of contemporary queer artists making waves in the industry. She speaks highly of artists like Chappell Roan, Renee Rapp, and Ethel Cain. “It feels like we’re finally at the start of queer-centered pop music on the radio,” she notes, admiring their artistry and hard work.

When asked about her personal influences, she cites iconic figures like Prince, Tracy Chapman, and Queen. These legends have shaped her musical ethos, blending her unique sound with a rich legacy of groundbreaking artists.

The Origin of Towa Bird

Towa’s name carries a personal and poignant story. While “Bird” is her surname, “Towa” evolved from her attempts to pronounce her government name as a toddler. This childhood nickname stuck, becoming a symbol of her identity. “Towa is pretty much my first name at this point,” she shars, reflecting on how names can embody personal evolution.

Soaring to New Heights

As Towa Bird continues to soar, her journey inspires a generation of listeners and fellow artists alike. “American Hero” is more than an album; it’s a declaration of self and a testament to the power of authenticity. With her roots grounded in diverse influences and her eyes set on the horizon, Towa Bird is an artist whose story is just beginning. Stay tuned as she continues to break barriers and redefine the music landscape.

Featured image courtesy of Towa Bird