Any true pop fan will recognize Uffie and her timeless classic ‘Pop the Glock’.
The legendary track inspired a legion of indie pop girls and, despite first being released in 2006, continues to inspire today. ‘Pop the Glock’ was eventually released on Uffie’s debut 2010 album, Sex Dreams and Denim Jeans, and the album cemented Uffie as the rising star to look out for.
But then, as quickly as she rose, Uffie disappeared – until 2018, when she finally resurfaced as a solo artist after an extended hiatus. ‘Drugs’, her first single since 2010, was a welcomed return to top form for the artist, who included the track on her comeback EP Tokyo Love Hotel.
We welcome back the original indie queen with a chat about that break, her latest single ‘Weed & Drum Machine’ as well as why the “future feels very female.”
Is there a quote you consider to be your life motto?
Just don’t be a dick.
What’s in your Recently Played list on Spotify?
“Gretel” – (Sandy) Alex G
“Ready, Set, Go (ft. T.I.)” – Killer Mike
“Cruel When Complete” – Dome
“HIGHEST IN THE ROOM” – Travis Scott
“Oh Baby” – LCD Soundsystem
“Call Your Girlfriend” – Robyn
“Thuggish Ruggish Bone”- Bone Thugs N Harmony
What are your favorite sounds to incorporate into your music?
I’m quite into keeping things minimal at the moment. I’ve been having fun exploring more random sounds like water drops etc. I will forever love synthesizers, and traveling is incredible for discovering new noises and vibes.
What emotions do you hope your music conveys to the listener?
Many emotions. Of course I want to make music that cheers people up or helps them heal or gives them the energy to dance. But, I also want to make songs for when you’re having a rough one or need to cry or to hear some relatable honesty. I hope one song can be a shoulder when you need it, and another one can be a disco ball to turn up to.
What is the message behind ‘Weed & Drum Machine’, your latest single?
It’s a bit of a mantra, you could say.
After almost a decade of no new music, you finally made your comeback – why was now the right time to comeback after all this time?
I missed music a lot, and the timing finally aligned.
What was the toughest part of creating new music after such a long gap?
Finding sounds and vibes that reflect who I am now, while continuing to take risks.
How have the messages in your current music developed since your ‘Pop the Glock’ days?
I think the messages have matured with point of view. I’m drawing from more life experience… but I’m still here for the bad bitches! 🙂
As an indie artist, what would you say are the pros and cons of releasing music independently?
You have complete control. You can drop what you want, when you want and do things your own way. But that also means there’s a lot more on you to get it done and make things happen. I think the industry is shifting a lot right now and it’s a very interesting time to be an independent artist.
You have been in the industry for around 15 years now, but was there ever a moment where you felt like giving up on music and doing something else?
For sure. It’s something most artists I know deal with regularly. I did take a break though… I studied biology, interned at a zoo, learned new things and explored. It was necessary for me to take that time, but I can’t imagine not making music forever.
Is there anything in your career that you feel like you are still learning?
Hell yes! I’m lucky enough to live in a city that is full of insanely talented people, who also happen to be some of the best humans I’ve met. I feel like I learn and grow a little with each studio session. Writing for other artists has been almost therapeutic as it allows me to get out of my own head. It’s made me start looking at my own artist project more freely.
During your career, have you ever felt pressured to fit a certain ‘mold’ as an artist?
I wouldn’t say I’ve felt pressured to fit a “mold” per say… but have dealt with people who have their own version of you in their minds.
Have you ever noticed any double standards when it comes to gender in the music industry?
I’ve noticed and experienced it. It’s something that exists in our world and the music business is no exception to that. I do think people are very aware of that though and the future feels very female!
How do you feel about the representation and portrayal of female musicians? What do you think has changed since you started out in the industry?
There are some really incredible female musicians and artists that are not the classic “sexy pop star” vibe right now and that’s super dope.
From a female perspective, is there anything about the music industry that frustrates you?
I am very lucky to work with a team of very strong women… and really epic humans. But as a whole, seeing sexism and belittling is infuriating.
What challenges do you think female musicians are facing today?
The percentage of female producers is quite low… I am seeing more and more female producers but the difference in numbers really says something. I want to see more women driving sessions.
Are there any up and coming female musicians you have your eye on?
Sigrid is lovely, really love some DaniLeigh, and Dorian Electra is so fun!
What advice would you give to young girls and women looking to work in music?
To question what drives and inspires them… and hold on to what they want and envision. Don’t let go of your authenticity just because someone tells you acting or looking a different way will advance your career.
What’s left to come in 2019 and what have you got planned for 2020?
I will continue to release singles this year, and am really excited about my next larger body of work. The project is very visually focused, and the sonic world is built from there.