Photo Credit Edgar Daniel
Bay-Area bred, LA-based R&B artist thuy (pronounced “twee”) delivers a glistening new EP, girls like me don’t cry, accompanied by a dreamy music video for the project’s title track. The 7-track record is an ode to love of all sorts, from self-love to relationships and what it means to experience all of its trials and tribulations.
Brimming with timeless story-telling, warm vocals, and fluttering melodies, the project feels like an important new chapter for the young artist as she sees herself transform from hometown hero to global icon.
“It’s okay to cry,” expresses thuy. “Crying is not a sign of weakness; crying is when you are in tune with yourself, and you let it out and then go back to go back to your life. When I wrote this song, I was trying to tough it out during a really hard time in my life, and all I wanted to do was let it out. Once I did, I felt like a huge weight off my shoulder, and it showed me that I can have and show emotion but still be strong at the same time.”
Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind your new project?
My EP girls like me don’t cry first started came to life when I made the song “insecurities.” It was the first one we recorded that made the project. It was very vulnerable talking about the insecurities of being a woman in the music industry and not loving myself at the time. Then, I recorded the song “girls like me don’t cry”. Growing up, I was called “crybaby” a lot because I used to cry all the time – when I was happy, sad, hungry… Literally anything. I was always very emotional and when I recorded the song I wanted to pay homage to all the strong women out there that feel like they have to maintain this tough exterior just to face the world. I instantly knew after recording this song that I’d name the project after that song. The rest fell into that narrative.
Are there any specific topics in your new music that you never thought you’d write about so openly?
Talking about sex on “you should feel special.” You don’t expect the chorus to hit like that. Sex is taboo in my community to talk about but now I’m coming into my womanhood and loving myself at all angles. I want to empower women to feel good in their skin. It’s about feeling sexy, not necessarily about the act itself. All these topics I didn’t feel comfortable talking about when I was growing up but with this project I just wanted to fully be myself.
Are there any funny or standout moments from your time in the studio making this project?
When we made the title track, we were all jumping up and down on the couches and dancing around because we knew we had created something special. I also definitely cried multiple times. Making music is like therapy but with melodies. You unpack everything and then cry. I’m coming to terms with things when I’m in the studio so it was lots of emotional moments but also a lot of fun, too. The project is like a mental time capsule.
Aside from music, what are some of your other favorite pastimes/hobbies?
I love moving my body and being active! I was an athlete all my life. I love boxing and walking my dog, especially. I love my dog! He’s my life, so anytime I can get him to the beach or park and see his little legs running it makes me so happy and recharges me. It makes me ready to take on things.
Is there a specific record or an artist that you look up to that helped shape your creativity?
I always think of Kehlani when I reflect on artists that I look up to because she came from the same place as me and she has accomplished so much. The thing I love about her, besides her music, is that she’s come into herself so beautifully. She’s so grounded and I look up to her a lot because she’s unapologetically herself. It makes me want to be myself. She’s inspired me in that way.
Musically, I find inspiration from so many different people, not even just musicians. Just from my daily life and life experiences. I also grew up listening to Brandy, Mariah Carey, Tamia… and they always inspired me. Without trying, the early 90s vibes seem to always seep into the music.
Are you ready for your upcoming tour? Which show are you most excited for?
I don’t think I’m ready! There’s so much planning that goes into it like styling, arrangement, and everything in between. No one is ever ready in that way but I’m ready to sing for my fans and see them and touch them. That feeling is so cool.
I’m excited about The Regency Ballroom in my hometown. Last November I played at Brick & Mortar which is like a 250 capacity venue and in May of this year we played at New Parrish which is about a 600 capacity. Now, The Regency is 1,500 people and I’m so excited to be back home. All my friends and family will be there! It’s so legendary. To be able to say it’s sold out makes me feel beyond supported and loved.
Is there any advice you’d give to other young aspiring singer-songwriters?
My advice is that it’s never too late to pursue your passions in life! I always wanted to be a singer, but I was working towards a career in medicine, studying pre-med in college and then got a job at an optometry clinic. Then I finally took a chance on myself. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it, even when odds were stacked against me. I knew I wouldn’t be happy with myself if I never tried to go after my dreams. Never feel pressured to compare yourself to those around you. Everyone has their own unique path!
