Self Esteem on her love of Bristol, art and politics and being her authentic self

Rebecca Lucy Taylor AKA Self Esteem might be making some noise now but she’s not new to the music industry.

Previously part of the folk duo, Slow Club, which formed in 2006, Taylor has since garnered recognition around the world for her 2021 sophomore album, Prioritise Pleasure, under her stage name Self Esteem.

Prioritise Pleasure saw her nominated for a Brit Award, a Mercury Prize Award, an NME Award and win Artist of the Year at the BBC Music Introducing Awards.

However, it was her debut solo album, released in 2019, which allowed her to full express herself as an artist.

“It was the beginning of the wool being pulled back from my eyes,” she tells Bristol24/7 of her album, Compliments Please.

The debut album saw her embark on her first solo tour and perform at UK festivals including Glastonbury, British Summer Time and Latitude.

However, it was Prioritise Pleasure that put her firmly on the map as it was ranked Best Album of The Year 2021 by The Guardian, The Sunday Times and Gigwise.

What was it like when the album went stratospheric? “It’s been very emotional,” she tells us.

“14 years touring music and to finally have that not feel quite so weighted against me was bliss. I haven’t had a day off in two years though, you should see my wash basket/bikini line.”

Known for her pop melodies alongside fierce and raw lyrics, the singer doesn’t hold back – in her music as well as in life.

“I can’t do anything but be raw and authentic. When I try to keep a lid on my sensitivity is when I am at my most unhappy.”

Born from her authenticity is her confident, forward-thinking, rallying cry music which is completely infections and bewitching.

When discussing the entanglement of art and politics, the artist explains: “Being a visible artist and certainly being a visible female artist means neutrality keeps you safe.

“As my profile grows it’s been harder and harder to fight for what, I think, is right, but I have to be brave. The country/world is in such a hateful terrifying state, to sing about butterflies and loving a boyfriend/girlfriend would, for me personally, feel ludicrous.”

Self Esteem returned to Glastonbury Festival last year (which she says “is up there” as one of her favourite performances) and was warmly welcomed at Forwards Festival on The Downs last September as well as performing to a sold-out crowd at The Marble Factory earlier this year.

“I genuinely love Bristol, one of my best friends lives there James Hankins,” she tells us.

“He has been instrumental in my self belief and growth as an artist so it’s always a chance to see Junkles and secondary to that the city is gorgeous, loads of good art and the crowds are always so kind.”

The singer will take to the stage at Lloyds Amphitheatre as part of the outdoor summer series, Bristol Sounds, on June 25.

Joining her will be Nottingham four-piece Divorce, singer-songwriter Anna Calvi and Bristol’s own Lynks.

“I’m buzzing to see Lynks, I’m a big fan,” the artist says. “I’m also a major Divorce fan and I’m worried about how loudly I’ll be singing along when I should be warming my voice up for my show.”

Tickets are on sale now for Self Esteem at Bristol Sounds and can be found at https://www.seetickets.com/event/bristol-sounds-self-esteem/canons-marsh-amphitheatre/2606155

Main photo: courtesy of Plaster PR

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• Mika announced as final headliner for Bristol Sounds
• Self Esteem to play Bristol Sounds show
• Idles and Self Esteem pay tribute to Big Jeff at Glastonbury 

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