UPSAHL Unleashes ‘Drugs’ Music Video: A Glitter-Fueled Dive into Her Empowering Indie Pop World

In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of modern music, UPSAHL stands out as a distinctive and refreshing voice. She’s not your typical pop sensation; while her melodies are undeniably infectious and lodge themselves effortlessly in your mind, her artistic expression is rooted deeply in authenticity. Eschewing elaborate on-stage choreography, UPSAHL commands attention with a guitar firmly in hand, channeling raw emotion and rock-infused energy. Her aesthetic might gravitate towards bright, eye-catching hues, but her music transcends the fleeting sweetness of bubblegum pop, offering a rich, substantive sound that resonates far beyond a superficial listen.

The depth in UPSAHL’s music, often delivered through her sugary-sweet yet powerful vocals, becomes even clearer when you delve into her formative influences. It’s no surprise to learn that legendary indie rock bands like Weezer and The Shins were early inspirations, shaping her unique sonic palette. This blend of alternative sensibility with pop hooks positions UPSAHL, whose real name is Taylor Upsahl, as an artist truly carving her own niche. Her meteoric rise is undeniable, culminating in a highly anticipated performance at Lollapalooza 2019. Audiences there can expect to experience the dynamic tracks from her critically acclaimed new EP, Hindsight 20/20, a collection that showcases her best work yet.

Signed to Arista Records, UPSAHL’s Hindsight 20/20 EP has been lauded for its mature sound and candid songwriting. The collection exhibits an intriguing sonic kinship with the iconic Gwen Stefani, a long-time hero and significant influence for the rising star. While still early in her journey, UPSAHL possesses a clarity and conviction that belies her relative newness, eloquently articulating her thoughts on life, love, and the profound power of being a female artist in today’s music industry. Her ability to connect with listeners through honest lyrics and a compelling stage presence suggests a long and impactful career ahead.

Growing Up in a World of Music: A Natural Path

The foundation of UPSAHL’s musical inclinations was laid very early in life, deeply rooted in her family environment. We asked her about the impact of growing up amidst melodies and rhythms.

Do you think growing up in a musical family influenced your decision to become a musician yourself?

UPSAHL: Absolutely, it was almost inescapable. My dad was heavily involved in punk bands, playing from his high school days right up until I was born. So, I was literally surrounded by music from the moment I could perceive sound. Our house wasn’t just a home; it was a hub for musicians. We had a dedicated band room, and it wasn’t uncommon for touring bands to stop through Phoenix and crash in our living room. I remember waking up to the sounds of rehearsals or late-night jam sessions. It felt like I was practically born into this world, and it profoundly shaped my path.

“Drugs”: A Lead Single Born of Pride and Vision

The single “Drugs” serves as the powerful lead track off the Hindsight 20/20 EP, instantly grabbing attention with its bold lyrics and infectious energy. We discussed what made this particular song stand out as the ideal introduction to her new body of work.

“Drugs” is the lead single off the EP. What made that stand out for you to release as the lead single?

UPSAHL: “Drugs” was one of those rare moments in my songwriting journey. I had been writing constantly over the past year, almost every single day, collaborating with so many different people and exploring various styles. But “Drugs” emerged as a track where I felt an unparalleled sense of pride. It truly was the song I was most proud of, perhaps ever. It hit different. It was the one song I could play for anyone—friends, family, strangers, industry professionals—and if for some reason they didn’t connect with it, I’d confidently retort, ‘No, you’re wrong.’ It had that undeniable quality, that spark that just felt right to lead the charge for the EP.

Bringing “Drugs” to Life: A Glitter-Fueled Fantasy

The music video for “Drugs” is a visual feast, a vibrant and glitter-filled fantasy that perfectly complements the song’s rebellious spirit and catchy rhythm. We dove into the creative process behind bringing this dazzling vision to the screen.

Can you tell me about making the video?

UPSAHL: The experience of making the “Drugs” music video was incredible, largely due to my collaboration with an amazing director named Patrick Lawler. He was the mastermind behind the entire concept – the idea of using so much glitter, making everything incredibly shiny, colorful, and visually captivating. What I appreciated most about working with Patrick was his incredibly collaborative approach. He was open to ideas, listened to my input, and truly worked with me to bring our shared vision to life. The whole shoot felt effortless, flowing smoothly from start to finish. It genuinely stands out as one of the easiest, most enjoyable photo and video shoots I’ve ever been a part of. The atmosphere was positive, and the end result truly captured the essence we aimed for.

Crafting Hindsight 20/20: An EP of Empowerment and Attitude

The Hindsight 20/20 EP isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a statement, a carefully curated auditory experience designed to leave a lasting impression. We explored the overarching themes and desired impact UPSAHL aimed for when piecing together this powerful project.

When you were pulling songs together for an EP, what vibe were you aiming for?

UPSAHL: As an artist, I believe it’s fundamentally important to create music that makes people *feel* something profound. For me, that ‘something’ is inspiration and empowerment. I want my listeners to feel like a “baller ass bitch,” for lack of a better, more concise phrase, you know? It’s about instilling a sense of confidence and unapologetic self-worth. Take a song like “All My Friends are Rich,” for instance. That track is all about embracing your financial reality, even if you’re a bit broke, and doing so with humor and a bold attitude, like, ‘where in the hell is my money?’ It’s incredibly positive and playfully defiant. Then there’s “Smarty,” which carries a different, yet equally empowering message. It’s about sending all the roses you want to that one ‘douche lord’ in your life, metaphorically telling them to back off and respect your boundaries. It’s a powerful anthem for women, giving them the voice to assert themselves and demand the respect they deserve. The entire EP is crafted to make listeners feel strong, confident, and ready to conquer whatever comes their way.

On the Road with Max Frost: A Mentorship and Friendship

Touring is an essential part of an artist’s journey, offering a unique opportunity to connect with fans and refine one’s craft. UPSAHL’s experience opening for Max Frost proved to be a pivotal and deeply personal chapter. We delved into how this collaboration came about.

How did you link up with Max Frost for tour?

UPSAHL: My connection with Max goes back several years. We initially met during a session where we wrote my very first two singles, which was a fantastic experience. From that point on, we really just kept in touch. Our relationship evolved into something more like a family bond; he’s truly become like a big brother to me. Beyond the friendship, he’s also an incredible mentor, offering invaluable advice and guidance as I navigate the music industry. So, when he decided he was heading out on tour, it was a very natural conversation. He simply reached out and said, ‘Come open for me!’ It was an honor, and a no-brainer, to join him on the road. It’s been an amazing experience learning from him and sharing the stage.

From Alternative Rock to Pop Powerhouses: Charting Her Inspirations

Beyond her immediate family, UPSAHL’s musical foundation was built upon a diverse array of artists spanning multiple genres. Her influences paint a clear picture of her unique sound, blending rock grit with pop sensibility. We explored the artists who shaped her creative vision.

Who inspired you musically aside from your family?

UPSAHL: My musical tastes were pretty eclectic growing up. I spent a lot of my childhood immersed in alternative and rock music. Bands like Weezer, Spoon, and The Shins were constants in my headphones, their songwriting and unique sounds leaving a significant impression. As I moved into middle school and high school, my palette expanded to include more contemporary artists, particularly those known for their bold and unapologetic artistry. I developed a deep admiration for Lorde, who brought such a fresh and raw perspective to pop music. But perhaps the most massive inspiration for me came from a host of incredible, “badass” female artists, most notably No Doubt and its iconic frontwoman, Gwen Stefani.

Gwen Stefani was a revelation. She was this incredible powerhouse of a woman, effortlessly cool, fiercely independent, and completely unafraid to do exactly what she wanted, whether it was fronting a punk-ska band or embarking on a massively successful solo pop career. As a young girl growing up, seeing someone like Gwen Stefani dominate the stage with such confidence and artistic integrity was profoundly impactful. She wasn’t just a performer; she was a role model, embodying strength and autonomy. I’m endlessly thankful that I had a figure like her to look up to – someone who demonstrated that you could be feminine, powerful, and utterly authentic all at once. Her influence instilled in me the belief that I could pursue my own unique path in music, without compromise.

The Power of the Female Artist in Today’s World

UPSAHL’s admiration for artists like Gwen Stefani isn’t just about musical style; it’s about the broader statement they make. In an era where female voices are increasingly amplified, UPSAHL embodies the spirit of empowerment and self-expression, resonating deeply with her audience.

Her music, particularly tracks like “Smarty,” directly addresses themes of female empowerment, asserting control and demanding respect. This isn’t just a personal stance; it’s a reflection of a growing movement within the music industry where female artists are not only breaking barriers but also setting new standards for authenticity and influence. UPSAHL, with her guitar-wielding stage presence and candid lyricism, is very much a part of this wave, using her platform to inspire confidence and strength in her listeners.

She believes in creating a space where people feel uplifted and ready to tackle life’s challenges with a fierce attitude. By embracing her own experiences—from navigating relationships to dealing with financial realities—and transforming them into relatable, anthemic songs, UPSAHL reinforces the idea that vulnerability can be a source of immense power. Her commitment to being an honest, unvarnished artist is a testament to the evolving landscape for women in music, where raw talent and genuine self-expression are celebrated above all else.

Looking Ahead: The Bright Future of UPSAHL

With a compelling EP, a memorable music video, and a string of influential tours under her belt, UPSAHL is undeniably one of the most exciting emerging artists to watch. Her unique blend of indie rock influences with pop sensibilities, coupled with her empowering lyrical themes, positions her as a distinctive voice in contemporary music. As she continues to perform at major festivals like Lollapalooza and connect with fans across the globe, her trajectory points towards a future filled with continued success and impactful artistry. UPSAHL isn’t just making music; she’s crafting anthems for a generation, inspiring confidence and celebrating authenticity with every note.