Check out our interview with alt-pop singer/songwriter Rachel Bochner who just released her new single, “If I’m Gunna Be Sad (I Might As Well Look Hot Doing It),” today! (4/20)
“If I’m Gunna Be Sad (I Might As Well Look Hot Doing It)” is the ultimate breakup anthem. Over moody, distorted alt-pop production, Rachel delivers relatable truth bombs about coping with a broken heart. Along with her recent single, “Sucker Punch,” “If I’m Gunna Be Sad” sets the tone for her upcoming EP, due out this Summer.
Follow Rachel @rachelbochner
Hi Rachel, please tell us a little about yourself?
I’m from New York, I’m an Aquarius (sun and moon with an Aries rising), I love coffee (mainly iced), and I love to write songs.
How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
A little delusional
We’re sure you have been asked this million times, but how did you get your start in music?
I’ve always loved music, but it took me a while to realize that I could pursue being an artist. For a while, I thought that working at a label would scratch the music loving itch for me. I had interned doing A&R at a label in the summer of 2018, which was also when I started writing more seriously, coincidentally, and it all clicked for me.
How has music changed your life?
I really found my purpose when I started making music. I think for a long time, I felt a little lost in terms of what I wanted to do with my life, and once I started writing and sharing music, this new and sparkly path appeared in front of me… So, I ran to it and have been running since.
How would you describe your sound in 3 words?
Medium spicy salsa
Who influences you?
Musically, it kind of depends on who I’ve been listening to, what I’ve been feeling and going through, etc. I grew up listening to Taylor Swift, so she will forever be a big inspiration to me, but I also am a longtime lover of a bunch of different artists like Lana Del Rey, Lorde, Phoenix, Frank Ocean…
Do you play any instruments?
Currently trying to learn all of my songs on guitar so I can be a cool girl on stage, but I mostly use piano to write on.
Tell us about your new single “If I’m Gunna Be Sad (I Might As Well Look Hot Doing It)?”
I wrote it with my best friend and frequent collaborator, Tiger Darrow. It’s fun, a little stupid, and a great tempo for strutting.
What’s the story behind the song?
The title sums it up pretty well honestly… Tiger and I wrote it about realizing that we might be sad girls at our cores, but we can still look hot doing it. The song is about acknowledging that you’ve been hurt by a situation, but not letting it ruin a good night.
And about the success of your recent single “Sucker Punch?”
“Sucker Punch” was sort of the defining song for this EP. I had a bunch of songs I knew I loved and wanted to release, but I wasn’t entirely sure they fit together. The day “Sucker Punch” was made, it was suddenly so clear which songs felt like they were part of the same world. It felt fitting to put that song out as the first single, and it’s been really amazing to see how people have resonated with it.
What is the most rewarding part of making music?
As I’ve started doing live shows, seeing fans singing along and resonating with things I’ve written is such a surreal and beautiful feeling. I’ve gotten to connect with so many wonderful fans through the internet, at the merch table at shows, and so on, and those interactions are so fulfilling to me.
If you weren’t making music, what would you be up to right now?
Probably living some version of life that looks completely different to this one. Maybe I’d be in Europe, maybe I’d start my own company, maybe I’d be a stay-at-home dog mom. I really have no idea what my life would be without music, so your guess is as good as mine.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you’ve learned so far?
That it’s usually not that serious.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
I didn’t start writing until 2018, and while I do believe that there is some bigger-than-me-woo-woo reason for that, I’d probably tell younger me to start writing, maybe take a guitar lesson or two, and to go hug mom and dad.
How would your best friend describe you?
I’ll let my bestie Tiger Darrow speak for herself: “Rachel is a sugar rimmed spicy marg. Sweet at first with some kick after. But on a more serious note, she’s also the most loyal ride-or-die friend who’s down to go to war with you, and then crack jokes from the trenches. Who is going to hold you while you cry but is never afraid to give you some tough love when you really need it. She’s an inspiring, open minded and hearted creative partner, and the best friend I’ve ever had.” (I’m literally crying now)
What’s next for Rachel Bochner in 2023?
More music (of course), lots of shows, and hopefully getting to meet lots more fans in real life.
How would you describe your fashion style?
I love contrasting pretty, frilly, feminine things with a bit of darkness/edge.
What is your own definition of happiness?
When the barista makes your coffee extra perfect, laughing so hard with your friends until your stomach hurts, seeing someone sing my lyrics back to me from the stage, a summer BBQ with my family while our dog runs around greeting everyone.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
My dad’s father was a Holocaust survivor, but he passed before I was born. I would love for the chance to meet him.
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
Other people finding success doesn’t mean there’s any less for you.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
Sold out world tour!!!!!
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car (or at karaoke)?
Any Taylor Swift song!
Where can we follow you?
@rachelbochner on IG, TikTok, wherever!
Favorite Book: Every new year I make a resolution to read more… and yet…
Favorite Quote: “Don’t be a dic*”
Favorite Movie: Disney’s Hercules – the soundtrack is SO GOOD
Favorite TV Series: Doctor Who is my current comfort show
Favorite Food: Tacos
Favorite Travel Destination: Rome, Italy
Photo Credit: Carina Allen
