Check out our interview with talented alt-pop artist Young Summer who recently released her self-titled LP.
Bobbie Allen, an American singer-songwriter, goes by the stage name Young Summer.
Originally from Washington D.C. and now based in Nashville, TN., Allen has become known for her ethereal sound, uniquely textured alto voice, raw and deliberate songwriting, and uncompromising sincerity.
The new LP is a follow-up to her 2016 EP, “You Would Have Loved It Here,” and her 2013 LP, “SIREN,” which was heralded by the indie community. Allen has performed with ODESZA, Tegan and Sara, Tove Lo, played Coachella and Sasquatch, and has
sold out the Troubadour in LA. When she isn’t on tour or releasing new music, she’s writing for other artists.
Follow Young Summer @youngsummer
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Please tell us a little about yourself.
I am a songwriter, singer, and writer currently living in Nashville, Tennessee.
Describe your sound in three words.
Whimsical, ethereal, sincere
Who influenced you, and why did you choose to make music?
I was influenced heavily by Karen Carpenter. My family always had music playing. It was basically the fifth member of our family. From the moment I could have memories I gained a profound love of music, and it just seems natural that I wanted to make it myself.
Do you play any instruments?
I do! Guitar and piano!
Do you ever get nervous?
All the time but I like to say outloud to myself “I’m not nervous, I’m so excited” and it seems to work in telling my brain to not be afraid of what I’m feeling since I heard somewhere that anxiety and excitement are roughly the same in the brain? But don’t quote me on that.
Tell us about your new self-titled album, “Young Summer?”
The album documents my growth in every way that an album can articulate those changes; all the visuals for the album, the production, the lyrics, every element of the record perfectly reflects where I am and have been since I put out my first full length record, “Siren”.
What’s the story behind the songs in the album?
The songs collectively tell a story of a girl going through all the things you do when you’re growing up, but set against the backdrop of chaos; dealing with heartbreak, falling in love and staying in love, confronting a dark world and choosing to not be beaten down by it. Confronting your mortality because of the state of the world. I’m so proud of the themes I addressed in this record – some I hadn’t been able to broach because it just felt too dark.
This is your first album since 2014. Can you share what happened in those 10 years and why now did you decided to launch the new album?
After I released my record “Siren” I was touring and making new music. I finally moved from DC to Nashville during that time between releases which has been incredible. I love Nashville so much.
But I also ventured into songwriting for other artists. I have loved being a part of other peoples’ writing processes, helping them articulate their message and story in exactly the way they want. It is such an honor to work with other artists on their music.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part is the connection I make with other people through my music. It is a shortcut to understanding someone. Being able to provide levity or support for someone that I may never meet in person is by far the most rewarding part of what I do. That is what music did for me, and still does. It provides comfort, security, levity, and sense of being understood.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
“The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield. I used to have debilitating stage fright and I absolutely credit this book for helping me get through it. I have reread it many times and especially revisit it when I need a creative boost.
What advice would you give to your younger self, and why?
Just keep going! You have truly no idea how amazing it will be. If something bad happens it’s teaching you something you need to know. Get used to just having faith in the process. Keep great people around you who will celebrate with you. Ditch people who behave strangely when great things happen and when you have good news (that’s a HUGE one!). And when you’re unsure of what to do just keep working the answer will always present itself.
How would your best friend describe you?
Funny (I hope) and creative. Fiercely loyal, and great in a crisis.
What’s next for Young Summer in 2024?
I’m already working on the next record and we’re putting tour dates together now. And until the next record comes out I’ll keep reminding people that this one did. 🙂
What is your favorite healthy food?
I love making juice at home and dumping a ton of cayenne pepper into it. I don’t know if that counts as healthy food though.
And your favorite cheat food?
I don’t believe in cheat foods. I love to have a sweet treat every day. Currently I am eating the Coconut cake from DOAN’s Bakery in California (the famous one that Tom Cruise ships to everyone at Christmas). I got it for my birthday and it’s the best cake I’ve ever eaten.
How would you explain your fashion style?
Classic, chic, and fun.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Happiness is being devoid of worry and anxiety. Being loved unconditionally by trusted friends and family.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
David Lynch. He’s been such an inspiration to me in so many ways and especially for my self titled album that just came out. He’s had a huge influence on the way I express myself visually and just the understanding of what’s possible. He’s also a massive inspiration for just being yourself no matter what.
Best advice ever given?
I have two that always come to mind:
- If you’re running towards a decision you are more likely to make the wrong choice. Slow down. Take a breath. And make sure you’re thinking through everything.
- Luck favors the prepared.
Do you support any charities?
Yes, I love Unicef. They do incredible work around the world.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years?
Still writing and releasing music and touring. I would love to have directed many more music videos, and in 5 years hopefully a short film or full length. And, of course, writing songs with artists that admire.
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car or for karaoke?
Dixie Chicks “Goodbye Earl”
What do you think of social media?
I think it can be a tool for good, but that it should be thought of as fire in terms of it warming you, but also having the ability to burn you. The potential is there for connection and being able to have people hear my music that wouldn’t have but you also open the door for the less positive elements of it which can be pretty detrimental to the creative process and my mental health. I think it’s something to be careful with and to only be using if it’s additive to your life. It’s something that has the ability to be incredibly positive and incredibly negative and it’s up to the user to decide what their experience will be.
Where can we follow you?
Spotify / YouTube / TikTok / Instagram
Quote: My quote for this year 🙂
“I am larger, better than I thought; I did not know I held so much goodness.
All seems beautiful to me.
Whoever denies me, it shall not trouble me; Whoever accepts me, he or she shall be blessed, and shall bless me.” -Walt Whitman
Movie: Beetlejuice or The Thing (1982)
Tv Series: Ghosts (The UK Version!)
Favorite Food: Chocolate croissants
Travel Destination: London
