Suki Waterhouse Discusses Musical Inspirations in Recent Song Shuffle

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. Exploring Musical Influences
4. The Broader Impact of Music on Personal Expression
5. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Suki Waterhouse shares her diverse musical inspirations in a recent episode of Rolling Stone's Song Shuffle.
• The singer expresses admiration for contemporary artists like Doechii, Waxahatchee, and TOPS, highlighting their influence on her own music.
• Waterhouse humorously reflects on her musical journey and the process of songwriting, detailing her experiences and interactions with other musicians.

Introduction

In a rapidly evolving music landscape, artists often cite peers as key influencers shaping their creative trajectories. Suki Waterhouse, a musician and actress known for her ethereal voice and eclectic style, recently participated in Rolling Stone's Song Shuffle, where she explored the tracks that resonate most with her life and artistry. During the discussion, Waterhouse revealed a particularly impactful artist in her life: Doechii, whose song "Denial Is a River" prompted her to embrace a lighthearted, carefree attitude while enjoying her time in New York City. This candid reflection on her musical journey not only highlights contemporary artists but also offers a glimpse into how personal experiences and friendships intertwine within the creative process.

Exploring Musical Influences

Discovering Doechii

Waterhouse's musical journey began with "Denial Is a River" by Doechii, an artist gaining recognition for her unique blend of hip-hop and R&B. Describing a recent stroll through the streets of New York, Waterhouse captured the transformative power music can hold during serendipitous moments. As she recounted her experience, it became clear that her admiration for Doechii transcended mere fandom; it highlighted a profound connection to the music that inspires her.

"I was walking around the street and I just had a couple of hours to be by myself and really savor Doechii," Waterhouse shared. "And then I just started texting everybody being like, 'Doechii Doechii Doechii Doechii. Have you heard every single Doechii song? These songs are incredible.'"

This enthusiasm for Doechii represents not only an appreciation for innovative sound but also for the freedom of expression that her music encourages. Waterhouse jokingly conveyed her aspirations to emulate Doechii’s style, emphasizing the stark contrast between her own more melancholic songwriting approach.

Waxahatchee and Musical Kinship

Following her moment with Doechii, Waterhouse moved on to play "Right Back to It" by Waxahatchee, the project of Katie Crutchfield. Crutchfield, known for her poignant lyrics and intimate songwriting, has become a significant influence for many emerging artists. Waterhouse described Waxahatchee as one of her favorite bands, positioning Crutchfield as one of her top writing heroes.

"I mean, Waxahatchee is probably one of my favorite bands," Waterhouse explained, revealing her admiration for Crutchfield's artistic insights and emotional depth. “I feel like — I’ve never met her, but I feel like we’re connected.”

This feeling of connection is potent within the music community, where shared experiences and emotions often knit artists closer together. Waterhouse's reflections underscore the communal nature of music creation and appreciation, where listeners turn to relatable artists for solace and inspiration.

The Influence of TOPS and Beyond

Waterhouse’s musical exploration continued with a nod to TOPS, where she recalled performing “Anything” with vocalist Jane Penny during a tour stop in Toronto. This experience exemplified the collaborative spirit within varying music genres, where performances become shared narratives, frequently expanding the artist's reach and connection with their audience.

"The energy from performing those songs live is just incredible, and it's even better when I can do it with artists I admire," Waterhouse remarked, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in modern music.

In her interview, she also took a moment to highlight Kim Deal, of The Breeders and Pixies fame, mentioning a song of hers that stands out in her memory. Deal has continuously influenced generations of musicians, representing a timeless appeal rooted deeply in indie and alternative rock.

Personal Reflections and Future Directions

Waterhouse concluded her musical shuffle session by reflecting on her current work, particularly her single “Dream Woman." The song reflects her ongoing journey through music creation. It was initially a piece that she struggled to finalize but gained purpose when Lena Dunham reached out looking for a song for an upcoming project.

"I was working on it a while ago and I couldn’t quite figure it out. And then Lena Dunham contacted me... and said, ‘Do you have a song that I could have for the show?’" Waterhouse shared, excited about how unexpected requests can reinvigorate an artist's perspective on their work.

This narrative reinforces the unpredictable nature of artistic inspiration and the valuable connections made through shared interests and collaborations within the industry.

The Broader Impact of Music on Personal Expression

Music serves as a powerful force for artists, shaping their journeys in unexpected ways. For Waterhouse, her recent reflections during Song Shuffle offer a snapshot of her evolving inspirations and the myriad influences that guide her. This conversation illuminates how contemporary artists, through their unique sounds and perspectives, create a fabric of shared cultural expression, allowing musicians and fans to feel connected in their experiences.

Waterhouse's narrative also serves as a reminder that the music industry is not merely about the final product—it's about the experiences that shape artists and the relationships they build along the way. It can influence thoughts, evoke emotions, and foster creativity, all while reflecting an ever-changing cultural landscape.

FAQ

Who is Suki Waterhouse?

Suki Waterhouse is a British model, actress, and singer-songwriter. She has gained recognition for her music career alongside her successful modeling and acting endeavors.

What is Rolling Stone's Song Shuffle?

Song Shuffle is a series produced by Rolling Stone that features artists discussing their favorite songs and musical influences. Participants share insights about their personal connections to various tracks and what they mean to them artistically.

Who is Doechii?

Doechii is a rising American rapper and singer known for her eclectic style and innovative music, which often blends hip-hop with elements of R&B.

Why is Waxahatchee significant in today's music?

Waxahatchee, fronted by Katie Crutchfield, is celebrated for its deeply personal lyrics and influential indie rock sound. The band's ability to connect with listeners through relatable themes has garnered a loyal following.

What was the purpose of Suki Waterhouse's mention of Lena Dunham?

Lena Dunham reached out to Waterhouse regarding her new project, expressing interest in a song from Waterhouse's catalog. This interaction exemplifies how collaborations and networking can shape an artist's career and present new opportunities.

What does Suki Waterhouse's playlist reveal about her musical style?

Her playlist reflects a diverse range of influences, showcasing her appreciation for genres such as indie rock, hip-hop, and contemporary R&B, while highlighting her inclination toward artists who share an emotional and personal approach to songwriting.

What themes does Waterhouse explore in her own music?

Waterhouse often dives into themes of intimacy, self-discovery, and emotional vulnerability in her songwriting, resonating with listeners through relatable and thought-provoking lyrics.

By embracing her varied influences, Waterhouse demonstrates the interconnectedness of today’s artists, a testament to the evolving narrative of music as a shared cultural journey.