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How did you start your queer, female & non-binary indentifying indie rock band, Razor Braids?
I created the band in response to my experience in life as a woman. At the time I was really struggling at work and in general with sexism— walking out of the house sexism was everywhere and I wanted to create a space for myself where I felt safe and could talk about things that are important to me that were of my experience. I wanted to surround myself with like-minded humans. So I started that— it went through a few iterations, but at the end of 2019 we landed with this iteration— Janie, Jilly, Hannah and myself.
What's your favorite part about the New York creative community?
I’m originally from Nashville, Janie’s originally from Memphis, Jilly’s from Chicago, and Hannah is from right outside the city. So we were all really fortunate to grow up in creative cities and environments that support creative outlets, but there is nothing like New York. The energy, the level of talent, and the level of competition— it encourages you to really dig in and try to pump out your best material. Also, I think unlike Nashville or even Memphis, the city encourages uniqueness and individuality. Also, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention historically how special the city is to rock ‘n roll, and it’s cool to be walking the same street that your idols walked and performing at venues that your idols performed at.
What's inspiring you right now?
Depression, jk. Truly my bandmates inspire me and just the simple idea that I get to wake up and make music with people that I love and who respect me. We have fun together and that is the focus. Also the prospect of getting to do bigger and better things— just pushing forward and being on a team. In terms of songwriting, I think a lot of the material right now is hope for things to come, or positive flirtation or a crush. I feel like we talk about vulnerability so much but this time it’s like, okay, bad stuff has happened before, but we’re not gonna let it rob what we have moving forward. We want more and we deserve it.
Hollye Bynum , Janie Peacock, Jilly Karande , Hannah Nichols
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Spotify
@razorbraids on Instagram
www.razorbraids.com