Lauren Mayberry, the lead vocalist of Glasgow band Chvrches, has been open about her struggles with finding her voice in music. Since the band’s formation in 2011, Mayberry has been frontwoman, topping festival bills and album charts with her signature sound.
However, as she reflects on the past decade, Mayberry reveals that she often felt like she was walking on eggshells to please others. The pressure to conform weighed heavily on her, particularly during a 2019 tour of Australia where she discovered her bandmates had made separate plans without her.
“I feel like I twisted myself into a pretzel sometimes to make everyone happy,” Mayberry says. “Then I’d look back and think, ‘And were you happy?’ Not really, but I was keeping the peace.”
The experience led Mayberry to consider leaving the band, but Covid-19 intervened, allowing her to reassess her role in Chvrches. She eventually took a bold step, signing a new record deal with her bandmates, ensuring her voice is heard on the band’s latest album.
The album, titled “Fiction,” marks a departure from Chvrches’ industrial sound. Instead, Mayberry delves into darker, more personal themes, such as music industry sexism and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships.
One standout track, “Oh, Mother,” showcases Mayberry’s emotional vulnerability, with lyrics inspired by her own family struggles. The song is a stark contrast to Chvrches’ usual sound, yet it’s a testament to Mayberry’s growth as an artist.
When asked about the album’s reception, Mayberry notes that some critics have been harsh, saying she “still sounds like someone finding their feet.” However, she’s learned to compartmentalize criticism, focusing on the positive impact her music has had on fans’ lives.
As Chvrches continues to evolve, Mayberry remains committed to embracing her authenticity. Her vulnerability and empathy for her audience have earned her a loyal following, cementing her place as one of the most compelling voices in pop music today.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy7k830zdejo