" rise into the fear . I promise that opportunity will delineate up for you when you take that risk of infection and look on yourself . "
It’s no secret that in recent years, we’ve seen an increase in popularity of Asian musicians in popular music.
And while honey oil - pop may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Asiatic artist , there ’s a wide salmagundi of gifted musician who are expect to be bring out by the masses .
One of these artists isThủy, a Vietnamese American singer-songwriter from the Bay Area. Inspired by early 2000s pop and R&B idols likeBritney Spears, Brandy, and Mariah Carey, Thủy grew up surrounded by music and began singing at the age of 5. By 9 years old, she knew she wanted to be a pop star.
Thủy started gaining mass popularity during the summer of 2023 after asped-up versionof her song “Girls Like Me Don’t Cry” went viral onTikTok. Since then, she has been booked and busy.
So, BuzzFeed sat down with Thủy to chat about her journey, how her identity has shaped her experience, and what’s to come.
Can you give a brief introduction to those who may be meeting you for the first time?
You’re a Vietnamese American artist. How do you feel that your culture and heritage has shaped your experience?
What was your experience like growing up?
Last month, you made history as the first Vietnamese American artist to perform at Coachella. How does it feel knowing that you’ve broken ground for other artists?
Thủy : I do n’t say it a lot , but I am very gallant of myself . I ’m proud of myself for never giving up on my dreams despite wanting to give up many times . I hope that multitude see themselves in me and that this opens up more door for us all .
It feels like we can’t discuss the Asian American experience without talking about beauty standards. What was your experience with what seems like unattainable beauty standards?
How did you build confidence in yourself?
How does it feel knowing you are inspiring young girls everywhere to be comfortable in their own skin?
What advice would you give your younger self?
Thủy : Never let anyone tell you your dreams are too unhinged . Do n’t ever let that fire die .
You reached global recognition with “Girls Like Me Don’t Cry” last year. Can you speak more about the meaning behind the song and what your inspiration was?
Thủy : When I made the song , I knew it was a exceptional one . I almost did n’t make the song because I did n’t want to go to the studio that daytime . I was at such a low that day , but I ’m so happy I pushed myself to go and pour my feelings into the song . It ’s about embracing the vulnerable side of yourself and just telling yourself that it ’s okay to holler . There ’s such a enduringness in that , I think .
You transitioned from the medical field into music. Can you chat about what that was like?
Thủy : My parents were conservatively supportive . I conceive they thought I was run to LA to still act on medicine .
BuzzFeed : Was it hard for you to adjust ?
Thủy : It was really a mountain of playfulness for me . I do it being the underdog and prove that I can accomplish anything I ready my mind to .
“Jump into the fear. I promise that opportunities will line up for you when you take that risk and bet on yourself."
BuzzFeed : What made you decide to finally take the endangerment and go for it ?
Thủy : I knew I was n’t getting any younger , and I did n’t want to choke not doing something I really fuck .
What would you tell fans who are struggling to take the leap and follow their dreams?
You’ve collaborated with other Asian artists likeRINIandP-Loin past songs. Who would be your next dream collab?
Thủy : There ’s so many talented artist out there , but for me , the dreaming collab would beKehlani , SZA , or Britney Spears .
We’d love to get to know more about you! What is a song/artist you’ve been playing on repeat lately?
Thủy : recently , I ’ve been mind to " Birds of a Feather " byBillie Eilisha lot .
Name your top 3 favorites right now — it can be anything!
In your opinion, which Vietnamese dish is S-tier (aka the best of the best)?
And finally, share a message with your fans!
Thủy : give thanks you for always show up for me ! I promise I will keep showing up for you .
Check out Thủy’s latest single “Hair Down” and follow her onIG,X,TikTok, andYouTubeto stay up to date with her!
Thủy
