Photo Credit: Clarissa Villondo

As ‘90s pop culture continues to be celebrated and rebooted, we must not forget the incredible decade that came before it. This is why I’m so glad artists like Bryce Bowyn is keeping those ‘80s vibes alive and well in music today. We talked about not only the influence of the Material Girl but also dug deep into some more serious topics like leaving a bad relationship. So sit back and enjoy all that is Bryce Bowyn.

Kendra: Only a few seconds into “Bye Bye” and your love of the ‘80s was apparent. I too have a special place in my heart for music from that era because every time I hear a song from then on the radio I’m like, okay – but they just sound like they were having a blast. With that, would you say the music of the ‘80s is what initially inspired you to get into music yourself?

Bryce Bowyn: Music from the ‘80s is all about the huge choruses and undeniable melodies. I think that’s what draws me to that sound, and I think that’s why it’s so fun to listen to.

For me, it’s always about a sticky hook – something easy to sing along to and that gets stuck in your head.

Kendra: While “Bye Bye” does have this grandiose ‘80s synth vibe to it, it’s actually about sort of ripping the band-aid off a bad relationship and peacing out. What’s your advice to those out there who are staggering on leaving a relationship that’s truly run its course?

Bryce Bowyn: Run and don’t look back, baby! If you’ve thought about leaving more than once, it’s time to go. I think that’s true in a lot of circumstances, even outside of romance.

Kendra: This single is one of half a dozen that will be on your February 2022 EP, ‘A Rosy Retrospect.’ Was the foundation of this record built around the woes of a relationship?

Bryce Bowyn: In some ways, yes, but mostly it’s about my relationship with myself – or rather my younger self. Songs like “Ruthless” and “Bye Bye” are about relationships from a period when I was living recklessly and thought I was having the time of my life. In retrospect, I was being really destructive. This entire collection of songs investigates those moments and forces me to wonder how much fun I was truly having. And they’re bangers.

Kendra: Speaking of woes, like myself you were not a fan of who was in the White House after the 2016 election. Being an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community as well as mental health, it’s not hard to see why because well, 45 was A LOT in regards to both. You’ve even noted that all of that, on top of the pandemic made hope hard to find. Other than music, what pushed you towards keeping your head right in recent years?

Bryce Bowyn: With the state of the world, it’s very tempting to get stuck. And when you’re stuck, that’s when the depression sinks in and you become super critical of yourself. For me, I have to remember to keep moving, always. If you’re putting one foot in front of the other and making progress, that’s success. It doesn’t matter if it’s small steps. You have to give yourself grace. We all are moving at our own pace, but if we keep at it – whether that’s music, art, or whatever “it” may be – the momentum will get you where you are meant to go.

Kendra: Back to the music, if you could travel back to the year MTV began and play “Bye Bye” in-between two videos from that time – which two do you feel would be great bookends for your song?

Bryce Bowyn: Ooh, good question. I’m gonna go with “Rapture” by Blondie and “La Isla Bonita” by Madonna. Sonically, they’re both huge influences of mine. And two powerful women that I love so much. Iconic blondes. Great videos.

Kendra: Since it’s January, I’m asking everyone…not for a lengthy resolution, but for a resolution, a goal they have for this month. What’s yours?

Bryce Bowyn: Finally perform some of these new songs live. I wanna dance with everyone!

Kendra: Lastly, other than the new EP that’s out in February, what are your plans for the first wave of the new year?

Bryce Bowyn: You can count on more visuals, performances, and music for sure. I always have something up my sleeve.