By Tana Coulon
The world’s hottest new supergroup, Boygenius, is taking the world by storm and everyone’s trying to remain “Cool About It.” The supergroup consists of three infinitely talented solo singer-songwriters; Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus. In January 2023, Boygenius shocked the internet by announcing three brand new songs and an album titled “The Record” after a long, five-year hiatus. Since then, Boygenius has successfully managed to make their mark in the music industry by blowing up the charts and reaching new heights never before seen by musicians.
The Record made its debut as the band’s first official full length album on March 31, 2023. In addition to the release, Boygenius sent their album to various record stores across the globe in order to hold listening parties a few days prior to the release, even surprising fans at the record store Amoeba Music in Hollywood (where this writer was in attendance). This album is a musical representation of the heartfelt deep relationship between the members with each song highlighting their emotions, talents, and raw feelings. Kicking off the album with a harmonious acapella, the band abruptly transitions into a world of various sounds ranging from rock tones to softly sung ballads. It’s no secret to anyone just how much these three individuals value one another. Evidently, friendship is a major theme embedded within the album. In a Rolling Stone interview, Bridgers stated, “We’re obsessed with each other. I like myself better around them.”
Since the album’s release, Boygenius has been displaying their art on tour. “The Boys” (as the Boygenius members are called) showed off their fresh looks consisting of three piece Gucci suits and jackets customized with patches chosen from each member. From fun fan interactions to mesmerizing live visuals, these three know how to put on a breathtaking performance to never be forgotten. At their concert in Tennessee, the world was introduced to Lucille Balls (Dacus), Shanita Tums (Baker) and Queef Urban (Bridgers). In protest of the anti-drag legislation in Tennesee, Baker, Bridgers, and Dacus performed in full drag for their concert. The band then prompted the audience to scream, “F–k Bill Lee!,” the man responsible for signing laws preventing minors from receiving gender-affirming care and preventing drag queens from performing in certain public spaces.
Not only did Boygenius release their debut album, they also released a three-part short film for their songs, “$20,” “Emily I’m Sorry,” and “True Blue,” titled, “the film.” The video was directed by the American actress Kristen Stewart. “The film” embarks on a journey which explores the returning theme of friendship, childhood experiences, and a striking monster truck show all in the same 14-minute video. Each section of the video highlights one member of the group although each member plays a significant role in each portion. Boygenius launched the short film at a premiere which took place at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles on March 30, 2023. The video is now nominated for Best Art Direction and Best Alternative at the VMAs.
Boygenius are legends in the making. These three gifted individuals work together flawlessly to hold their grip on the music industry. Beyond their exceptional achievements in the field of music, they strive to be role models for a younger generation of queer individuals who have the privilege of growing up with music which represents them. They are now deservingly nominated for a Grammy for Best Alternative Album and are playing a sold out show at Madison Square Garden this October. The future is filled with Boygenius and the everlasting impacts that they have implanted on the world, and the listeners they have touched with their music.