WRITTEN BY: RACHEL @ GRRRL MUSIC
PRESS CONFERENCE HOSTED BY: 1824
Towa Bird's journey with the electric guitar began at the age of 12, and she has since regarded it as a second voice, a direct conduit for her unfiltered self-expression, often channeled through electrifying and impeccably executed guitar solos. Now, at 23 years old, hailing from Hong Kong and of Filipino and English heritage, this singer/songwriter is poised to introduce her own original music to the world.
Towa Bird's musical creations embody a profound sentiment. She explains, "I grew up listening to so many male-gazey love songs, and it was important to put something out into the world that felt like the music I wanted for myself when I was a kid." Her music achieves precisely that, resonating with a finely crafted sound that strikes a unique balance between audaciousness and sensitivity. It is a sound that is both explosively vibrant while also exploring the delicate facets of queerness, identity, and the intricate landscapes of love.
Towa’s down-to-earth personality, mixed with elements of shyness, vulnerability, and playfulness, adds depth to her character and makes her relatable. Towa's representation is particularly significant for the queer and AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) communities, providing much-needed visibility and diversity in the music industry.
Her tracks "Wild Heart" and "Boomerang" evidently capture a youthful Jimi Hendrix vibe, showcasing her prowess and innovation on the guitar. Towa authentically embodies the essence of rock music, breathing fresh life into the genre with her unique style and energy. It's clear that she's making a meaningful contribution to the world of music and rock culture.
Towa Bird and Alexander 23 will be accompanying Reneé Rapp on her "Snow Hard Feelings Tour."
I had the opportunity to pose a question to Towa Bird during the press conference.
Q: What are some of your dream festivals/tour/venues to be apart of?
TOWA BIRD: When I first think of this ...Glastonberry Festival definately. There is another festival in Hong Kong - Clockenflap, sorta like an indie rock festival. It is one of the first indie rock festival that has taken place in Hong Kong. The Arctic Monkey’s headlined at some point, I also know the dude who produces it and started it….so it would be super cool to be apart of that lineup since its hometown and I was born there... it would mean the absolute world to be there and play there.”