Robyn sits quietly for a moment. “Wow,” she says, “this is really deep.” It’s been eight years since this pop icon last released music. Life for her has changed dramatically since then. The 46-year-old Swedish artist recently became a single mother to her son, Tyko, conceived through IVF, and she’s been on a journey of self-discovery, reflecting on her childhood in a challenging music industry.
We chat in a cozy attic above a London recording studio about her new album, Sexistential. It’s all about vulnerability and being true to oneself. “It feels liberating to create again,” she shares, wearing a casual outfit and looking genuinely happy to be back.
Robyn has been a trailblazer in pop. Starting her career at just 14, she broke away from the traditional pop mold to establish her own label, showing a new path for artists. Many today, like Gracie Abrams and Lorde, credit her for influencing their work. When I mention her impact, she humbly shrugs it off.
Her earlier songs, filled with raw emotion, resonate with many. Her hit tracks have been featured in popular shows like Girls, cementing her place in pop culture. “Some people say Girls popularized my music, but I’d argue the reverse,” says Lena Dunham, the show’s creator.
Not just an artist for millennials, Robyn has a robust fan base among Gen Z, evident when she performed with Charli XCX at the O2 Arena. The crowd went wild, and Robyn was taken aback by their enthusiasm.
Today’s music landscape offers more freedom and diversity for female artists. “There’s less expectation for us to fit into a box,” Robyn notes, reflecting on the shifting industry. Yet, she still prefers a more authentic approach to her artistry, stepping away from mainstream commercial pop.
Robyn’s journey through motherhood and career was no easy feat. After the pandemic hit, she found herself unexpectedly back in the studio, excited yet overwhelmed with IVF. “It was a rollercoaster,” she admits. Motherhood has brought new challenges and joys. “Being a single parent is tough, but I’m grateful for the journey.”
The creative process behind Sexistential is inspired by her experiences with love, loss, and the complexities of dating while undergoing IVF. The title itself blends “sex” and “existential,” encapsulating her exploration of identity and relationships.
Through her music, Robyn dives into themes of loneliness and longing, often using bright beats to contrast heavy emotions. “I thought I’d move away from sadness, but embracing it has been liberating,” she reflects.
Having grown up in a creative family, Robyn feels her childhood shaped her artistic vision. Touring with her parents in a small theater group gave her a unique perspective on performance and creativity. Yet, entering the pop scene saturated with challenges was daunting. She faced a music industry culture that often objectified women. “It was intimidating,” she recalls.
Despite all the trials, Robyn carved her path. Leaving behind a restrictive contract in 2005 and establishing her own label felt like a victory. She invested in her artistry, determined to transform her experiences into something authentic.
Now, as a mother and an artist, she balances her time carefully. Building a life for Tyko while also pursuing her music has brought her joy and fulfillment. “It’s a juggle, but I’m more excited than ever about my music,” she says, looking forward to her upcoming tour.
With Sexistential, Robyn invites listeners into her world of complexities. “Life makes you question everything,” she shares with a smile. As she steps back into the limelight, Robyn demonstrates that embracing vulnerability and self-reflection paves the way for genuine artistic expression. The journey continues, and she’s ready for what’s next.
Check out her album, Sexistential, now available on all major platforms.
