Becky and the Birds

Thea Gustafsson, known professionally as Becky and the Birds, was born in the mid-1990s in Örebro, Sweden. Raised in a musically inclined family, her father, proficient in accordion, piano, and flute, introduced her to jazz and soul music from an early age. At seven, she began playing the violin, which led her to perform in orchestras and develop a strong foundation in classical music composition. This early exposure to diverse musical genres laid the groundwork for her eclectic sound.

Gustafsson's formal education in music continued at the Musikmakarna Songwriters Academy of Sweden, where she honed her skills in songwriting and production. Frustrated by her experiences with male producers and songwriters, she took control of her creative process, leading to the inception of her project, Becky and the Birds, in 2016.

Becky and the Birds emerged in 2016 as Gustafsson's platform for self-produced music that defies genre boundaries. Her self-titled debut EP in 2018 showcased a blend of alternative, indie electronic, and soul influences, earning critical acclaim for its innovative soundscapes and emotive vocals.

In 2020, she released the 'Trasslig' EP under the 4AD label, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile artist. The EP's title, meaning 'entangled' or 'messy' in Swedish, reflects the complex themes explored in her music. Tracks like 'Paris' and 'Wondering' received positive reviews for their introspective lyrics and experimental production.

Gustafsson's collaborations with artists such as Dijon, Seinabo Sey, and Låpsley have also contributed to her artistic growth, allowing her to explore new sonic territories and expand her musical palette.

In November 2024, Becky and the Birds released her debut album, 'Only Music Makes Me Cry Now', marking a significant milestone in her career. Entirely self-produced, the album is a testament to Gustafsson's creative autonomy and emotional depth. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, including a transformative breakup, the album delves into themes of heartbreak, healing, and self-discovery.

The lead single, 'When She Holds Me', released in June 2024, received praise for its ethereal sound and intimate lyrics. Other standout tracks like 'Anymore' and 'I Made My Baby Cry' showcase her ability to blend haunting vocals with innovative production techniques, creating a deeply immersive listening experience.

Critics have lauded the album for its raw emotion and sonic experimentation. SheBOPS Zine described it as 'a brave, exploratory record that invites listeners into a world of emotional release and sonic innovation.'

Becky and the Birds' music is characterized by its genre-defying nature, seamlessly blending elements of alternative, indie electronic, and soul. Her early exposure to jazz and classical music, combined with her formal education in songwriting and production, has resulted in a unique sound that is both experimental and accessible.

Gustafsson cites a diverse range of influences, including Bon Iver, whose intimate and atmospheric style resonates in her work. Her collaborations with artists like Dijon and Låpsley have also informed her approach to music, encouraging her to push the boundaries of traditional song structures and production techniques.

Her ability to incorporate personal experiences into her music, coupled with her innovative use of samples and ambient sounds, has set her apart as a distinctive voice in the contemporary music scene.

In addition to her recorded work, Becky and the Birds is known for her captivating live performances that blend music with visual artistry. Collaborating with the creative collective PH-ANY, she transforms the stage into an extension of her creative world. For instance, during performances supporting 'Only Music Makes Me Cry Now', the stage featured a bed representing the countless hours she spends producing music, adding a personal touch to the visual experience.

Her performances are not just about the music; they are immersive experiences that reflect her artistic vision and emotional depth. This commitment to visual storytelling has garnered her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

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