Last week, Lyn Lapid released her debut album BUZZKILL. The collection of 12 songs follows her 2023 EP to love in the 21st century.
Raised by Filipino immigrant parents outside of Baltimore, she first gained online fame with the viral hit “In My Mind” in 2021. Barely out of high school, Lapid found herself living her dreams three time zones away in Los Angeles. She misses her family, but the commitment is paying off.
Lapid’s approach has gradually shifted from bedroom pop production to a more organic sound tailored for live performances. Fans will get a chance to hear the new songs when the BUZZKILL World tour kicks off next May 6 in Berlin. The North American leg starts May 20 in Orange County, Calif.
Right before the album’s release, we met up with Lapid at Flamingo Lounge Salon in Los Angeles for a photoshoot and a conversation about her music.
How does it feel to have your debut album out in the world?
I am so relieved. The lead up was so overwhelming, and honestly, the work has just begun. But I am happy that at least the music is out.
What was your favorite track to record?
“take me as I am” was a lot of fun. Layering all the vocal stacks was so cool, because I usually take the driver’s seat for that. Vocal production is right up my alley and even when a song is very minimal instrumentally, I will still try to add as many little vocal ear candies as I can.
What track was the most difficult to get right?
“forecast” was a bit of a challenge. That song is definitely on the more chill side, so I think I was trying to figure out how to make it sound more interesting sonically, or at least more dynamic and less linear throughout the song. I definitely think the melodies and the use of my lower range shine the most in that song.
What was the biggest difference between recording this and to love in the 21st century?
to love in the 21st century was a collection of experiences between me and a couple of friends about situationships we had been in. BUZZKILL is completely just me, and my experiences moving to a new city by myself and the journey to finding a sense of belonging. Being able to hide behind the fact that I was writing about other people’s experiences on to love in the 21st century lowered the stakes and pressure in writing sessions. I think writing BUZZKILL was emotionally draining, but also healing at the same time because these are solely my experiences. It was uncomfortable to open about these emotions to producers and co-writers in the room, but it felt more rewarding when finishing these songs.
You’re about to start a big headline tour. What’s your ratio of nervous vs. excited?
I’d say I’m 0% nervous, 40% excited, 60% stressed. I’m excited to see my fans again and play the live set for them. At the same time, I can’t help but be worried if I’ll be able to stay healthy on tour. I have the weakest immune system to be very honest. Also selling tickets is hard. I’m just going to do my best.
What’s your favorite thing about touring besides the shows themselves?
I think it’s the little moments off stage. Laughing and hanging out with my band past our bedtime, seeing the people that resonate with my music face to face. And I feel like that will be extra rewarding with this run and this album, because this album is so vulnerable.
How did growing up around Filipino culture affect who you’ve become?
The sense of need for community and love for music has always influenced my identity. I think those are key aspects in Filipino culture. I use my passion for music to create a genuine community of people who can feel seen in whatever they’re going through.
Who are some of your songwriting idols?
Olivia Dean has been my top influence recently. Sarah Kinsley is also a phenomenal lyricist and channels so much emotion into her production.
What have you been listening to lately?
Keoni Usi, Sarah Kinsley, and Olivia Dean. Check them out. They are phenomenal.
BUZZKILL WORLD TOUR DATES:
Europe & The UK
May 6 // Berlin, DE // Kantine am Berghain
May 8 // London, UK // Colours Hoxton
May 9 // Manchester, UK // The Deaf Institute
May 11 // Cologne, DE // YUCA
May 12 // Amsterdam, NL // Paradiso
North America
May 20 // Santa Ana, CA // The Observatory – Orange County
May 21 // San Francisco, CA // The Fillmore
May 24 // Seattle, WA // The Crocodile – Showroom
May 25 // Vancouver, BC // Fortune Sound Club
May 28 // Salt Lake City, UT // The Complex – Grand Room
May 30 // Denver, CO // Marquis Theater
June 1 // Minneapolis, MN // Fine Line
June 3 // Chicago, IL // Lincoln Hall
June 5 // Toronto, ON // The Axis Club
June 7 // Boston, MA // Paradise Rock Club – Music Hall
June 8 // Philadelphia, PA // Brooklyn Bowl
June 10 // New York, NY // Irving Plaza
June 11 // Washington, DC // 9:30 Club
June 13 // Charlotte, NC // Amos’ Southend
June 14 // Atlanta, GA // Center Stage – The Loft
June 16 // Orlando, FL // The Social
June 19 // Houston, TX // Warehouse Live – The Ballroom
June 21 // Austin, TX // Antone’s Nightclub
June 22 // Dallas, TX // Trees
June 25 // Phoenix, AZ // Crescent Ballroom
June 26 // San Diego, CA // The Observatory – North Park
June 28 // Los Angeles, CA // El Rey Theatre
