Blondshell: The Indie Rock Sensation You Need to Know

Blondshell is the stage name of Sabrina Teitelbaum, a 25-year-old singer-songwriter based in Los Angeles, California. She is one of the most exciting and promising indie rock artists of 2023, with a catchy, confessional, and sometimes controversial style that draws inspiration from Britpop, grunge, folk, and pop.

How did Blondshell start her music career?

Blondshell’s musical journey began in New York City, where she was born and raised by her single father, a hedge fund mogul and NJOY chairman. She grew up listening to classic rock and attending concerts with her dad, who exposed her to legends like The Rolling Stones and Cher. She also developed a love for songwriting and performing at an early age, taking singing lessons, playing piano, and forming bands with her classmates.

Teitelbaum moved to Los Angeles in 2015 to attend the USC Thornton School of Music, where she majored in songwriting and studied various genres and styles. She dropped out after two years to pursue music full-time, adopting the name BAUM and releasing pop-leaning songs like “Hot Water” and “Effortless”. However, she soon felt dissatisfied with the direction of her music and decided to reinvent herself as Blondshell in 2022.

What are Blondshell’s songs about?

Blondshell debuted with the single “Olympus”, a fiery alt-rock anthem that showcases her powerful vocals and raw lyrics. The song received rave reviews from critics and fans alike, earning her comparisons to artists like Courtney Love, PJ Harvey, and Alanis Morissette. She followed up with more singles like “Kiss City”, a sexually explicit ode to Los Angeles nightlife; “Joiner”, a darkly humorous tale of drug addiction and violence; and “Salad”, a revenge fantasy about poisoning her friend’s abusive partner.

Blondshell’s self-titled debut album was released on April 7, 2023 via Partisan Records. The album features nine tracks that explore themes of identity, sexuality, trauma, anger, and empowerment. It also showcases Blondshell’s versatility as a musician, incorporating elements of acoustic guitar, piano, synth, and strings. The album received positive feedback from critics and listeners, who praised Blondshell’s authenticity, originality, and charisma.

How is Blondshell as a live performer?

Blondshell has also been making a name for herself as a live performer, having toured with acts like Suki Waterhouse, Horsegirl, and Porridge Radio. She has also performed at festivals like South by Southwest, Austin City Limits Music Festival, and on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Blondshell is known for her energetic and engaging stage presence, often interacting with the audience and delivering witty banter.

Why should you listen to Blondshell?

Blondshell is not afraid to speak her mind, express her emotions, and challenge the norms of the music industry. She is a woman who knows where her wounds are and instead of looking away, she studies them, cleans them, and sews them back up. She is Blondshell, and she is here to stay.