Exclusive Interview: Penelope Talks “Week 10” Music Video, Tapping Into Her Vulnerability, and More

Penelope is a rising singer-songwriter who has channeled the adversities she’s faced in life into her craft. Her timeless lyrics and sound have connected with thousands of listeners around the world and made them feel seen and heard.

Earlier this year, she released an empowering single titled “Week 10,” which finds the gifted artist breaking free from societal standards.

Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to speak with Penelope about tapping into her vulnerability, the “Week 10” music video, and more.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Penelope: I struggled with social anxiety, so I’d write out my emotions, which translated into poetry at ten, which later became songwriting at about twelve. My passion came from how the writing would get me out of those dark places I’d visit so frequently involuntarily (depression).

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Penelope: Staying out of those dark places is my absolute biggest influence. It’s easy to go back into darkness; it’s a fight to stay out.

PC: You’ve been incredibly open about the adversities that you’ve faced in life with your songwriting. Has that also come naturally to you?
Penelope: Sometimes it does come naturally. At times it’s a challenge to put into words.

PC: Is it ever a scary prospect to be this vulnerable?
Penelope: It’s always challenging to be vulnerable, however, I’d rather tell you about my weaknesses and/or struggles to refrain from them being used against me. There’s power in being vulnerable proactively and not reactively.

PC: You have an empowering new single out now. Tell us about “Week 10” and the inspiration behind it.
Penelope: “Week 10” was honestly about enjoying your sexuality and not shying away from what your body desires. If he’s not married, he’s not off-limits. Not for Penelope anyway.

PC: You’re also releasing a cinematic music video for the song. Tell us about the creative process and how you came up with the concept.
Penelope: I love thriller movies, and I don’t mind being the villain. Most of my songwriting skills have now translated into theatrical performances because I don’t want to just leave you with a catchy phrase—I want to leave you with an amazing performance. I’m always dramatic, so to elaborate an ending comes naturally.

PC: As we look ahead to the rest of 2022, what can fans expect from you?
Penelope: I’ll be on tour this summer, finishing at the end of August. Also, new singles, new performances with theatrics, and hopefully wrapping up the year with an album.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Penelope: The 1975 and Trace Adkins.

PC: First album you bought?
Penelope: Breaking All the Rules by She Moves.

PC: First concert you attended?
Penelope: Lil’ Bow Wow around 2003 or 2004.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Penelope: Boyz II Men: Evolution. This album taught me to love, lose, and be okay with it all within two hours.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Penelope: Madison Square Garden.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Penelope: Definitely Paramore, Avril Lavigne, Toni Braxton, Babyface, Pink, Teddy Swims, and Keith Sweat.

To keep up with Penelope, follow her on Instagram and Spotify.