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Lulu Simon comes from a long line of musicians. Maybe you’ve heard of Paul Simon and Edie Brickell? But, this rising singer-songwriter is carving her own lane and leaving her mark on the industry. Following the release of her debut EP, Lulu earn praise from Rolling Stone, PEOPLE, and Spotify. She’s following that success with the release of her latest single, “Strangers.” Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to chat with Lulu for a fun conversation.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Lulu: I’ve just always loved music. I grew up playing piano and taught myself to play guitar in seventh grade. I feel like I was always meant to make music. It was never even really a question for me, just an unspoken truth of mine.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Lulu: I think my older brother, Ade, has probably had the biggest influence on my career, simply because he has such amazing taste and an amazing ear. I have an understanding of the quality of music and lyrics because I’ve watched him achieve that for literally my whole life. He’s the best—there’s no one whose opinion matters to me more.

PC: You were initially a bit shy about sharing your craft and artistry. Was there a particular moment that helped you get over that hurdle?
Lulu: I think when I realized that my options were to either buck up and learn to be confident in my craft or give up my dream of making music, the choice was a pretty easy one to make. Also, I was a sociology major in college, so if we’re being honest, I have no clue what I’m even qualified to do.

PC: You’ve been open about the reality of the music industry and getting your start. If you could tell your younger self one piece of advice knowing what you know now, what would it be and why?
Lulu: I would definitely tell my younger self to stick to her guns, follow her intuition, and trust her ears. It’s really easy to get swept up in other people’s opinions, particularly if they’re older or more authoritative than you, but you have to hold your own opinion in the highest esteem and trust that if you like something, it’s worthwhile.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “Strangers.” What was the inspiration behind the song?
Lulu: I got myself into a bad situation where I was just letting this guy make me miserable and anxious, and I’m neither of those things. I ended up just getting annoyed that I ever gave that kind of power to a man—hell no! I wrote “Strangers” as a means of expressing myself, but also as a way to take back my power, to let him and anyone else know that I won’t let them walk all over me. But, on the off chance that I do, I will be writing a song about it and exposing you, so… [laughs]

PC: It’s your first release following your debut EP. How does this next body of work differentiate itself from your self-titled release?
Lulu: I think it would be really hard not to have a bit of a different sound as you grow up. I think the biggest difference between what I’m releasing now and what I’m going to release versus what I’ve already released is that I’m older; I think about things differently. I’m learning all the time. My tastes are changing all the time. I’m hopefully becoming more mature. [laughs]

PC: As we look ahead to the rest of 2020, what does the rest of the year hold for you?
Lulu: I’ve got a couple of songs I’m working on. I’m just writing all the time and trying to navigate making and releasing music during these heavy times. Hopefully, I’ll be able to get another song out before the year ends!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Lulu: I feel like my taste in music is so all over the place. I don’t think anyone would be surprised to find anything on there at this point.

PC: First album you bought?
Lulu: The first album I ever bought I think was A*Teens, I think? The CD itself looked like a disco ball, which is genius.

PC: First concert you attended?
Lulu: My first concert was Avril Lavigne when I was in second grade. She was so spunky and cool, wearing camo pants and a red t-shirt. Effortless.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Lulu: I feel like Carly Rae Jepsen’s Emotions probably has had the biggest influence on the type of music that I make now. It’s just literally so good and so catchy. The tracks are so sonically thick and it’s just banger after banger. Absolute pop perfection.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Lulu: Oh gosh, I don’t even know. I feel like it would be really cool to just perform at a music festival. I love that energy.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Lulu: Your own mirror! A good mirror and good lighting are essential for a good beat. You can’t leave that kind of thing up to chance.

To keep up with Lulu, follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Pick up or stream “Strangers” today.