The inspiration for "Gucci" came from a place of insecurity. Feeling as if I’m not good enough or attractive enough. The verses are filled with the struggle of expressing those emotions honestly and instead I resort to a pessimistic, sarcastic, in-your-face kind of tone. The tune carries a dark vibe, but by the end of the song I realize I’ve been swayed by all the illusions and distractions in the world that have steered me away from making an authentic connection with myself. I accept my insecurities and can turn them into confidence. Beauty lies within. We are all Gucci.Listen to "Gucci" below:
AF: It’s been five years since your last album, Baby, Now We're Even. What have you been up to?
Rachel Goodrich: Man, time flies! I actually met a boy in between that time and wrapped my world around his heart... which has been totally rad. But I lost sight and I’m actually sitting on a couple of albums I never released. I’ve been adventuring, writing and shelving music but finally feel really excited about these new tunes and I’m putting them out while they feel fresh!
AF: You’re an LA transplant, having moved cross country from Miami. Do you still live in Venice? How does the city inform your music writing?
RG: Yes, I am still in the Venice area. Well, the beach in general has always been a main source of circulation and freedom... creating a non-judgmental space for me to just breathe and be myself. Venice is wild... it’s the beach that keeps me sane.
AF: I was psyched to see you opened for Ezra Furman a few years back. What LA show has been your favorite so far?
RG: You were there? Cool! My favorite LA show was probably a recent show I played over at The Moroccan Lounge. It was my first time playing these new songs with the new band. It felt so raw and so fresh. I love playing with my new band. Some of the raddest individuals I’ve ever met.
AF: What music do you currently have on rotation?
RG: Currently spinning Parliament-Funkadelic, Erykah Badu, The Meters and The Grateful Dead.
AF: “Gucci” is a sexy song. It feels light years away from the sweet ukulele sound of “Light Bulb.” What inspired this new direction?
RG: I’m not sure! I’ve always kind of messed around with making beats and talking shit... it’s fun for me. But I guess it’s also pretty sexy.
AF: What producer did you work with on this single? Any collaborations?
RG: I recorded this track with Matt Linesch (the boy...reference question 1) at his studio, Infinitespin Records, in Van Nuys.
AF: You’re known for employing a wide array of instruments (guitar, ukulele, kazoo) in your music. Has this eclectic feel continued on the new album?
RG: I think so! Definitely incorporating some fun sounds and using some of the same instruments I featured on my first album, Tinker Toys.
AF: What can someone expect from a Rachel Goodrich performance? Other than some “shake-a-billy” dance moves?
RG: Some funky fresh tunes maaan. Good vibes and vibrant colors.
Watch out for Rachel's new album, set to drop in summer 2019.
