When Rebecca Black first entered the spotlight as a teenager, her explosive rise to viral fame came with an overwhelming wave of attention, both positive and negative. More than a decade later, he transformed that initial experience into a platform for reinvention, proving that he is much more than a fleeting online sensation.
She now stands as an artist who has taken control of her own narrative. With the release of their latest single “TRUST!” and a performance at San Francisco's Portola Festival, takes a bold step into a new chapter.
We caught up with Black backstage to talk about his creative evolution, his love of DJing, and how he's turning the challenges of the past into fuel for his future.
From pop star to DJ: a multifaceted talent
While Black is known as a singer and performer, she has also been exploring the possibility of DJing. His recent debut on Boiler Room proved that he can turn heads on multiple platforms, despite his incendiary Effect on social networks.
When asked how he differentiates between these two characters, Black says, “As a performer, everything is planned, rehearsed. There's a story, a character, and I know exactly what I'm doing, from start to finish.”
DJing, however, offers a refreshing change of pace.
“Being a DJ, I can be flexible,” he explains. “I started six years ago at a friend's house because I loved reading a room, figuring out what works, and making it the best night for everyone there.”
For Black, DJing is about creating an environment where spontaneity reigns.
“I may arrive with an idea of what I want to do, but the stage always changes depending on the audience,” he explains. “It's less about performance and more about harnessing the energy in the room.”
Accepting vulnerability in “TRUST!”
The release of “TRUST!” It marks an important turning point in her career, showcasing not only her growth as a vocalist, but also her bravery in addressing vulnerability. For Black, releasing the song has been more than just adding another hit to his repertoire: it's a form of personal release.
“I wrote [“TRUST!”] It's been over a year,” he says, with palpable excitement. “From the moment we wrote it, everyone felt it was something special.”
“I feel like I've been carrying a huge weight,” he adds. “The further you get from your last project, the more you feel in this identity limbo.”
Black has found a way to channel that uncertainty into confidence, using his music as a vehicle for self-expression and exploration. His artistic evolution since the infamous “Friday” is clear, and his recent work is largely based on growth, resilience, and a deep appreciation of dance music.
The camp and glamor of “TRUST!”
Part of what makes “TRUST!” One of the most notable is its official music video, which takes place in a courtroom, a symbolic setting that reflects Black's own journey before the public.
“When I met with Olivia, the director, she brought up the idea of me being judged for going viral with 'Friday,'” Black reveals with a smile. “It was fun and very in line with the character I created for 'TRUST!'”
Filmed on a set that resembles an authentic California courthouse, the video is infused with campy glamor and satire, a signature Black approach that combines humor with depth.
“I always loved the idea of glamorous girls in ugly, unglamorous surroundings,” she explains, citing her references for the images, constantly judged by the court of public opinion.
The idea of being judged is deeply resonant for Black. She speaks candidly about how her life has felt under constant scrutiny since “Friday” went viral.
“I don't know if I've ever known what it's like not to be on trial,” he admits. “But taking that and turning it into something fun, into something empowering, was really cathartic.”
Looking forward to a new chapter
At 27 years old, Black has already lived many lives in the public eye. Born and raised in Irvine, California, she rose to fame at the age of 13 when her debut single “Friday” blew up the Internet. Although he was met with mixed reactions, ranging from viral fame to brutal criticism, Black has emerged on the other side stronger, more self-assured, and artistically liberated.
His latest album, let it burnpublished in February 2023, is a testament to that perseverance. The project represents Black's full acceptance of his identity as a queer artist and pop icon.
“This album is the most 'me' thing I've ever done,” he gushes.
As Black continues to push boundaries both musically and personally, one thing is clear: he is far from the one-hit wonder many initially considered him to be. Instead, she is diligently crafting a legacy built on resilience and authenticity, proving that the trials of public opinion can be transformed into something powerful, glamorous and, above all, fun.
“I've learned that taking myself the least seriously is sometimes the key to being taken seriously,” Black says with a chuckle. “And I'm okay with that.”
Follow Rebecca Black:
Instagram: instagram.com/msrebeccablack
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@msrebeccablack
UNKNOWN: x.com/msrebeccablack
Facebook: facebook.com/iamrebeccablack
Spotify: spoti.fi/37669UM
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