Rebecca Lucy Taylor, the acclaimed musician known as Self Esteem, has shared remarkably personal insights in a revealing new interview that covers everything from her career transformation to intimate life details.
From Slow Club to Solo Success
The 39-year-old artist, originally from Rotherham in South Yorkshire, spent ten years as part of the duo Slow Club before embarking on her solo journey as Self Esteem. This bold move proved transformative, earning her nominations for the prestigious Mercury prize, NME Awards and Brit Awards for her second album Prioritise Pleasure in 2021.
This year marked another significant achievement when Taylor received the Ivor Novello Visionary award, cementing her status as one of Britain's most important musical voices. She simultaneously released both a book and album titled A Complicated Woman, demonstrating her multifaceted artistic talents.
Personal Revelations and Career Reflections
When asked about her happiest period, Taylor revealed it was between ages five and ten, before she became fully aware of gender expectations. "When I was just playing out and I didn't realise I was a girl," she explained. "Before my boobs came in, basically."
Her greatest fear? "Having no way of earning money" - a concern that likely resonates with many artists in the current economic climate. Taylor didn't shy away from criticising the music industry either, expressing disappointment at being consistently labelled "underrated" despite feeling she's "done my end of the bargain."
Love, Regrets and Future Plans
The singer was remarkably candid about her personal life, describing her sex life as frequent and "one thing I don't compromise on." She expressed regret about relationships between ages 23 and 33, noting "It feels crazy to me that I ever thought that I could be anyone's girlfriend before I figured out the things I've now figured out."
In a surprising revelation, Taylor shared that her perspective on motherhood is evolving. "My mind is changing about being a mum," she confessed. "I got a dog and the way I feel about it is a lot, and I realise maybe I would want to be a mum."
Cultural Icons and Career Highlights
When asked what extinct thing she'd bring back to life, Taylor immediately chose George Michael, highlighting her appreciation for the late music legend. She also expressed deep admiration for actress Julie Hesmondhalgh, describing her as "the kindest, brightest, most truthful woman."
Looking ahead, Taylor is set to star in David Hare's Teeth 'n' Smiles at London's Duke of York's theatre in March, demonstrating her expanding artistic range beyond music.
The interview also touched on lighter moments, including her "most treasured possession" - a childhood glow-worm that's remained by her bed since infancy - and her self-described traits as "Big, shy, angry."
Taylor's journey from Rotherham to critical acclaim represents a compelling story of artistic evolution and personal growth, with her honest reflections providing rare insight into the realities of life as a successful musician in today's industry.
