Pop That Rocks
Interview and text by Joey Dizon
Not every pop song has to be upbeat, perky, or devoid of genuine emotion. Just ask London-based pop artist Tiggi Hawke. She’s known for blending sonically pleasing and infectious pop music with raw and honest lyrics, and it’s this unique combination that’s garnering attention.
Classically trained, Hawke’s musical journey began with a diverse range of influences, from Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani, and TLC to various boybands. As she grew, she also embraced her parents’ musical heritage, which included legends like the Rolling Stones and Johnny Cash. She fondly recalls her first rock concert experience with the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Another significant part of her journey was overcoming several mental health challenges.
In July 2023, Tiggi released her debut full-length album, Ascension. This album, conceived with a complete narrative in mind, features the standout track “Sadurday Night.” According to Hawke, this is the most upbeat song on the album and serves as an anthem for those who occasionally wallow in self-pity but ultimately choose to rise above their sadness.
PULP had the chance to chat with Tiggi about her early years and her recent music.
PULP: Your music has a unique blend of pop and edge, especially in tracks like “Sadurday Night.” Who would you say influenced this style during your formative years?
TH: Thank you! Growing up, my parents introduced me to a wide range of music, so I naturally absorbed some of their tastes, like The Rolling Stones and Guns N Roses. On a personal level, my music taste is eclectic. I enjoy a bit of everything, so I inevitably draw inspiration from numerous artists. Collaborating with other artists and songwriters is something I cherish because they bring their perspectives and musical nuances to the songs, something I couldn’t achieve on my own. Currently, my influences range from artists like Rina Sawayama, Tove Lo, and The Weekend.
PULP: What drives your songwriting these days? Have you noticed any changes in your songwriting process over time?
TH: I often draw from my personal experiences and those of people close to me. The emotions are more vivid for me, making them easier to articulate when they’re raw. My writing process is fluid; I prefer to let things flow naturally. Ideally, I’d start with a central concept or a key line in mind, building the song around that. Lately, I’ve been taking more time to reflect. Sometimes, after taking a break and revisiting a song, I’ll instantly find the perfect word or phrase that eluded me the day before. It’s surprising how often the answer is right in front of you; you just need a fresh perspective to see it.
PULP: With Ascension now out, what’s next for you?
TH: More music is on the horizon! I’ve been back in the studio, brainstorming ideas for a potential second album, which is exhilarating, especially so soon after Ascension’s release. I’m also performing live shows frequently. It’s my dream to tour outside of Europe and the UK, so I’m exploring those possibilities. I’m eager to share more music with my fans. In fact, I have a new single ready for release. So, stay tuned; there’s much more to come!
