The Rise of Rozzi

By Sydney Sadick

For Spotlight readers discovering you for the first time: Who is Rozzi—both as an artist and as a person?

Talking about myself is so much harder than singing about myself! I think I’m fun? And stubborn? And cozy? And emotional? But you’d have to ask my friends.

Music has clearly always been emotional for you. When did you first realize songwriting was how you wanted to tell your story?

I remember feeling excluded in preschool and spending the day making up songs about it. I guess, as you pointed out, even then it was emotional for me! I don’t think I’ve ever had a conscious thought about it; it’s just what I’ve always done.

You’ve collaborated with Kendrick Lamar and Nile Rodgers and toured with major artists like Maroon 5 and Kelly Clarkson. What have those experiences taught you about longevity and staying true to yourself in the music industry?

I’ve learned so many lessons. A few that come to mind: the importance of joy in making art, that authenticity is much more valuable than any external validation, and Kelly Clarkson has the best voice ever.

So much of your music explores relationships, identity, and self-discovery. What themes are you most drawn to writing about lately?

I think I might need to blow up my life in some way before I write another album. My album Fig Tree came at such a transitional moment for me; it’s hard to imagine something so major happening soon. Maybe I’ll have a baby or something and report back.

Who were your biggest musical influences growing up?

Fleetwood Mac, the Supremes, the Chicks, Christina Aguilera, Bob Dylan, the Beatles, Amy Winehouse, Björk. My parents love music, and I was lucky enough to hear it in every room of the house growing up.

Tell us about your latest project.

My new album, Fig Tree, is out! It’s a 14-track record, partially inspired by my favorite book, The Bell Jar, by Sylvia Plath. I recorded it in Los Angeles with my producer Mocky, and I have to say, I’ve never been prouder of anything I’ve made before.

We’re excited to have you perform at our fifth-anniversary party. What do you love most about the Hamptons?

Probably my nieces, who live there.

What has surprised you most about the music industry?

How I can feel both seasoned and brand-new at the exact same time.

Besides music, what currently inspires you the most?

I love to read. I read while I do my vocal warm-ups every day. After people started stopping me on the street to ask me for book recommendations, I started a book club. You can find us on Instagram at @WhatRozziReads.