By Nicholas Jason Lopez
Over a short time, Krysta Youngs has already co-written smash hits like “ON” for BTS on their album ‘Map Of The Soul: 7’ (which hit #1 on the Billboard 200 Charts in its first week and reached platinum in 2020) and accumulated millions of streams and earned accolades in the dance world, with her music featured on “Keeping Up With The Kardashians” and MTV’s “The Real World.”
An unorthodox approach to songwriting and devotion to honesty has made Youngs a truly one-of-a-kind artist, with the recent release of the official lyric video for “FUCK ME” only set to continue her momentum.
The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with Youngs about “Love Me” and more.
Music Bugle – How have you been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?
Krysta Youngs – I had COVID over Christmas and I’m still dealing with the aftermath of not being able to taste or smell, so in that way, it’s affected my day-to-day life. I can’t smell the coffee brewing in the morning, taste the food I put into my mouth or enjoy smelling my own perfume and to be completely honest, I kind of miss smelling my dogs’ bad breath. (Laughs) Other than that, I’m grateful for the pandemic in a weird way, because it’s slowed me down, made me realize what’s really, really important in life and given me an opportunity to look within and become a better person.
Music Bugle – Have you been working on any new music?
Krysta Youngs – I sure have! I’m planning my next single release soon for a song I wrote and produced called “My Fears.” I’m so proud of myself for finishing it. Producing is something I’ve been toying with and I’m excited to share it! This year is the year of “releases”… I’m going to be putting so much music out and it’s invigorating. I can’t wait!
Music Bugle – What inspired your latest song “FUCK ME”?
Krysta Youngs – I wrote “FUCK ME” in the bathtub when I was right in the middle of a relationship I knew wasn’t right for me. She was the first girl I had ever been with and I knew we were probably better off as friends, but I didn’t want it to end. I remember getting into the bathtub that night thinking about it and I literally said, “Fuck me” out loud. Then, I grabbed my phone and voice memo’d the song and it was pretty much done in 30 minutes. I love that song because it’s so raw and honest and exactly what I was feeling in that moment. Plus, “fuck” is one of my favorite words, so it’s a win-win.
Music Bugle – Does social media help or hurt musicians?
Krysta Youngs – I think social media helps a ton, depending how you use it. You can reach out to anyone and I’ve formed so many genuine relationships that started from a simple DM on Instagram. The only thing I will say is that “comparison is the thief of all joy,” so if social media impacts you negatively, take a break and take some time to realize how dope and unique you are.
Music Bugle – Where do you go when you need to escape?
Krysta Youngs – Palm Springs or Joshua Tree are my go-to places. They’re close enough where I can skip town for one night, but far enough away that I feel like I’m on vacation. Palm Springs feels like a time warp, in a good way and I really enjoy that. I recently stayed overnight in a spaceship called “Area 55” in Joshua Tree. It was incredible and I totally recommend going!
Music Bugle – What’s a quote that motivates you to keep doing what you do?
Krysta Youngs – “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t — you’re right,” from Henry Ford.
Music Bugle – What has been your biggest challenge lately?
Krysta Youngs – My biggest challenge has been accepting that as I move forward with my artist career, there will be some songwriting opportunities I’ll have to turn down. I’m the type of person who likes to give 100 percent in everything I do and there’s only so much time in a day. Releasing my own music and writing for and with other artists I absolutely love makes me feel like I’m living the dream. Do what you love and the bi-product of that will be success. That’s what I think!
Music Bugle – Who are you listening to right now, music-wise?
Krysta Youngs – I’ve been listening to a lot of lo-fi playlists on Spotify because it relaxes me and also a lot of audio books. I’m super into the law of attraction, so I’ve been listening to Neville Goddard, Vadim Zeland, Napoleon Hill, Florence Scovell Shinn and Joe Dispenza, but when I’m in my car, it’s always Rap Caviar!
Music Bugle – Away from music, what’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
Krysta Youngs – I’m a neat freak. Borderline obsessive, sometimes. (Laughs)
Music Bugle – What’s something that you wish happened more in today’s music industry?
Krysta Youngs – I wish people would stop comparing themselves. It’s not a competition. We’re all in this together, so let’s build each other up instead of tearing each other down.
