Hayley Williams is known to be outspoken on issues like sexism, racism, and bigotry. And even in the early days of her career, the Paramore lead vocalist faced much scrutiny simply for her identity.
Williams began her career with Paramore 20 years ago, when she was 16 years old. But even then, she understood that many women in music were subject to misogyny. In a conversation with producer Jack Antonoff as part of Rolling Stone’s “Musicians on Musicians” series published Thursday, Oct. 16., Williams shared how early criticisms of the band and its dynamics made her feel.
“I genuinely felt like I always got blamed for all the s**t that would go on in our band,” said Williams, “and I never knew if it was [because] I’m the singer. But also at the time, I’m a young girl, and people don’t understand young girls.”
Since the beginning of Paramore, Williams has been the only woman in the band. However, she carries her role with pride.
“At times, I wore that like a badge of honor,” Williams said. “‘I can handle this, and I want to protect the whole.’ But my attitude, whether it’s in the studio [or] the live setting, is I know what I like, and I want to contribute that to it. But I also just love when the vibe is good and everyone’s happy.”
Last month, Williams released her solo project Ego Death at a Bachelor Party, which addressed social justice issues, and contained a jab at a “racist country singer” — a line Williams later revealed was about Morgan Wallen.
When making this album, Williams approached it as if it was the last body of work she’d ever share.
“I made this record, and it kind of feels like it just exploded out,” she said. “It does feel right to put it out under my name. But I think I have to exercise saying that I feel like it’s the last record I’ll do under my name, and I feel proud of that.”
