While Zoe Rex has always loved music and has always been musical, they only started taking it seriously when they were seventeen years old. Rex states that it was when a friend FaceTimed them and when she asked Rex to play a song after seeing an old guitar in the frame that they were inspired to learn something.
That song was “Love on the Brain” by Rihanna. Using a cut-off corner of a Forever 21 gift card as a pick, Rex fell in love with accompanying their music on guitar and finally began to create their own work.
Successes and Challenges
Rex says that although they found success in releasing GarageBand-level tracks on the popular music streaming site Soundcloud, they experienced obstacles surrounding their sense of worth.
“I say that because I am in a constant state of confusion in regards to me. The way that I’m perceived by myself is so important to me, but I don’t really care how the public sees me. Trying to give myself reasoning for things or my actions or or others’ holds me back more than anything.”
Rex describes this as a sort of “imposter syndrome” and adds that they’ve been their own “biggest hater and worst enemy,” but understands that others go through the same thing as well, especially when it comes down to possessing an androgynous appearance or persona.
Rex has worked on healing from past trauma through their music, adding that they “heal… through writing about [trauma], or making music that talks about it in a way that people can relate to.”
Music Video for “Jacob’s Ladder”
In July, Rex released the music video for their song “Jacob’s Ladder,” which takes listeners on a journey through the trials of exploring one’s identity while struggling with it. Set in dual locations of an opulent mansion and an abandoned home, Rex’s video features themes that some might find unsettling but that serve to drive the theme of their song home for listeners even more.
“I worked with my producer Jake Hixon, AKA HXN, [on the video], and we’ve worked together since I started making music,” Rex says, adding that there “wouldn’t be Zoe Rex” or “the Zoe Rex sound” without him.
Career Highlights and Aspirations for the Future
Playing at the Whisky A Go Go nightclub in West Hollywood, California, was one of Rex’s biggest highlights, adding that their dreams are to tour and play stadiums and small bars in the middle of nowhere. “Never [losing], or [giving] up my ability to have that duality” is important for Rex, especially when since they’re never afraid to take risks.
“I’m not afraid to screw up or make a ‘wrong move’ because everything is subjective, and I’d still be making music even if no one ever heard it.”
Above all, Rex believes that the lack of certainty in what they’re doing is what keeps people interested in their music. “Everyone can relate in some way, even if you don’t like me or my music, because sometimes I feel the same way about myself,” Rex says.
Rex’s story, as well as their perseverance through the traumas and trials of life, showcases not just their passion but their strength in overcoming the hardest parts of life, all while noting the power of music.
The post Zoe Rex on the Power of Identity and Music first appeared on The Source.
The post Zoe Rex on the Power of Identity and Music appeared first on The Source.
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