Zara Larsson Opens Up About Embracing ‘Ugly Moments’
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In a recent exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Zara Larsson, the Swedish pop sensation, delved into the inspiration behind her latest single, “Pretty Ugly,” and shed light on her perspective of self-documentation during what she refers to as ‘ugly moments.’ The 27-year-old artist is gearing up for an upcoming tour alongside Tate McRae, marking a new chapter in her musical journey.
Larsson’s new single, “Pretty Ugly,” released on April 25, accompanied by a lively music video, serves as a fresh offering following her last album, Venus. Collaborating closely with the Grammy-nominated writer and producer MNEK, with whom she previously tasted global success with “Never Forget You” in 2015, Larsson shared insights into her creative process and the energy she aimed to infuse into her new music.
During the conversation with PEOPLE, Larsson discussed her approach to songwriting, highlighting the spontaneous and authentic nature of her collaboration with MNEK and other songwriters. She emphasised the importance of capturing raw emotions and translating them into powerful lyrics that resonate with her listeners.
The conversation also touched on Larsson’s views on digital manipulation tools like Facetune, where she expressed a cautious stance on their usage. Despite occasional touch-ups for imperfections, Larsson values authenticity and strives to present herself in a genuine light to her audience.
Reflecting on moments of feeling pretty or ugly, Larsson shared intimate details about her self-perception, revealing that she finds beauty in the rawness of waking up in the morning and the confidence boost she feels after a few glasses of wine. She highlighted the importance of embracing all aspects of oneself, even during moments of vulnerability.
Moreover, Larsson touched upon her unexpected TikTok sensation with the song “Symphony,” her reaction to Kelly Clarkson covering her track on a talk show, and the impact of her relationship with boyfriend Lamin Holmén on her music and personal growth.
As Larsson gears up to join Tate McRae on the Miss Possessive Tour, she expressed admiration for McRae’s work ethic and artistic evolution. Drawing inspiration from dance icons like Beyoncé, Larsson aims to elevate her performances and incorporate more choreography into her shows.
With a promising future ahead in the music industry, Larsson remains grounded in her journey, embracing both the pretty and ugly moments of her life. As fans eagerly await her upcoming projects, the pop star’s authenticity and vulnerability continue to shine through in her music and interviews, captivating audiences worldwide.