Tegan & Sara on Never Giving Up
Summary
Kathleen Hanna hosts Tegan and Sara to discuss their 28-year career, exploring how early misogyny and homophobia fueled their drive to prove themselves. The duo reflects on their songwriting habits, vocal dynamics, and the evolution of their live performances, including a memorable stage-switching stunt. They also share stories about formative music discoveries, such as Smashing Pumpkins and Sublime, and the impact of seeing Peaches perform. The conversation concludes with their thoughts on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and their enduring creative partnership.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Making music vs. performing
AI in music and the 'dirty secret'
Overpreparedness and proving worth as women
Navigating misogyny and homophobia in early career
Childhood influences and the drive to work hard
Perfectionism: Recording and technical skills
First albums bought and musical independence
Discovering Smashing Pumpkins and Siamese Dream
The impact of 'Today' and musical upbringing
Writing prompts and emulating other artists
Solo writing process and editing each other
Struggles with rewriting and creative pressure
Stage positioning and the 'left/right' dynamic
The famous stage switch and audience reaction
Vocal strengths and recording challenges
Vocal health and longevity in a 30-year career
Admiration for 21 Pilots' live performance
First impressions of Peaches and live energy
Contrast between their style and wild shows
Inspirations from Devo and creative ambition
Balancing coolness with audience excitement
The 'vase' metaphor for songwriting
Transition to pop and electronic music
Guitar skills and finding a unique signature
Awards, nostalgia, and the 'icon' label
Joint 30th birthday party in Vancouver
Dream collaboration: 21 Pilots and Hayley Williams
Reflections on being called an 'icon'
Parenting, humility, and the 'icon' reality
Kids' reactions to their music and legacy
Touring burnout and finding balance
Hobbies outside of music and creative space
Relationships and the 48-hour rule
Diversifying life beyond the band
Life changes and the pandemic's impact
Finding inspiration in a quieter life
Closing remarks and credits
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