INTERVIEW: Smashby Slows Down on His "First Rodeo"
Smashby kicks off his country turn with "First Rodeo," a lively and vulnerable tune destined for queer line dance parties.
A rising star in the LGBTQ+ music scene, Smashby has always been unapologetically himself. Growing up, he endured relentless teasing from classmates who mocked his looks, voice, and mannerisms. “To them, I was just the gay kid who wanted to be a star, and that wasn’t exactly the coolest thing in the 2000s/2010s,” he reflects. But coming out at 15 was a turning point. “Once I came out, a lot of my insecurities started to disappear. I started to unlearn what had been projected onto me by society and finally got to start living within my own boundaries.”
On his latest song "First Rodeo," though, Smashby makes himself vulnerable. The catchy song is destined for queer line dance parties, but the message is tender: take things slow, because we don't know what the new people in our lives have been through – or what they want from us. In our interview, Smashby discusses his path to music.
Tell us about the first song you wrote.
The first song I wrote ever? I think it was about just being myself. I got bullied a lot growing up so I used to use songwriting as escapism. It kind of manifested my confidence so I could grow into the person I am now.
What's your country music origin story?
I’ve loved country music since I was a young boy. Growing up, I would listen to Leanne Rimes in the car with my mum so I’ve always loved hearing country music influence pop over the years and have wanted to dip my toe into it. It only really happened in the past couple years when I leaned into writing more personal songs like when I was in school. I figured out I’m pretty good at telling a story and from what I’ve read that seems to be the most important thing in country music. So it’s really helped me to grow as an artist when adopting that storytelling mindset as oppose to trying to write the next big hit.
Where are some places you’ve found joy within the country/Americana world?
I went to see Dasha last year and just seeing a crowd all line dance together was the most joyous and heart warming thing I’ve ever seen. I feel like country music really brings people together like that.
How do you feel your queer identity ties into your performance style or music?
Growing up, my goal with music was to be the artist my younger self needed. I feel like it’s important for queer people to tell their stories so everyone can realize we’re actually not that different, we all have things in common that bring us together and make us human. Also it’s important for queer people to have access to those stories, to see themselves represented in music.
What would you like to say to people who are currently questioning their identities?
I would say take your time baby, this is your journey. It’s personal. Don’t let anyone rush you or dismiss you wherever you are on your journey. It’s all about being comfortable with yourself, whether that’s within a label or not. You have one life and you gotta live it the way that’ll make you the happiest.
What's the best way a fan can support you?
Streaming and downloading my music is a massive help, sharing it on social media and adding it to playlists really helps to get me out there! While you’re at it, follow me on Instagram, too!
