Michelle Zauner reveals life-changing advice Karen O gave her, calling it ‘sage rock wisdom’
Michelle Zauner recently shared some valuable advice she received from Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs that significantly impacted her life. In an interview with Q’s Tom Power discussing her band’s latest album, For Melancholy Brunettes (& Sad Women), the lead singer of Japanese Breakfast highlighted the profound impact of O’s wisdom.
As a teenager, Zauner admired Karen O not only for her musical talent but also as a fellow half-Korean American woman who defied societal expectations. O represented a figure that Zauner could look up to for inspiration and courage, particularly in pursuing her passion for music. The opportunity to open for the Yeah Yeah Yeahs in 2022 at Forest Hills Stadium in New York and later at L.A.’s Hollywood Bowl allowed Zauner to meet her idol at a time when she was navigating significant career shifts.
After Japanese Breakfast’s album Jubilee garnered critical acclaim and her memoir, Crying In H Mart: A Memoir, became a bestseller, Zauner found herself struggling with the mental and physical toll of newfound fame. Feeling overwhelmed and under pressure, she decided to take a break and spent a year in Seoul to recalibrate. This hiatus provided her with a perspective on the toll that stress and pressure can take on one’s well-being, leading to a realization that much of her struggles were rooted in mental strain.
Upon meeting Karen O, Zauner had already begun to feel more centered but was grappling with reconciling her career as a touring musician with her aspirations of starting a family. O’s poignant advice on the importance of saying “no” resonated deeply with Zauner, who had developed a tendency to say yes to every opportunity stemming from her DIY background. O emphasized that creativity trumps availability and that saying no when necessary is crucial to maintaining artistic integrity and well-being.
Zauner’s interview with Tom Power provides insight into her creative process, new album, and personal growth. She emphasizes the significance of learning to set boundaries, prioritize mental health, and embrace the power of choice in navigating the complexities of a music career. By internalizing Karen O’s sage advice, Zauner has found a renewed sense of agency and balance in her artistic journey. The exchange between two talented musicians underscores the importance of mentorship and the transformative impact of sharing wisdom within the music industry.