LØLØ walks fine line of self-deprecation on new album

Toronto-based pop-rock artist LØLØ delves into the depths of intense emotions on her upcoming album ‘god forbid a girl spits out her feelings!’. Lauren Mandel, professionally known as LØLØ, started crafting songs and performing at open mic nights in Toronto during high school. In 2020, her music gained traction when her unique takes on popular tunes like Taylor Swift’s “Betty” and The Kid Laroi’s “Without You” gained popularity on TikTok.

Having shared the stage with well-known bands such as Simple Plan, Marianas Trench, and New Found Glory, Mandel is no stranger to the music scene. Ahead of the release of her third album, she shared insights with Now Toronto about her TikTok success, her experiences in Toronto’s open mic circuit, and the delicate balance between self-deprecation and self-criticism.

Growing up in a diverse city like Toronto provided Mandel with the opportunity to immerse herself in live music culture. Attending various open mics, she was inspired by artists breaking genre boundaries and decided to follow suit. Influenced by Canadian music icons like Simple Plan and Avril Lavigne, Mandel embraced her love for rock and pop-punk from an early age.

During the pandemic lockdown in 2020, Mandel harnessed the power of social media platforms like TikTok to share her music with a wider audience. By posting covers of popular songs through a unique lens, she garnered significant attention online. Mandel acknowledges that the rise of TikTok has democratized the music industry, allowing aspiring artists to share their work without the need for traditional record labels.

Reflecting on the changing landscape of music promotion, Mandel notes that while platforms like TikTok offer increased visibility, breaking through the noise requires a combination of luck, talent, and hard work. As more artists vie for attention in the digital realm, standing out amidst the competition has become both challenging and rewarding.

Despite her penchant for self-deprecating song titles, Mandel emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between humor and sincerity in her music. Rejecting the notion of being labeled as “pathetic,” she asserts her emotional depth and self-awareness. Mandel believes that embracing a degree of self-deprecation can foster resilience and prevent others from exploiting vulnerabilities.

With her forthcoming album, ‘god forbid a girl spits out her feelings!’, Mandel encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and emotional honesty. In contrast to her previous work, the album conveys a message of self-acceptance and empowerment, urging fans to embrace their feelings without judgment. Through her music, LØLØ seeks to create a space where emotional expression is celebrated, challenging societal norms regarding over-sensitivity and self-expression.