How U.K. Artist Yungblud Is Becoming a Staple in Pop-Punk

This week’s episode of TikTok’s For You podcast hosted by Brittany Broski features English musician Yungblud. The 23-year-old has been on a tear since his 2018 studio album debut 21st Century Liability, and is currently enjoying the success of his 2020  follow-up Weird!, which reached No. 1 on the U.K. Charts. Fans and music critics have praised Yungblud’s talent, unique artistry, and musicianship, citing his already profound influence on reigniting interest in pop-punk.

Below is a sneak peek of their interview. A new episode of For You will debut every Wednesday at 5:30 pm PST/8:30 pm ESTon TikTok LIVE. You can also catch it on all major podcast platforms such as Apple, Spotify, and Google.

Broski: You love TikTok don’t you?

Yungblud: I love TikTok because I think it’s punk! Can I tell you something? A lot of my punk rock friends didn’t understand it at first. So I was like let me break it down—there is nothing more punk than any person or any young person from any background being themselves, and they were like, “You’re right!” I remember when TikTok first came into my peripheral vision—my friends told me I was big on there, and I was like “What are you talking about? I’m not on TikTok.” Then they told me my music and the way I dress was big on there. I got on it and like with anything, I wanted to connect with people. It just kind of blew up after that.

Broski: A lot of your songs are about being disillusioned by Hollywood and popular music. If it weren’t for the intense connection that you have with your fans, do you still think you would have the popularity that you do?

Yungblud: No! That’s the thing I’ve got. It’s so funny to me—every time I dabble in that world, it bites me in the butt. It’s like I’m not destined to be there. Every time I collaborate or work with somebody mainstream it kind of feels weird, and the connection with my fans feels weird. It’s all about the message. Yungblud is not a “singer,” it's a way of thinking.