SASSYHIYA is set to release their debut album later this year, and they're giving us a sneak peek with their new single, "Kristen Stewart." This song is a joyful tribute to the famous actress, filled with upbeat indie pop energy that might make it the most fun song of the summer.
"Kristen Stewart" will be available on all streaming services and as a limited-edition (only 50 copies!) lathe-cut 7” single. This special release will include a zine made by Sassyhiya’s own Helen and Kathy, available only on the Skep Wax Bandcamp site.
The band's album, "Take You Somewhere," is scheduled for release on November 8, 2024.
Helen, a huge Kristen Stewart fan, explains that the single is a tribute to the actress, who she admires for her role choices and public persona. "I wanted to write a song about her because she's awesome and makes great choices when it comes to roles. She's grown up in the public eye and has become the person we hoped she would be—someone proud of her queerness and really cool and fun."
The song even includes a bit about a real-life near-encounter with Kristen Stewart when Helen saw her filming a scene for the movie "Spencer" at a KFC on the Old Kent Road. Helen stood next to Stewart, who was dressed as Princess Diana, but was too shy to say hello.
Helen hopes the catchy song will resonate with everyone but especially with queer people. "I love the idea of adding something to pop culture that shows the LGBTQ+ community's love for Kristen. I would love to hear it played in a queer space or at a lesbian club."
Sassyhiya is made up of musical partners Kathy Wright and Helen Skinner. They met at a Rollerderby game and have been making music together since their first date at an Austra show in 2011.
Their sound is a mix of post-punk and indie pop, with influences from bands like The Breeders, Broadcast, and Dolly Parton. After Helen played bass in Boys Forever and Basic Plumbing, she and Kathy formed Sassyhiya with friends Bart McDonagh and Mark Amura. They released their first EP in January 2022 and a live EP later that year.
Sassyhiya has played live sessions, been featured on YouTube music programs, and appeared on compilations. They have shared stages with bands like Fat White Family’s Brian Destiny and Big Joanie. With their new single "Kristen Stewart," they're ready to bring their unique indie pop sound to even more listeners. This song makes you feel electrified and blissfully liberated.
IG: @sassyhiya @skepwax