At just 21, Sophie Powers has already carved out a lane as pop’s fearless disruptor. From her collaborations with Grimes, Dillon Francis, and ILLIT to performing at Seoul’s One Universe Festival right before Charli XCX, Sophie’s sound is bold, unapologetic, and impossible to ignore. Her new single “Muddy” dives deep into a darker, grittier world, leaving behind the bubblegum aesthetic of her early releases and solidifying her as an artist unafraid to take risks. Beyond music, she’s a fashion designer, bringing her synesthetic vision to life through both sound and style.
1883 caught up with Sophie for 18 Questions With to talk about Muddy, collaboration, and the little things that make life — and music — extraordinary.
What’s one exciting thing that happened to you this week?
I didn’t get cancelled online.
What was the last thing you read?
The MHA Vigilantes Manga. Highly recommend.
Favourite memory growing up?
Turning 18. Just kidding, probably spending my summers, spring breaks, and every other holiday in Delray Beach, FL. That place is my second home.
Where was the last place you travelled to?
Seoul, South Korea for One Universe Festival!
What was the last thing that made you laugh?
Definitely my hair this morning in the mirror. I think I have the worst bed head out of anyone I know.
What’s your nighttime ritual?
I usually fall asleep with my phone in my hand doom scrolling/editing on TikTok, but before that I have a six-step skincare routine, four-step mouth/teeth routine, and a five-minute cracking every bone in my body stretching routine.
Who would be on your dream dinner party guest list?
Honestly, Sofia Vergara, Sofia Carson, Sophie Turner, Sophie Thatcher, Sofia Richie — just because we all have basically the same name and I think that would be fun.
Favourite quote from a film or TV show?
“The human heart is the source of all our power. We fight with the power of our hearts.” – Lelouch Vi Britannia, Code Geass. This quote keeps me motivated and in touch with my emotions — which is odd because Lelouch is a heartless character. However, his message remains inspirational.
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
I love anything Adele, but if I had to pick one it would be Rolling in the Deep.
What was it about music that made you want to pursue it as a career?
The idea of making noise for a living is just so appealing. Like genuinely, the fact that I can make a living off of sounds I make with my mouth, lyrics I write, designs I draw, and art I create is so fulfilling. It keeps me mentally sane. I love every day.
Your new single “Muddy” is your boldest yet. What inspired it, and what do you hope people feel when they hear it?
Muddy is the most sexually forward song I’ve ever put out — both lyrically and visually. I hope people feel empowered, encouraged to express themselves, and move their bodies!
The track leaves behind your earlier bubblegum aesthetic for something darker and grittier. How intentional was that shift?
Everything I do is intentional. After being forced to discontinue the glitch series due to outside matters, I chose to completely ditch the bubblegum aesthetic. Move With Me was actually the first song since stepping away, but Muddy is the true deep dive into the world I’m building.
Was there anything that surprised you during the making and recording of Muddy?
Honestly, I was surprised by what the song stemmed from. My producer Mike had me write a dark poem about being treated horribly, like a worm from someone else’s actions. The song didn’t want to be depressing — it wanted to be explosive, and I think that choice paid off.
At just 21, you’ve already collaborated with huge names like Grimes, Dillon Francis, and ILLIT. What’s one lesson you’ve taken from working with other artists?
Everyone has their own creative process. I’ve learned to respect that and not rush anything. Collaboration is about uplifting and supporting each other to create something truly special.
You’ve performed at Seoul’s One Universe Festival, right before Charli XCX. What was that experience like for you?
Like jumping into the deep end with neon lights and a crowd way cooler than me. It was surreal, but it made me want to do it all over again. I love South Korea and the people there — it was the most rewarding moment of my year.
The track blends glamour and grime. How do you balance those contrasts in your music and visuals?
I don’t. But that’s the beauty in it.
You’re also a fashion designer — how does fashion feed into your music and vice versa?
I get synesthesia. Clothing, colors, textures, and music all feed into each other. Writing a song can inspire outfit designs, and designing can inspire sound. It’s an endless cycle that tells a story.
If you could manifest one thing for yourself this era, what would it be?
Honestly, just to keep surprising everyone, including myself. And maybe a really cool award that I’ll pretend I don’t care about but secretly cherish.
