Interview: Maskless With BoyWithUke
Interview by Lindsey V. Britt / Photos by Connor Gaskey
Charley Yang, who you may know as BoyWithUke, has just released Burnout which will be his last album under the moniker. Going forward with no mask, Charley will be starting a new era of his musical journey.
What was it like creating Burnout?
It was bittersweet. I think throughout the writing and producing of the album, it felt like this was the end of BoyWithUke.
Your song “Stranger” was my favorite off the album, what’s the story behind that song?
Truthfully, it was an experience/experiences I had during my sort of “hoe” era. Hooking up with random people on the internet is definitely bad for your soul. Also people acted a little differently towards me after my face was revealed, and a few people who I barely knew would reach out with, what I deemed as, questionable intentions. I’m not really proud of the person I was when I made that song, but I do think it was funny.
Are you excited to be going in a new direction with your music?
Excited and relieved. I feel like this is a good opportunity to start anew. It’s weird. The larger of a following you get, the smaller the box is of what your fans want.
What led you to stop hiding your identity?
So many things, but ultimately I think I grew tired of the persona and performing with the mask. It was fun for a while, but doing it 24/7 for 3-4 years gets old real quick. It was so gimmicky and I realized how different it was from who I really was.
Have you been recognized now that you’ve removed the mask?
Only a handful of times, but every time it’s been pretty pleasant. People are generally chill.
Are you wanting to collaborate with other artists now that you’re about to go by your name?
I think so. Hopefully I can make some genuine friends after collaboration as well!
Do you have a name for your fans, like Swifties, Monsters, etc?
Eh, probably just people.
Are you planning a tour for this album?
YES! Actually, when making these tracks, live performance was a huge influencing factor. It’ll be my last and final tour as BoyWithUke and I’m so excited.
Do you have like a go-to snack that you must have while touring?
I tend to eat very clean when on tour. My go to snack is either a cliff bar or protein oatmeal with chia seeds. Also acai bowls
What is your dream venue to play at?
I’m not sure I have a dream venue anymore. House of Blues Boston used to be my dream venue since it was where I went to my first concert, but I’ve already performed there. Honestly, any venue where I can perform Burnout will be my dream venue.
I watched a lot of your YouTube videos such as BoyWithUke Origins and Next To The Fern, are you interested in the film making side of the industry as well as the music side?
Wow, good question! This is something I have been thinking about. I love film and visual art! I would definitely love to be a part of something in the film industry, whether it be music, directing, production, or even acting.
You have millions of listeners, I’m sure you’ve seen your music added to some interesting playlists, can you recall a couple of them?
A few love making playlists were interesting choices. Like literally what song from my catalog is going to aid with that?
I saw your interview with Anthony Padilla, and I’m curious if you ever picked your favorite color, and what is it?
Dude I love charcoal.
Lastly do you have a recommendation? this can be anything from a book to a place to visit, anything.
I recommend people exercise daily. So good for your mental and physical health.
You can stream Burnout now on your favorite music platform.
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