SXSW may be the United States’ most diverse music festival. Every year it highlights music artists from around the globe.
One of the most engaging of the 2022 artists is Barbara Bivolt aka Bivolt. Hailing from Sao Paulo Brazil she is a stylish, colorful, energetic, and electric combination of Brazilian Hip Hop and R&B.
Nominated in 2020 for a Latin Grammy award, Bivolt is that rare, eclectic artist that is a dual-threat musically. She’s destined to be a star on the international stage for a long time.
We were excited to speak with her and learn more about her background.
Dialogue Magazine: What was the moment or moments that you knew you wanted to be an artist?
Bivolt: Since I was a child I have always been an artist, I have always made art in some way, whether with paper, a pencil or a microphone, art has always spoken for me. It was very difficult for me in childhood, because my family didn’t know how to deal with all that expression!
DM: Describe your background and growing up in Brazil before the success.
Bivolt: I’ve worked with many things, I’ve been a waitress, saleswoman, receptionist and even a dog walker. I had to work a lot on things I didn’t like to be able to record my songs and finally be able to work on something I love.
DM: How has your experience in the United States and at SXSW been?
Bivolt: The reception of people was incredible, I felt loved and welcomed. Wherever I went people were impressed, not only with my art, but also with my style and hair (which caught a lot of attention)!
DM: Who are some of your musical influences? Any American influences?
Bivolt: I have lots of American influences! Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Foxy Brown, Lil Kim, Nicki Minaj, have always been examples for me. They are all women in mostly male places, who knew how to dribble and master their work. Mainly Erykah and Lauryn who, in addition to the rhymes, also have a unique voice and remarkable presence. I owe a lot to these women, they helped form my character!
DM: How would you describe your music?
Bivolt: My music is freedom music, it has no labels, it has no limits! They are songs for all times, because they are songs made in all kinds of moments!
DM: How would you describe yourself?
Bivolt: Blessed and irreverent.
DM: What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a female artist?
Bivolt: All possible things that a woman faces on a day-to-day basis. The invisibility, lack of representation and appreciation of those already on the market. To be accepted we have to be within a standard, and not everyone is willing to submit, on the contrary, my fight is for breaking those standards.
DM: I really love the song and video for ‘110V.’ Do you plan to do songs in English?
Bivolt: Yes! Especially after my trip to SXSW, and all the affection I received! It was amazing and inspiring! I want to return to the USA soon, with songs in English but with a Brazilian rhythm!
DM: What musical artists would you like to collaborate with if given the chance?
Bivolt: Dani Leigh, Summer Walker, Big Latto, Saweetie and all the new generation women who rocks!
DM: What do you like to do in your spare time to unwind and get away from stress?
Bivolt: Connection with nature, music and preferably both together! Brazil is full of beautiful places to inspire!
DM: Any upcoming projects we should be aware of?
Bivolt: Stay tuned for upcoming releases, but don’t miss my latest album, “Nitro”, it’s full of Brazilian references.
