Rebecca Black has returned and is prepared to reveal every aspect of herself this time.

      "It's Friday, Friday. Gotta get down on Friday." The lyrics of Rebecca Black's 2011 viral hit "Friday" continue to resonate in our minds as we reach the joyous end of the workweek. After fourteen years, the song still resonates, so it’s no surprise that it was featured in a brand partnership this month with Bombay Sapphire's ongoing Tastes Like It's Friday campaign, which showcases Black and its Sparkling Lemon cocktail. Accompanied by a remixed version of the nostalgic tune, the refreshing and lemony drink perfectly captures that carefree weekend essence that the California singer portrayed years ago. Yes, "Friday" is making a significant comeback, as is Black herself with her new EP, Salvation. With this release, she embraces her true self—free-spirited and eager to reveal all aspects of her identity through pop anthems like the title track "Salvation" and "Sugar Water Cyanide." It showcases Black at her most self-assured, with bold lyrics, captivating visuals, and a rich fashion style to match. Our weekend playlists have just been elevated.

      (Image credit: Kristen Jan Wong; Styling: Belle de Nuit bra; archival Betsey Johnson tutu; I.Am.Gia coat; Reliquia jewelry; Nomasei socks; Franco Sarto shoes)

      Congratulations on the launch of Salvation! How does this EP embody who you are now as an artist and as a person?

      Thank you! Salvation marks a creative turning point for me. In recent years, I've channeled my artistic energy into becoming more in tune with my intuition and learning to trust my creative process. Each song reflects this journey of finally lowering my defenses regarding how others perceive me. For a long time, I was quite tense, afraid of making mistakes due to the fear of criticism, but Salvation is all about embracing the fluidity of my identity and all the different versions of myself, rather than striving for perfection in the eyes of others.

      What did you envision this project to be for your fans?

      This project is a celebration of self. I've discovered so much confidence in my own voice, and I hope that anyone listening can find that same empowerment for themselves.

      Is there a particular track on Salvation that encapsulates this moment for you?

      I believe the title track embodies the essence of this project, which is why it’s named "Salvation." Additionally, "Sugar Water Cyanide" feels like a direct connection between me and my audience, something I've always desired. The moment we wrote it, I knew that my audience would resonate with it. I’m not certain if others around me felt the same, but it was one of those moments of intuition I chose to follow.

      (Image credit: Kristen Jan Wong; Styling: Belle de Nuit bra; archival Betsey Johnson tutu; I.Am.Gia coat; Reliquia jewelry)

      How would you describe the fashion vibe or aesthetic for this EP?

      It’s all about extravagance, grand illusions, fur, a hint of trashiness, and irony.

      You recently kicked off the Salvation Tour. What are you looking forward to showcasing to your fans during this performance?

      I’m thrilled to bring the world of Salvation to life on stage, especially with the songs that haven’t yet been visualized, like "American Doll" and "Twist the Knife." At its core, it’s a theatrical experience.

      Do you have a favorite look from the tour?

      Brody designed an incredible custom embellished coat for me, adorned with real bedazzled cigarettes, soda cans, spoons, and other delightful trinkets from the Salvation universe. It’s fabulously unique, and Brody has been a favorite designer for both me and my stylist Dot during this period.

      (Image credit: Kristen Jan Wong; Styling: Belle de Nuit bra; archival Betsey Johnson tutu; I.Am.Gia coat; Reliquia jewelry; Nomasei socks; Franco Sarto shoes)

      As you continue to grow and reinvent yourself as an artist, who are your major musical or pop influences?

      I’m consistently inspired by those who challenge the limits of pop norms, such as Gaga, Madonna, Bowie, Prince, and Gwen. I admire how they create entire worlds on sets and stages or even while simply walking down the street. That is the essence of pop stardom that I find most exhilarating.

      We're eager to hear your thoughts on the current state of pop music. It seems like we’re in an exciting phase where women are embracing their sexuality and celebrating their imperfections.

      I’m excited to witness this glorious moment for pop, but I’ve always believed that pop is a timeless and genreless phenomenon. Considering the state of the world, it’s understandable that audiences want to see their favorite artists acknowledging contemporary issues and interacting with a sense of authenticity, even if it appears rebellious. I think pop is most intriguing when it shakes things up, and that’s what empowers the talented women we admire today. They are bold