Featured in Guitar Girl Magazine Exclusive Issue – July 2023
Astin is known as “everyone’s favorite auntie,” and she brings a unique blend of rock and soul to her music as the lead singer and guitarist of Thee BLK Pearl. Hailing from Mississippi, her sound is heavily influenced by the blues and soul, giving Thee BLK Pearl’s music a distinct flavor. But Astin is not just a musician; she is also a filmmaker, blending her love for music and film into a unique artistic perspective. In this interview, dive deeper into Astin’s creative process, musical influences, and insights into the film industry.
Exploring Astin Rocks and Thee BLK Pearl
Describing her music style, Astin Rocks is a mix of love, rebellion, authenticity, and humor. With artists like Cardi B and Stephanie Mills on her playlist, she embodies a modern mystic with a love for classic sounds and a penchant for buying boots.
Thee BLK Pearl is a fusion of Black music from every era, reflecting Astin’s Mississippi roots and blending traditional blues with contemporary punk elements. Her music is raw, unfiltered, and full of emotion, capturing the essence of American music’s origins.
A Journey of Self-Expression
Approaching her 30s, Astin found herself at a crossroads in the film industry, feeling stifled by unexpressed emotions and a lack of creative freedom. This frustration led her to channel her emotions into music, starting with the song “Top Notch Goddess,” a raw expression of anger and defiance.
Forming Thee BLK Pearl with friends Fred Robinson and Noelani Manami, Astin created a sound that is stripped down and pure, reminiscent of a backyard punk band infused with the soul of classic blues artists. The band’s evolving lineup reflects Astin’s desire to maintain an authentic and passionate sound.
Embracing New Challenges
During the pandemic in 2020, Astin took up the bass guitar as a new challenge, adding another layer to her musical repertoire. This new instrument brought fresh inspiration and creativity to her music, further expanding her artistic horizons.
Experience the unique blend of rock, soul, and raw emotion in Astin’s music, as she continues to push boundaries and defy expectations in both the music and film industries. Dive into her world and discover the passion and creativity that drive her artistic pursuits.