Music Q&A with Rachel White of L.A. Exes

Queer alt-pop rock quartet, L.A. Exes, released their debut album, Get Some, last month, via Black Rainbow Records and spoiler alert: it’s awesome and includes a cover that you must check out! The band is comprised of fast friends Sam Barbera (vocals/bass), Jenny Owen Youngs (vocals/guitar), Rachel White (lead guitar), and Steph Barker (drums). Lead guitarist, Rachel White, took some time to answer some questions about their album, who she would interview if she could, what she’s missed about touring, and more!

Congratulations on the formation of the band and on the debut album! What does this album mean to you?
Thanks! It's been such a blast getting this album out into the world! Making this record was truly such a joyful experience with some of my favorite people and I think you can tell that we all had the best time making it.

How has L.A. Exes been different from other projects you’ve been a part of?
I mostly work behind the glass with bands in the studio, so it was really cool going back to my roots and recording myself and the band. There was a consensus on the musical direction we were going which made things really easy.

L.A. Exes did a cover of The Cranberries’ “Linger" that is on the album. It turned out great! How did the band decide and agree to cover “Linger”?
Thank you! We knew that we wanted a cover to finish out the record and Dolores had passed away just a year prior. We all loved the song, so it seemed like a no-brainer.

Who has been your favorite artist to collaborate with?
Jenny Owen Youngs, Sam Barbera, and Steph Barker.

Who has been your favorite band to see live?
Jenny Owen Youngs, Sam Barbera (beginners), and Steph Barker (Baby Bulldog). Just kidding, but actually all of them are great live. I've seen St. Vincent a bunch and I think she puts on a great show.

In your opinion, what artist/band are you a fan of that doesn’t get enough attention?
I really loved Forth Wanderers self-titled and Alohaha.

If you had a chance to interview any of your musical heroes, who would it be and why?
Patti Smith, definitely. I think she is the epitome of what a person who dedicates their life to art looks like.

This last year and a half has been hard for bands and music fans because tours didn’t take place. What’s one thing you've missed about touring?
The food! Nothing like off the highway fast food to warm up those vocal chords!

What helps you stay positive?
People tell me I was born with a positive optimistic attitude, so genetics?

Any last words or final message for the readers?
Check out Get Some and stay safe out there!

Music Q&AJazmin LemusSeptember 7, 2021L.A. Exes, music, music q&a, interview