Unveiling the Essence of a Lolla Girl
What is a Lolla Girl? According to Etty Lau Farrell, embodying a Lolla Girl is a “state of mind.” This state of mind is characterized by fun, confidence, freedom, and an exhilarating escape from everyday life. As someone who has spent over two decades in close proximity to Lollapalooza events around the globe, Farrell is uniquely qualified to shed light on this concept. As the supportive partner of Lollapalooza founder Perry Farrell, she has witnessed the festival’s evolution while maintaining a vibrant presence in the background.
Etty Lau Farrell: From Background Support to Front-Stage Artist
After decades of serving as a foundational force behind Lollapalooza, Etty Farrell is now stepping into the spotlight, showcasing her artistry in new and exciting ways. With two dance music collaborations—“Butterfly” with DJ Rap and “Step Into The Light” with VNSSA—she is carving out her niche. Her recent endeavors mark a transformative moment; this year, Lollapalooza truly belongs to Etty. The pride she holds in her achievements is mirrored by her husband, Perry, who has always been her steadfast supporter.
A Glimpse into Collaborations
Farrell’s collaborations have led to meaningful artistic relationships. She recalls her connection with DJ Rap, someone she admires for her exceptional sound within the jungle genre. “Butterfly” emerged organically, as they exchanged melodies and vocals, discovering that their collaboration would fit beautifully into the EDM landscape.
Working with VNSSA has similarly invigorated Etty. Each artist she collaborates with brings their unique style, sparking creativity and allowing her to experiment. “It’s good to have something of my own that’s not solely tied to Perry or Jane’s Addiction,” she shares, clearly enjoying the freedom to explore her identity as an artist.
The Vital Role of Learning and Growth
Through her experiences, Etty emphasizes the importance of learning from those around her. As she collaborates with various producers, each artist’s different style provides invaluable insights. “I’ve learned that the best artists are dedicated to their craft and won’t settle for mediocrity,” she observes, drawing parallels between the persistence exhibited by top-tier musicians and her own background as a ballerina. This kind of dedication shapes her approach to creating music that is true to her vision.
A Bright Future Ahead
Looking forward, Etty has aspirations for further collaborations. She mentions having recorded additional songs that require refinement, hoping they will serve as gateways to more opportunities within the EDM community. “I really want to start doing collaborations because I enjoy it so much,” she expresses with enthusiasm.
While she is passionate about working with women—recognizing the underrepresentation in electronic music—she is also open to collaborating with male artists. She understands that diverse dynamics lead to varied creative outputs, which can be beneficial for her growth and artistic expression.
The Essence of a Lolla Girl
Etty describes a Lolla Girl as someone who attends a music festival with confidence and inclusiveness, celebrating life through music alongside like-minded individuals. Her personal awakening as a Lolla Girl traces back to 2004 during the last touring Lollapalooza, a time filled with community and electric performances.
Inspirations and Iconic Lolla Girls
When asked who embodies the ultimate Lolla Girl, Etty cites artists like Zara Larsson and Tate McRae. The vibrant energy they bring to their performances and their ability to connect with the audience aligns with the Lolla Girl identity. Notably, she also regards Cyndi Lauper as the original archetype for the Lolla Girl—embodying authenticity and genuine expression throughout her career.
A Personal Journey of Empowerment
Etty hopes her latest projects resonate with others, especially women who have found themselves in supporting roles, often sidelining their dreams. “This project means a tremendous amount to me,” she stresses, acknowledging the years spent in the background. Her music is not just a personal expression; it’s a celebration of her journey and an affirmation of what she can contribute as an independent artist.
This vibrancy represents more than just music—it’s a call to embrace joy, a reminder that despite life’s complexities, moments of celebration can and should be cherished. Through her newfound artistic freedom, Etty Lau Farrell is not just defining what it means to be a Lolla Girl but is also inspiring others to bravely step into the light, much like she has.
