We linked up with SAILORR to talk opening for Doja Cat, paying homage to her roots, and having too much swag.
Last week rising artist SAILORR, who’s known for her ethereal music, unapologetic sense of humour, and fantastical style, sat down with us to chat about her new music, cultural roots, and more. Having recently been enlisted to open Doja Cat’s Ma Vie tour, and building up to the release of her deluxe album, FROM FLORIDA’S FINEST DELU/XXX (for my delusional ex), SAILORR’s had a huge 2025 and is anticipating an even bigger 2026. Keep reading to find out what went down.
Your recent cover for the single “LOCKED IN” is really cool, but what I love about it is how it references your roots with the traditional Vietnamese practice of wearing your teeth ‘black’. Has being Vietnamese influenced your style and music a lot?
“Thank you, it’s cool to refer to the practices and people that have shaped me into who I am today. Seeing my grandma and all the women around her has always inspired me because I rely heavily on my community of girls. Being Vietnamese is just a drip in the bucket of that because my identity isn’t something that I can run from or hide, but it’s also something that I’ve been able to redefine to fit my standard of existing.”
“Like most practices that become commodified, teeth blackening started out as a means of protection from oppression and I think it’s cool that I get to wear something historic, while also feeling strong in my femininity. There’s a couple other people that blacken their grillz to pay homage to their heritage like Sukiibaby and Molly Santana and I think it’s cool to see a resurgence of something that was so traditional to be spun in our way of redefining beauty.”
You grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, though, which obviously inspired the name of your last album, “FROM FLORIDA’S FINEST”. How has living in the Southern state affected your work as an artist?
“Growing up in the South exposed me to a lot of different music, perspectives, and lifestyles at a young age. I am thankful to have experienced the culture behind Black music, because it influences everything everyone does to this day, from beauty, to fashion, to everyday life. Because there is so much systemic tension in Jacksonville, it’s almost like we must learn to adapt and protect ourselves by creating art. I was lucky to become educated and aware of the nuances that come with not being white, and the importance of allyship and diversity, even outside of music. It’s definitely made me want to mobilize and become a pillar in my community to help make change happen, even within the small position I may play, and to really continue learning and pushing to become a better person overall.”
From your lyrics to your IG captions, you’re always bringing on point humour. Where would you say that comes from?
“Trauma. Having too much swag. Probably a mix of both. Maybe the causation of one thing to the latter, who knows?”
Who’s the funniest person you know?
“Vince Staples. Or my friend Earvee after we haven’t gotten enough sleep. I love being around my friends after suffering from sleep deprivation because it’s our two brain cells against the world.”
You’ve been opening for Doja Cat on her Ma Vie tour this month, which looks so insane! What’s it been like working with her?
“Doja is an angel. When I think of any artist, she is one of my North Stars. She has always been unapologetically herself and has never hidden behind any gimmicks or had to follow any trends to have people feel her art. Her team has taken such immense care of me and my people and I feel indebted to the universe for giving me this opportunity to experience what it’s like to be an artist at the highest level while maintaining your humanity and still having fun.”
You’ve spoken about how your breakthrough track, “Pookies Requiem” came from just “talking shit in the studio.” Has that approach stayed the same on your more recent projects?
“Music should always come from an organic feeling and space, the only way to cultivate that is truly feeling safe to do so. Thus far I think I’ve made it a priority to protect the process and the environment by ensuring that everyone involved, including myself, feels comfortable and free to express what they want.”
You’re currently building up to your next album, a remix of “FROM FLORIDA’S FINEST” with songs for your delusional ex. What is the most delusional thing you’ve had an ex do?
“I don’t want to incriminate anyone, and honestly I don’t want to glorify toxic behavior. Shit ain’t cute to have someone bring you out your character. I’m blessed to have the discernment I need to navigate personal relationships now, and had to experience all the things up until this point in order to gain that perspective. But yeah, I’ve been the delusional ex, I’ve had delusional exes, and I pray we all heal because the world already has enough hurt in it.”
You’ve described yourself as “a recovered people-pleaser.” What’s your biggest piece of advice for someone looking to give ‘people pleasing’ up?
“I didn’t understand how important it was to stop people pleasing until I hit rock bottom, and I hope that it doesn’t take someone else pouring too much out of their cup until it’s empty to realize it either. I had to teach people how to treat me and the people that didn’t learn weren’t supposed to be there anyway. Stay open and honest and watch the rest unfold.”
Vevo called you an “artist to watch” in 2026. What should people be watching out for?
“Watch me do my lil dancey dance. Maybe in 2027 I might be able to do a one-handed pull up or something. That would be cool. I don’t know what to tell you to look out for other than good music because I surprise myself with new things everyday.”
If you had the chance to collaborate with anyone in the music industry, who would you choose?
“James Fauntleroy, Amaarae, SZA, mk.gee, Knxwledge, Tyler, the Creator, 454, Pinkpantheress, and Solange. AND Erykah Badu. Love Monaleo. There’s too many people, I’m freaking out just thinking about it.”
What’s something you think the music industry is lacking right now?
“I think we’re seeing a surge of real ass bitches and that’s cool. Maybe we’re lacking the groundedness and understanding behind not rushing music for the sake of staying in the marketplace but hey, what do I know? It’s only my third day out here.”
What vibe are you manifesting for 2026?
“Coconuts under palm trees with my friends. Surrounding myself with the coolest synthesizers known to man. Building trust in myself. Loving wholeheartedly. Learning so much my brain hurts.”
