Podcast Summary: Dumb Blonde – Episode: Throwback Thursday: Priscilla Block - Lows, Highs, and Thick Thighs

Host/Author: Dumb Blonde Productions
Guest: Priscilla Block
Release Date: December 5, 2024

Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of the Dumb Blonde podcast, host Bunnie XO welcomes country music sensation Priscilla Block to discuss her personal journey through the highs and lows of her career, the challenges of body positivity in the music industry, and the empowering message behind her hit song "Thick Thighs." This in-depth conversation offers listeners an intimate look into Priscilla's life, her resilience, and her commitment to authenticity.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Priscilla Block shares insights into her upbringing and initial foray into music. Growing up in a large, somewhat dysfunctional family in North Carolina, Priscilla describes how her parents' diverse backgrounds influenced her early life. Her father, a "crazy cowboy Jew" from Kansas, and her mother, who left the Mormon church, created a unique household dynamic.

[05:31] Priscilla Block: “I was born Priscilla Presley because my parents loved Elvis, and it’s funny that I ended up in music.”

Priscilla recounts learning piano as a child and later teaching herself guitar through YouTube, which became her escape and entry into songwriting.

Challenges and Struggles in Nashville

At 18, Priscilla made the bold decision to move to Nashville, inspired by artists like Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood. The transition was fraught with difficulties, including financial struggles, balancing work and school, and feeling disconnected from her parents' fading relationship.

[10:04] Priscilla Block: “Music was my piece and my diary.”

Priscilla describes her initial struggles, including living with unreliable Craigslist roommates and the emotional toll of her parents' split.

Breakthrough Moment and Viral Success

A pivotal moment in Priscilla’s career occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic when she turned to TikTok to sustain her music career amid global lockdowns. By posting original music clips, she experienced her first viral success, leading to an overwhelming influx of fan support.

[33:51] Priscilla Block: “The universe has a way of answering you, even when you don't think they're listening.”

This surge in popularity culminated in Priscilla independently releasing her song "Thick Thighs," which quickly climbed the iTunes charts, garnering attention from major labels.

Signing with Universal and Navigating the Music Industry

Priscilla discusses signing with Universal Music, highlighting the importance of staying true to herself amidst industry pressures to conform.

[40:08] Demps: “If anyone at this label ever tries changing you, do not let them.”

She emphasizes the significance of maintaining authenticity and how Universal respected her artistic vision, allowing her to flourish without compromising her identity.

Image and Body Positivity

A significant focus of the conversation is Priscilla’s commitment to body positivity. Struggling with her body image in her youth, she now uses her platform to inspire young girls to embrace their natural selves.

[44:12] Priscilla Block: “I wrote ‘Thick Thighs’ to say that I am who I am. I'm a curvy girl, by the way.”

Priscilla addresses the scarcity of body-positive messages in country music and expresses pride in being a role model who defies traditional norms.

Current Tour and Future Plans

Priscilla shares her experiences touring, including humorous anecdotes about her first tour bus and memorable interactions with legends like Shania Twain. She highlights her upcoming projects, including headlining tours and performing at prestigious venues like Bridgestone Arena.

[48:22] Priscilla Block: “Jay told me to tell you hello. We cried when we met each other.”

Priscilla also touches on her future endeavors, including working on her second album and continuing to prioritize her mental and emotional well-being amidst her rising career.

Empowering Messages and Advice

Towards the end of the episode, Priscilla offers empowering advice to aspiring artists, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and authenticity.

[53:25] Priscilla Block: “Do not let anyone change who you are. Stay true to you and kick some ass.”

She encourages young artists to pursue their dreams relentlessly while maintaining their unique identities, reinforcing the episode’s overarching theme of embracing one’s true self.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Priscilla Block on OCD Awareness:

  “OCD is actually having disturbing, unwanted thoughts that cause you overwhelming anxiety... It's not just about hand washing and organization.”
  [00:00]

• Priscilla Block on Moving to Nashville:

  “I came out here and just started working, like every autonomy job... I knew I needed to move to Nashville.”
  [16:00]

• Priscilla Block on Viral Success:

  “It wasn’t happening, but I knew it was going to happen.”
  [30:49]

• Priscilla Block on Body Positivity:

  “I am who I am. I'm a curvy girl, by the way.”
  [44:12]

• Priscilla Block’s Advice to Aspiring Artists:

  “Stay true to you and kick some ass.”
  [53:25]

Conclusion

This episode of Dumb Blonde offers a candid and inspiring dialogue with Priscilla Block, highlighting her journey through personal struggles, the pursuit of her musical dreams, and her steadfast commitment to authenticity and body positivity. Priscilla's story serves as a beacon of resilience and empowerment for listeners navigating their own challenges.

Listen to the full episode on Dumb Blonde Podcast