In this episode of We Need To Talk, YUNGBLUD sits down for his most honest interview yet - revealing how he went from rock bottom to global success.
Best known for anthems like I Think I’m OKAY and Parents, YUNGBLUD opens up about the childhood trauma, identity struggles, and online hate that shaped who he is today. He reflects on growing up in Doncaster, the emotional toll of being misunderstood, and why he’s worried about young men today.
YUNGBLUD speaks candidly about his relationship with Halsey, the reason he’s “taking space” from Jesse Jo Stark, and how relationships, identity and self-discovery have all played a part in his journey.
From being signed at 21 to launching Bludfest, this is a story of rebellion, resilience, and radical self-expression. He also shares an exclusive on his upcoming single Zombie and what fans can expect from his fourth studio album, Idols.
Please note this conversation includes sensitive topics that may be distressing
Samaritans: https://g2ul0.app.link/qcJLJLhBjTb
MIND: https://g2ul0.app.link/Ne9MpdtBjTb
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(0:00) Intro
(1:29) Growing Up in Doncaster
(4:32) The Most Painful Moment in YUNGBLUD's Childhood
(5:21) How Has YUNGBLUD's Turbulent Childhood Shaped the Man He Has Become?
(10:24) People's Perceptions of YUNGBLUD from Childhood and Into Adult Life
(20:42) YUNGBLUD's Thoughts Around Modern Masculinity
(30:48) Who Did YUNGBLUD Look Up To as a Child/Teenager?
(32:31) The Story of How YUNGBLUD Was Signed to Interscope Records
(41:26) How YUNGBLUD Built His Fanbase and Community
(43:44) YUNGBLUD's Struggle with His Identity During Commercial Success
(46:09) YUNGBLUD's Insecurities Sparked by Online Comments and Discourse
(50:33) The Inspiration Behind Bludfest
(54:07) The Story Behind 'Hatred'
(57:28) The Spectre of 27 and Music Artists
(59:54) Shopify Ad
(1:00:58) Tinder Ad
(1:02:13) YUNGBLUD's Relationship with Jessie Jo Stark
(1:09:02) YUNGBLUD's Relationship with Halsey
(1:10:04) YUNGBLUD's Thoughts on Marriage and Having Kids
(1:11:02) YUNGBLUD Addresses Discourse Around His Upbringing
(1:14:09) YUNGBLUD Addresses Accusations of 'Queer Baiting'
(1:19:23) Why YUNGBLUD Took a Break from Social Media
(1:21:21) YUNGBLUD's New Album
(1:24:21) YUNGBLUD's Book and 'Loves and Hates'
(1:26:35) What YUNGBLUD Grandad Thought of His Career
(1:29:39) The Meaning Behind YUNGBLUD's New Single 'Zombie'
(1:35:18) What Would Seven-Year-Old Dom Say to 27-Year-Old Dom?
(1:37:38) Most Memorable Conversation
(1:42:51) Paul's Takeaways
(1:45:29) Crossed Wires Ad
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We Need To Talk with Paul C. Brunson 