Sarah Klang on ‘Beautiful Woman’ – A Deep Dive interview into the Complexity of Womanhood

The upcoming album Beautiful Woman from Sarah Klang is a profound journey through the complexity of womanhood. Set to release on February 7, 2025, the album ventures into personal yet universal themes that resonate deeply with listeners. From reflecting on early 2000s pop culture and body image in “Other Girls” to embracing a more expansive, live-recorded sound, Klang’s artistry evolves with every release. Collaborating with renowned producer Eric D. Johnson and a team of seasoned musicians, Klang delivers a record that feels alive, raw, and intimate.

We sat down with Klang to discuss her songwriting process, the impact of nostalgia on her art, and her experiences recording in Los Angeles for the first time.

FAULT Magazine: “Beautiful Woman” explores themes of womanhood in all its complexity. How did you approach translating such personal experiences into something universal through your music?

Sarah Klang: I try not to have any particular “tactics” when I write. I aim to make things as simple and understandable as possible. My first language isn’t English, so when I try to wrap things up or use metaphors, it often turns out badly. I think that’s both my weakness and strength as a songwriter—to just write exactly as it is.

FAULT Magazine: You’ve mentioned that “Other Girls” reflects on early 2000s pop culture and body image. How did that era shape your songwriting, and how do you think those cultural pressures have influenced your music today?

Sarah Klang: I was in my early teens back then, not a tomboy but stereotypically girly, which came with a lot of struggles. The era was all about being thin, cool, and mysterious, but I was plump, sweaty, and chatty. My songwriting didn’t start until my later teens, so I didn’t write about wanting to be skinny—it felt shameful then. Over time, my songwriting has developed to be more authentic and reflective of myself.

FAULT Magazine: This album marks your first time recording in Los Angeles and using live recording techniques. How did this shift influence the sound and energy of Beautiful Woman?

Sarah Klang: It was time to try something new after making four albums in much the same way. The new approach gave the album a more “living” sound. It was both exciting and nerve-wracking to break into unknown territory.

FAULT Magazine: Working with Eric D. Johnson and a team of renowned musicians must have been exciting. What was the most surprising aspect of collaborating with them?

Sarah Klang: The ease and speed of the process surprised me the most. Bringing new people into the project meant fresh ears and interpretations. Watching Josh and Josh add drums and bass in just two days was incredible.

FAULT Magazine: How does Beautiful Woman differ from your previous albums in terms of emotional depth and storytelling?

Sarah Klang: It doesn’t differ much; everything I write is about my life. This album has a common thread connecting my teenage years to where I am now.

FAULT Magazine: Was there a particular moment or experience that served as the foundation for the album’s concept?

Sarah Klang: Other Girls and Beautiful Woman definitely tie my puberty and current self together. They’re two of the most raw and personal texts I’ve ever written.

FAULT Magazine: You’ve won several awards throughout your career. Do you feel pressure to compete with your previous accolades with each new release?

Sarah Klang: Lol, yes. It’s horrible.

FAULT Magazine: What are you most looking forward to for the rest of the year?

Sarah Klang: I can’t wait to release this album. It’s been a LOT of work, and I’m looking forward to toasting with my band backstage before the first gig on the Beautiful Woman tour.

FAULT Magazine: What is your FAULT?

Sarah Klang: The list is too long. You don’t have enough space for everything in this interview.