When we look back on the cursed year of 2021, PinkPantheresses‘ “Break It Off” will undoubtedly stand out as one of the songs synonymous with it. Over the course of 11 months, the 20-year-old student has harnessed the power of TikTok and carved out a covetable spot for herself and her poppy future-jungle at the centre of the music industry. As she told i-D in her first ever interview, she was drawn to the nostalgic sound because it was “so unpolished and cool… people weren’t afraid of being a little bit cringe. It was all way more experimental”.
Hailed as “a mysterious girl”, “the hottest on the scene right now” and “the voice of a generation” by fans at her debut show last month, PinkPantheress is seriously having a moment. Which is why it makes sense that London’s hottest record label and creative studio Bone Soda (who have also released a collection of bongs, stash pots and grinders endorsed by Beabadoobee) were keen to link up. Having sent their very own Tommy Gold out and about to support PP on her debut UK tour, Bone Soda threw the ultimate afterparty to celebrate the final date last Thursday night at North London warehouse venue, The Cause.
The party ran right through to 4am, and boasted sets from an epic line-up of DJs including Nia Archives, Mura Masa, Angelita and Xing Xing across three rooms. i-D headed down there, along with photographer Joseph McDermott, to shoot some of the most fun faces and best looks in the crowd. Meet them, and discover what they think you should know about their city, below.
Ola, 21, film director and event manager
Why are you here tonight? I got invited by my friend, also I followed PP since her first ever post. What’s inspiring you at the moment? Connecting people to help them build their network. Tell us what’s happening in London right now that everyone should know about. O’shuun and Yng Blck Creatives networking events. Who’s your favourite person on TikTok? Myself — @ytdasola
Alex Rishridger, 20, designer
Why did you come here tonight? Friends and family. What’s inspiring you at the moment? Me and my own mind. Tell us what’s happening in London that everyone should know about. The loss of subculture.
Alma Dögg Kristinsdottir, 22, creative
Why did you come here tonight? Because I adooooooore PinkPantheress. What’s inspiring you at the moment? Music, culture and food. Tell us what’s happening in London that everyone should know about. The youngins are taking over!!! Watch em!!! Who’s your favourite person on TikTok? @karenhausman = legend.
Nega Brandon, 22, musician and artist
Why did you come here tonight? Only god knows. What’s inspiring you at the moment? My personal life and my mother. Tell us what’s happening in London that everyone should know about. Very, very good music. Who’s your favourite person on TikTok? @ihatetomaustinn – that’s bro.
Matilda White, 24, illustrator
Why did you come here tonight? Cos vibes! What’s inspiring you at the moment? Street art. Tell us what’s happening in London that everyone should know about. 1% tax increase.
Jay “Knives” Lidz, 23, music producer
Why did you come here tonight? My friend is close friends with PP but my interest in production has brought me here. What’s inspiring you at the moment? The underground alt electric scene: SHYGIRL, Coucou Chloe, Sega Bodega, etc. Tell us what’s happening in London that everyone should know about. Cabaret. The Box Soho has always been a focal point of my inspiration. Who’s your favourite person on TikTok? Kyron Hamilton, a friend since youth — comedic relief is the best.
Mustafa Mahmoud, 20, out here
Why did you come here tonight? 2 see my slime shell! What’s inspiring you at the moment? PinkPantheress. Tell us what’s happening in London that everyone should know about. PINKPANTHERESS. Who’s your favourite person on TikTok? @lengurz
Kenya Brown, 22, musician and model
Why did you come here tonight? Because I like PinkPantheress’ music. What’s inspiring you at the moment? Women commanding space within the music industry. Tell us what’s happening in London that everyone should know about. My music coming out soon <3 Who’s your favourite person on TikTok? @francis.bourgeois – trainspotter guy. I love how happy he gets. It brings me joy.
Oniqur, 21, exec producer
Why did you come here tonight? To people watch. What’s inspiring you at the moment? Life can change with one moment. Tell us what’s happening n London that everyone should know about. Friends are always welcomed. Who’s your favourite person on TikTok? @ihatetomaustinn
Gabriel Zahario, 23, musician
Why are you here tonight? Because I got put on the list by Bone Soda. What’s inspiring you at the moment? Joe Rogan and porn stars. Tell us what’s happening in London that everyone should know about. Fire visions.
Riz, 23
Why did you come here tonight? Vibes. What’s inspiring you at the moment? The shorty I’m with. Tell us what’s happening in London that everyone should know about. Tendai… pretty much nan else.
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Credits
Photography Joseph McDermott