image via Facebook: Boygenius

By Josh McCann

It’s safe to say that Boygenius had an amazing year! The trio recently received six Grammy noms, including album of the year. “The Record” has been out since March but it feels like it’s still gaining momentum. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or new to the music, here’s six of the biggest moments from their huge year!

Rolling Stone Cover!

The hype started with the cover. The group appeared on the February cover of Rolling Stone, dressed as Nirvana. The in-depth interview had some cool stories behind making the album. Lucy Dacus told the story of them driving and missing a turn. This inspired the lyrics to “Leonard Cohen.” Rolling Stone has been my fav mag since I became a subscriber in 06. It still provides a major spotlight for acts, and this kicked off the album cycle in a big way.

“The Record” is released!

After releasing their self-titled EP in 2018, there was a lot of anticipation with a full- length album. “The Record” showcased each members talent for songwriting, guitar playing, and lyrics. There’s humor in dark situations. “$20” and “Satanist” really rock. I love some good lyrics! “You said you wanted to feel alive, so we went to the beach/You were born in July ‘95, in a deadly heat,” Lucy Dacus sings on “True Blue.”

Sold out tour!

Night after night they lifted each other up, played to sold out crowds. Pittsburgh was sold out and I didn’t get to go! But from watching online, they had so much fun. Phoebe even opened for Taylor Swift while in-between gigs with Boygenius.

“Not Strong Enough” dominated alt radio

The single was all over alt radio, becoming the cornerstone of the album. “The black hole opened in the kitchen,” and there’s no turning back now. It’s one of the biggest singles of the year. Especially on Alt Nation/Sirius XM. It has a perfect mix of each members vocals, along with a catchy chorus. This is strong enough to win awards!

SNL!

It couldn’t have been timed any better. A couple days before SNL, they received six Grammy nominations. For their anticipated performance, the band played “Not Strong Enough.” They dressed in suits, with the drum logo in the Beatles font. It was very cool. It’s one of the songs that’s even better live. I think some fans, including myself, thought their new single “Cool About It” would be played. But I changed my mind after the “Satanist” performance. It was so rocked out, with Julien Baker going nuts on the guitar. She threw it in the air at the end of the song. We remember when Phoebe smashed one on SNL, which was also incredible. For some weird reason people didn’t like it. But a lot of people (like myself) enjoyed it! Rock and roll!

Six Grammy Noms!

Despite the huge year, it was still surprising to see. The Grammys are known to screw over huge bands. But they got it right this time. Six noms, and odds are good they will get a performance slot. The 2024 Grammys take place February 4th. It will feel like the culmination of the album cycle. What’s next for the band? It’s interesting because the trio is just as popular as their respective solo acts. It’s easy to say they have new material in the works. But let’s enjoy this night first.