TTSSFU, the project of Tasmin Nicole Stephens, talks about her experience at SXSW, her connection to Manchester, and the energy behind her live performances.

In this conversation, the Manchester based artist reflects on her first impressions of the United States, describing the openness of audiences and the feeling of being part of a wider global music community. She speaks about playing shows where people are attentive and engaged, and how that balance changes the experience on stage.

Joined by her live band, Matt Deakin on drums, Michael Cottom on bass, and Harrison Bell on guitar, she also speaks about the dynamic of performing together and how that translates into the live set.

The interview also touches on her connection to Manchester, a city with a strong musical identity where many artists know each other and collaborate. She describes this environment as a place where musicians naturally come together, shaping her process and her perspective. The atmosphere of the city, including its weather and daily rhythm, also influences the tone of her music.

A key moment in the conversation focuses on the song “I Hope You Die,” exploring why it has become a central part of her live set. Originally recorded in a different style, the track is transformed on stage into a more direct and energetic performance, allowing her to release tension and connect more directly with the audience. She also speaks about the physical and emotional release that comes from performing live, and how certain songs become anchors within a set, giving the artist and the audience something to build toward.

The conversation closes with a live performance of “I Hope You Die,” recorded during SXSW 2026, capturing the energy of the project in a live setting.

We publish this interview as part of our TMN® Exclusive Series, where young creators document and reflect on the voices shaping today’s music scene. These stories help us understand what creativity means for a new generation, real people, real moments, real growth.

Read the full interview with TTSSFU on our blog.

📍 Recorded in Austin, TX during SXSW 2026

🎙️ Interview by Pablo Herrera

📸 Photo cover by Pablo Herrera

💿 Label: Partisan Records

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