Meet Cassyette: The genre-defying rock star who brought screamcore to Eurovision

Cassyette is a rising star in the music industry, known for her genre-defying sound that blends elements of rock, emo, pop, and metal. Born Cassy Brooking in the mid-1990s in Essex, she has faced numerous challenges throughout her life, particularly after the unexpected death of her father in 2020. This tragic event led her to struggle with substance abuse and mental health issues, including bipolar disorder. Despite these hardships, Cassyette channeled her experiences into her debut album, which features 15 raw and emotional tracks. She describes her music as a reflection of her journey through darkness, with each song representing different aspects of her emotional state. For instance, 'Sugar Rush' captures the exhilarating highs of addiction, while 'Porcelain' confronts the delicate nature of life. The album is aptly titled 'This World [Expletive] Sucks,' a testament to her anger and frustration during that tumultuous time. Cassyette's music has resonated with many listeners, as evidenced by the millions of streams her songs have garnered. Growing up, Cassyette was educated in a convent and initially played the clarinet. However, her passion for music truly ignited when she discovered iconic rock bands like Paramore, Korn, and Black Sabbath. As a queer teenager in a strict religious environment, she often felt like an outsider, but the music of these bands provided her with a sense of belonging. A chance encounter with a neighbor, who happened to be a music producer, opened the door for her to explore her vocal talents. After studying songwriting at university, she began performing as a club DJ, which allowed her to experiment with electronic sounds that would later influence her music. During the pandemic, Cassyette gained significant popularity on TikTok, where her unique style and powerful voice caught the attention of music fans and industry veterans alike. Her early singles, such as 'Dear Goth' and 'Prison Purse,' attracted the interest of legendary artists like Debbie Harry and Liam Howlett, leading to opportunities to perform at major music festivals like Glastonbury and Download. She even toured with Bryan Adams, where she showcased her softer, more heartfelt songs, forming a genuine connection with the rock legend. In addition to her solo work, Cassyette recently co-wrote a song for the Eurovision Song Contest, titled 'Doomsday Blue,' for Irish singer Bambie Thug. The project was born out of a spontaneous idea they had while watching the contest together the previous year. The song ultimately placed sixth, and the experience allowed Cassyette to connect with former Eurovision contestants Jedward, who have become enthusiastic supporters of her music. Cassyette admires their talent and has expressed interest in collaborating with them in the future. Her music embodies a fusion of pop and rock, reflecting her diverse musical influences. Critics have praised her debut album, highlighting its potential to shape the future of rock music. One standout track, 'When She Told Me,' poignantly captures the moment she learned of her father's passing, describing a surreal experience where her world felt like it was turning upside down. Cassyette views music as a form of therapy, using songwriting as a way to process her emotions and experiences. She encourages her fans to seek help when needed, emphasizing that they have the strength to overcome their struggles. With her powerful voice and authentic lyrics, Cassyette is making a significant mark in the music world, and her journey is just beginning.