It's a tragedy that still echoes through the ages – toxic masculinity's destructive grip on young minds, crushing dreams, and fuelling violence. British singer-songwriter Paris Paloma cuts straight to the heart of this crisis, describing it as a "massive tragedy" that affects us all, in an unflinching interview at the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival.
Paloma's 2023 viral hit 'Labour' shook the world with its raw honesty about women's unseen workloads – and now, in the wake of online movements like the 'manosphere' and 'tradwifedom', which peddle toxic ideology, her message is more urgent than ever. The singer-songwriter worries that content creators are sowing discord by urging women to abandon careers and financial independence.
Her long-awaited second album, 'The Fatal Flaw', promises to dissect these issues with surgical precision. Paloma reveals that tracks like 'Pyrrhus' draw on Greek mythology's darkest corners – exploring the societal factors that drive young men to violence. And in 'Pre-Raphaelite', released today (24 July 2026), she flips the script, celebrating female figures from the iconic art movement and challenging the misogynistic norms that belittle women's appearances.
Paloma credits Kate Bush's powerful 'Army Dreamers' as a key influence – highlighting the tragic consequences of societal pressures on young men. "No one wins," she laments. "Young boys are thrown to the wolves, they enlist as soldiers and die for no reason." It's a stark reminder that toxic masculinity is a collective misfortune – not just harming women, but also ensnaring the men trapped within its destructive cycle.
Paloma's music has been a beacon of hope for many, with 'Labour' used on TikTok to expose instances of oppression and inspire women to break free from abusive relationships. Her fans have shared powerful testimonials, crediting her song with giving them the strength to leave toxic situations – underscoring the profound impact of Paloma's music on lives around the world.