GreenWoodz on using emo-rap roots to innovate Quebec’s music scene [Interview]

Sep 6

Have you come across the "30-year cycle" concept? It suggests that trends from the past often make a comeback after a few decades.

With the revival of early 2000s styles, commonly referred to as Y2K, modern artists are blending the nostalgic sounds of that era with contemporary elements, giving a fresh take on what was once an expressive genre for a generation of misunderstood youth.

Coming from the Launaderie region of Quebec, Tommy Boisvert, known by his stage name GreenWoodz, taps into emo culture, using it as a foundation to craft his unique sound.

Performing mainly in French with occasional English lyrics, GreenWoodz took the stage during the 22nd Festival de Musique Émergente (FME) on a rainy Friday night. Far from being hindered by the rain, his performance was energized by it.

In an interview, he shared his inspirations, creative process, and thoughts on blending past and future sounds in Quebec’s evolving music scene.

Thanks for joining us today! To start, can you tell us a bit about who GreenWoodz is and what drives you to make music?

I grew up in rural Quebec and developed a love for music early on. Making music wasn’t about gaining popularity for me—it was purely about expressing myself. I wanted my voice to be heard, and unexpectedly, many people resonated with my message, which eventually led me to turn this passion into a career. My music is deeply personal, and I often write about past struggles, like difficult relationships and substance abuse. Fun fact, my last name, Boisvert, translates to “green woods” in English, which influenced my artistic identity. At its core, my music reflects the life of a small-town guy, trying to share his world.

What inspires your creativity, and how has the emo rap genre helped you express your emotions as an artist?

I connected with emo rap early on because it gave me a space to be vulnerable and raw with my feelings.

Now that I’m older, my inspirations have evolved, and I’m branching out musically. While I started with emo rap, I’m now blending a mix of genres—folk, pop, and more—stretching the boundaries of what my music can be.

Your work often touches on resilience and growth. Can you share a key moment in your life that shaped your artistic path?

I went through a very toxic relationship, which left me with a lot of emotional scars. The psychological abuse I experienced was something I needed to address through my music.

After going through that, I turned to drugs as a way to cope. This period gave me a new perspective on life, and it heavily influenced my music.

Although it was a dark time, I wanted to channel that pain into something meaningful and use it to heal.

How do you see your music contributing to or shaking up Quebec’s music scene?

The Quebec music scene has been fairly stagnant for the past 10 to 15 years. I want to be part of the new generation of artists bringing fresh energy. My goal is to raise the bar for Quebec’s mainstream music, making it more dynamic and relevant to younger audiences.

Though people know me as an emo rapper, I see myself as a pop artist who isn’t confined by genre. I’m exploring new styles and aiming to be someone who pushes boundaries and redefines the scene.

That’s a great mindset. As your music evolves, from your early EP to Late Nights and Heartbreaks and your latest TPL, what are your goals for your next project? Any new music in the works?

For my next project, I want to take things to the next level and reach a wider audience. My music has always reflected my personal growth, and with this project, I hope to show how I’ve evolved as an artist.

I plan to mix emo rap with folk rock and country influences, creating something that defies easy categorization. I’m looking forward to exploring new directions and broadening my sound.

As you continue to grow as an artist, what message or feeling do you hope your listeners take away from your music?

Ultimately, I want people to feel seen and understood when they listen to my music. My hope is that my lyrics resonate with listeners, offering comfort in both difficult and joyful times, much like music did for me when I first started.

I want my songs to help others process their own experiences, offering the same kind of support that music gave me when I needed it most.

Edward Morton

Edward Morton is a passionate music blogger known for his insightful reviews and eclectic taste. With a background in both classical music and modern production, Edward brings a unique perspective to his writing, blending technical knowledge with a deep appreciation for all genres. He started his blog, "Norton's Notes," in 2015, quickly gaining a dedicated following for his honest, detailed critiques and his ability to uncover hidden gems in the music world.

Edward grew up in a musical family in Seattle, where he learned to play the piano and guitar at a young age. His love for music led him to study music theory and composition at the University of Washington. After graduating, he worked as a freelance music producer, which gave him an insider's view of the industry and fueled his desire to share his insights through writing.

Edward's writing is known for its eloquence and depth, often exploring the emotional and cultural contexts of the music he reviews. He is a regular contributor to several well-known music magazines and websites, and his work has been featured in Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, and NPR Music.

In addition to his writing, Edward is an avid vinyl collector and hosts a weekly podcast where he interviews musicians and industry insiders. His ability to connect with artists and convey their stories has made his podcast a favorite among music enthusiasts.

Outside of his professional life, Edward enjoys hiking in the Pacific Northwest, attending live concerts, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. His passion for music and his commitment to sharing it with the world continue to inspire his readers and listeners alike.