Q&A: Goldie Boutilier Turns Vulnerability Into Strength in New Album, ‘Goldie Boutilier Presents…Goldie Montana’
INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW
☆ BY FAITH LUEVANOS ☆
Photo By Greg Swales
THROUGH PERSERVERANCE AND INTERNAL REFLECTION, GOLDIE BOUTILIER – is introducing the world to the person that she, and many others, have needed in their life: “Goldie Montana.” The singer/songwriter’s alter ego comes from a place of healing, “Goldie Montana,” being who Boutilier is now, with a hint of Tony Montana from Scarface.
As fans become acquainted with “Goldie Montana,” they hear through her adept storytelling the hardships she has endured and how those pivotal moments have shaped her into the powerful woman she is today.
Her recent single, “I Can’t,” explores the complex emotions of wanting revenge while also yearning to move forward and heal from the experience, yet lacking the internal strength to do either. “I Can’t” is an emotional and rare track, one that acknowledges the struggles of moving forward, while also providing solace for those who just aren’t ready yet.
The Luna Collective received the opportunity to chat with Boutilier about her new album, her experience on tour with Orville Peck, the creation of “Goldie Montana,” and more. Read the full interview below.
Photo By Greg Swales
LUNA: "I Can't" explores wanting revenge and healing, yet not having the strength for either. As the song opens up a space for discussion for those who are experiencing similar feelings, what do you hope listeners take away from it?
BOUTILIER: Just that it’s okay to admit you’re not strong enough to walk away at the moment. Feel what you need to feel and then throw on “Goldie Montana” and let her remind you who you are.
LUNA: You've been receiving amazing co-signs from Zane Lowe, Elton John, and Kelly Clarkson. How does it feel knowing that your music is making a very quick impact and spreading like wildfire?
BOUTILIER: I’m not new to this. I’ve been at this for almost two decades now, so to finally be seen, heard, and receive recognition like that from people I admire as much as them is really something indescribable.
LUNA: As a songwriter, is it easy to get into such a vulnerable headspace while writing? Or was it something that took practice and time since you started your music career?
BOUTILIER: My writing process really starts outside the studio, inside my journal. I write in it every day about things I’m going through or things I’ve been through. Doing it that way, when I’m alone and most comfortable with being vulnerable, allows me to really get to the center of all of it.
LUNA: What can fans expect from your new album?
BOUTILIER: You’ve already met my alter ego, “Goldie Montana.” She was released July 23, so you can expect more of that. She’s a character I created based on my life, but also Al Pacino (Tony Montana) in Scarface. She’s who I would present as in the past when I needed to survive.
LUNA: What was your experience like opening for Orville Peck? Were there any lessons learned on the road?
BOUTILIER: During my tour with Orville, I learned how hard a worker he truly was. He never stopped, always focused, and was kind to everyone he met. His community of fans reflected his personality perfectly: inclusive sweethearts who loved music and had an amazing fashion sense. I’m grateful he took a chance on me, and I’ll always be thankful for that.
LUNA: When did your relationship with music begin, and how did it grow into what it is today?
BOUTILIER: My relationship with music began when I was a little kid. Growing up on Cape Breton, a very musical island, I listened to a lot of Celtic music. As a child, I was very busy, and I’m not sure my parents knew exactly what to do with me, so they enrolled me in local summer theater programs. That’s where I fell in love with performing.
LUNA: Who or what are some sources of inspiration for you?
BOUTILIER: My source of inspiration has mostly come from vintage cinema, like Scorsese’s Casino and Scarface. I based this album, Goldie Boutilier Presents… Goldie Montana, on an alter ego inspired by the character Tony Montana, a controversial underdog turned kingpin. I was always underestimated.
LUNA: Has making this album and introducing the world to Goldie Montana been a unique source of closure as you regain control of your life?
BOUTILIER: Absolutely. And in many ways, introducing “Goldie Montana” has been a powerful act of reclamation for Goldie Boutilier. This album isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a declaration of identity, agency, and creative freedom. For me, stepping into the persona of Goldie Montana has been like stepping into my power after years of being misunderstood, sidelined, and creatively restrained. I’m closing the door on past chapters that were marked by heartbreak or loss of identity. I know who I am now.
LUNA: Lastly, what drives you to make music?
BOUTILIER: I make music because it allows me to turn vulnerability into strength, memory into art, and longing into something lush and cinematic.
