Hayley Williams Wants to Explore Her Identity Beyond Paramore: “It’s Time”

Hayley Williams in Nashville in June 2025.
Credit :

Erika Goldring/Getty

NEED TO KNOW

• Hayley Williams released her third solo album, Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party, in August.
• In September, she announced that Paramore was on a break.
• On December 2, she discussed her solo career on Amy Poehler’s podcast.

Hayley Williams is candidly discussing her decision to take a hiatus from Paramore. On December 2, she guest-starred on Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast, where she addressed her upcoming solo tour in support of her new album, Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party.

In September, the 36-year-old singer confirmed that Paramore is currently on a break but emphasized that the band is not disbanded. Since then, she has released her solo album and is actively promoting her new tour.

During her conversation with Poehler, Williams shared that her latest work has catalyzed a personal journey of self-discovery. “I’m finding myself really nervous because I think I, for my own good, really need to understand who I am outside of the band,” she said, adding, “It’s time.” She also noted the looming milestone of turning 40 as a motivating factor in her need for self-exploration.

Hayley Williams on “Good Hang with Amy Poehler”.

Good Hang with Amy Poehler/YouTube

Williams expressed enthusiasm for her upcoming performances, noting that they may challenge audience expectations. “I feel that, like, it’s a huge responsibility to be a mouthpiece for a group of people,” she remarked about her role in Paramore. “We’re all very different individuals. I wanna speak for myself.”

She also shared how her solo career has opened opportunities to connect with women, a demographic she felt was often absent in her earlier experiences. Reflecting on being the only female member in Paramore, she explained, “I really think it is something to be the only girl in a gang.”

Throughout her journey, Williams has strived to present a “very neutral” perspective in her lyrics. By her fourth album, she felt empowered to explore femininity more freely, a realization she attributes to growing confidence and maturity.

Zac Farro, Hayley Williams, and Taylor York of Paramore in Las Vegas in September 2024.

Kevin Mazur/Getty

In a previous interview, Williams praised her Paramore bandmates, calling them “the best musicians in the world.” She underscored the importance of nurturing different aspects of her identity, which she had previously set aside. As she embarks on her solo journey, Williams has recently received multiple Grammy nominations, reflecting the success of her artistic growth.