Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell, the acclaimed sibling duo behind some of today’s most soul-stirring music, recently opened up about their creative process in crafting the emotional ballad “What Was I Made For?” for the upcoming Barbie movie. In a candid conversation on Deadline’s Crew Call podcast, the pair shared insights into their inspirations, the collaborative process with director Greta Gerwig, and the deeply personal journey that fueled the creation of the song.
The track, nominated for Best Original Song at the Oscars, serves as the soulful centerpiece of the Barbie movie, capturing the essence of the titular character’s introspective journey. Eilish revealed that the song emerged from a dark and challenging period in her life, emphasizing the therapeutic power of music to navigate through difficult emotions.
Reflecting on their collaboration with Gerwig, O’Connell highlighted the director’s inclusive approach, which allowed them the creative freedom to explore different musical avenues. Gerwig’s encouragement and trust in their artistic vision provided the perfect environment for Eilish and O’Connell to channel their emotions into the songwriting process.
The moment when “What Was I Made For?” plays in the film, as Barbie meets her maker, Ruth Handler, pays homage to Eilish’s own introspective moments during her concerts. The nostalgic footage of childhood memories woven into the scene adds a poignant layer of connection to the character’s journey of self-discovery.
Describing their creative process as akin to Jackson Pollock’s “automatic art,” O’Connell emphasized the importance of spontaneity and intuition in music-making. Eilish echoed this sentiment, praising O’Connell’s instinctive approach to playing instruments, which she believes is crucial in capturing authentic emotions in their music.
Their familial connection to Barbie, with their father having worked as a carpenter for Mattel, adds a personal touch to their involvement in the project. Looking ahead, Eilish and O’Connell expressed excitement about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead in their creative journey.
As “What Was I Made For?” continues to resonate with audiences around the world, Eilish and O’Connell’s collaboration stands as a testament to the transformative power of music in storytelling. With their unique blend of vulnerability and creativity, the duo has crafted a heartfelt anthem that captures the essence of Barbie’s journey and leaves a lasting impression on listeners everywhere.