pure xtc is the brainchild of Kansas City-based artist Taylor Hughes, who began her musical journey as a drummer in Baltimore, MD, before transitioning to a solo career in 2020. Since then, pure xtc is known for captivating storytelling and dark, ambitious themes, her music transcends the traditional pop mold.
Her latest single, "Hurt Me Bad," delves into the emotional toll of chasing ambition and the sacrifices that come with it. Featured in the short film Rangoon, which pure xtc also scored.
Earlier in 2024, pure xtc released "Fall Apart", the first in a trilogy of singles accompanied by short films. The second installment, "Mood Ring", followed in the summer, in collaboration with Montucky Cold Snacks, and the trilogy will conclude with the highly anticipated final track, "Drive," due out in early 2025. "Fall Apart" has found its way into retail soundscapes across the UK and Europe, including in iconic brands like Birkenstock and Harvey Nichols.
pure xtc has shared the stage with Fletcher, Slayyyter, Daya, Jenny Lewis, and Dashboard Confessional. Her music has been spotlighted multiple times on Apple Music’s New in Alternative and Proud Radio. her tracks have appeared on major platforms like ABC 27 and Fox 21. Additionally, her song "get lost" was featured in the award-winning comedy Midwest Skidmark, which premiered in select AMC theaters.
