Good Bones: Bossi's Powerful Message for Women's Liberation
Images by Mark Leibowitz
With her powerful voice and signature rock sound, the singer and songwriter Bossi returns with her single, "Good Bones," a critique of the patriarchal structures that trap many women in lives built to please a male-dominated society, rather than to fulfill their own desires and aspirations.
“So tie your shoes and slick your hair back / Never let ‘em see you’re a walking heart attack / But come on over,” she sings, a reflection of the personal battle she fought after a breast cancer diagnosis—a moment that forced her to rethink her life and purpose. This challenge led her to create her own story through music.
“In the face of mortality at such a young age, I realized I could no longer neglect my gifts.” shares Bossi, who has beaten breast cancer for the second time. Now, she is focused on sharing her art and message.
“‘Good Bones’ is the story of a woman who shapes herself to fit these societal stereotypes, only to discover that she may be yearning for something of her own. The house, with everything and everyone in it, now feels like a theater set. Yet she continues laboring to maintain the facade rather than risk disappointing others by stepping out of line - illustrating how difficult it can be for women to change their circumstances” the artist explains.
In "Good Bones," Bossi uses the image of an old house with "good bones" to represent the external stability that keeps a seemingly functional structure standing, even though it's full of cracks and shadows inside. The "good bones" are the only thing keeping the lights on—a metaphor suggesting that the appearance of happiness and success is nothing more than a fragile illusion.
As the song progresses, Bossi reinforces the theme of societal facades with a clear warning: "Never let ‘em see you’re a walking heart attack." This line highlights the emotional exhaustion of maintaining appearances that don't reflect one's inner reality.
The chorus introduces the picket fence as a symbol of the American dream, but in this case, it’s made of paper, signifying its fragility and vulnerability. Despite the negative and melancholic undertones, Bossi suggests that the main character isn’t lost, as she has "good bones" underneath it all. She just needs to make the decision and find the courage to follow her desires, rather than those imposed by society, simply because she’s a woman.
Produced by Justin Glasco, renowned for his work with Paris Paloma, Imagine Dragons, and The Lone Bellow, the track is both poignant and uplifting. Musically, the production contrasts with the melancholy of the lyrics, providing a glimmer of hope or even a subtle satire that envelops the deeper message. This dissonance between the musical tone and the lyrics reinforces the idea that, despite the challenges, there is room for self-actualization and change.
This approach comes as no surprise from Bossi, who has remained true to her melodies infused with electric guitar and sounds reminiscent of late '90s and early 2000s rock. Her previous album, “Run with Lions”, serves as further evidence of this musical “leitmotif.”
Thirteen Songs, One Message
"Good Bones" is part of Bossii’s upcoming album, “Tell All the Other Girls, " featuring twelve additional songs. Together, these tracks aim to pave the way for women’s freedom and empowerment—a cause to which Bossi is deeply committed and proudly labels herself an activist.
Bossi explains about her upcoming album, “It takes listeners on a journey through time, beginning with ‘Kiss Me Goodbye,’ a moment of youthful rebellion when women first step out on their own, and continuing with tracks like ‘Good Bones,’ ‘Run Baby Run,’ and ‘Cassandra,’ which explore themes such as domestication, societal expectations, and toxic masculinity—forces that threaten women’s freedom”
In addition to her music, Bossi is a driving force for change through her project, House of Bossi. This dynamic residency program, concert series, and creative hub invites musicians, visual artists, writers, and other visionaries to come together and collaborate. By offering mentorship, resources, and a supportive community, House of Bossi not only amplifies diverse talent but also helps shape the independent arts scene in Los Angeles.
She is also an active member of organizations such as Nexus Global and the Impact Guild, and she collaborated with the United Nations to co-write and perform the original anthem for World Mental Health Day during the height of the pandemic.
Though her path in the music industry hasn’t been particularly long, it is undeniably solid, with "Good Bones" that Bossi continues to build upon through her dedication to creating a community of artists. This constant and limitless personal growth transcends her music and leaves a legacy that extends to those around her.