Paramore frontwoman Hayley Williams has teamed up with photographer Phoenix Johnson for an intimate new photobook titled "HAYLEY," offering fans a rare glimpse into the rockstar's private world. The collaborative project, published by Friends Edition and Post Atlantic, features photographs taken at Williams' home between 2018 and 2019, presenting one of music's biggest stars in an unguarded and authentic light.
Phoenix Johnson, who has built his reputation creating intimate portraits that feel expansive, brought his distinctive style to the project. Known for focusing on the soft, vulnerable aspects of the human form – the nape of the neck, direct gazes, the arch of a foot – Johnson has previously worked with high-profile clients including Sandy Liang, Loewe, Marc Jacobs, and Playboy. In Williams, he found what he describes as the perfect subject for his artistic vision.
The collaboration began organically during Paramore's "After Laughter" album cycle, when Johnson was working as the band's stylist. "Phoenix was always taking great behind-the-scenes pictures on his film camera during the After Laughter cycle," Williams explained. "He was styling us in those days, so at fittings, he'd often get extra photos of me that we could archive or use for whatever." The singer noted that the home where the photos were taken holds special significance for her during that particular period of her life.
Williams first encountered Johnson at bandmate Taylor York's house during a fitting for the "After Laughter" album photoshoot. Drummer Zac Farro, who had previously worked with Johnson on his side project HalfNoise, recommended the photographer as a good fit for the band. "I had so much fun wearing clothes that year because it was the first time we'd worked with someone who loved independent fashion designers and vintage," Williams recalled. "He's actually why I began collecting rare vintage band tees."
Reflecting on the images from 2018-2019, Williams offered a candid perspective on that chapter of her life. "Man, all this girl wanted was a floral gin, funk music on vinyl, and sex that could make her believe in love again. Not much has changed. I just drink a lot less!" she said with characteristic humor. On a more serious note, she expressed gratitude for having visual documentation of that transformative period. "I am so thankful I have documentation of this time in my life. Particularly the photos where I can tell I felt at home with myself. I was very much in my body for the first time in my adult life."
When asked about her concept of home, Williams provided a thoughtful response that goes beyond physical spaces. "The faces of people who actually know me and can call me on my bullshit," she said, emphasizing the importance of authentic relationships. She also shared memories of her first apartment, which featured "a poster of Henry Rollins above the defunct fireplace" and a balcony where she would sit with her high school friend and roommate Hannah. The apartment included a futon from Big Lots, which Williams maintains provided "the comfiest sleep I'll ever have," and a red couch with a pullout bed for visiting musicians passing through town.
Regarding her living habits, Williams revealed she prefers consistency, especially after periods of extensive travel. "When I travel a lot, I like coming home to familiarity. It's like putting on Gilmore Girls for the 100th time and knowing the map of Stars Hollow by heart," she explained. While she's open to changing art and evolving details, she humorously noted her reluctance to move furniture: "God forbid I stub my toe in the middle of the night on the iron leg of a footstool I decided to move on a whim."
The singer also discussed family connections to the past, mentioning a treasured patchwork quilt made by one of her great-great-great grandmothers. "When I was really young and first got it from my Granny, I didn't know shit and threw it in the wash," she admitted. "That blanket has survived a lot, but nothing so traumatic as the 21st century." When asked about a leopard mentioned in the photographs, Williams clarified with typical wit: "It wasn't a real leopard."
The photobook "HAYLEY" represents a unique artistic collaboration between two creative professionals who found common ground in their appreciation for authenticity and intimate storytelling. The project captures Williams during a pivotal moment of personal growth and artistic evolution, offering fans an unprecedented look at the person behind the public persona. The book is available for purchase at hayleywilliams.net, providing fans with access to this rare documentation of one of rock music's most compelling figures in her most vulnerable and genuine moments.
