Laura Veirs’ ‘Pulse’: When Indie Rock Meets Iron – A Cultural Barbell
There’s something undeniably captivating about Laura Veirs’ latest single, ‘Pulse.’ But it’s not just the jazzy saxophone or the lyrics hinting at anticipation—it’s the visuals. In the music video, Veirs isn’t just performing; she’s deadlifting, planking, and kettlebell-swinging her way through a home gym. Personally, I think this is more than a quirky concept—it’s a statement. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Veirs, at 52, challenges the stereotype of the ‘gym rat’ as a young, male domain. She’s not just lifting weights; she’s lifting cultural expectations.
The Jane Fonda Surrealism Effect
Veirs describes the video as ‘Jane Fonda surrealism,’ and I couldn’t agree more. There’s a deliberate nod to the aerobics craze of the ’80s, but with a modern, feminist twist. What many people don’t realize is that Jane Fonda’s workout videos were as much about empowerment as they were about fitness. Veirs taps into that legacy, but with a 2026 spin. The Silly String? Pure whimsy. The blended family joining in? A reminder that strength—physical and otherwise—is communal. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just a music video; it’s a manifesto wrapped in red high-tops and silver pigtails.
Weightlifting as a Metaphor (and a Movement)
Veirs’ assertion that ‘weightlifting is for everyone’ isn’t just a catchy line—it’s a cultural critique. Traditionally, gyms have been coded as masculine spaces, often intimidating for women, especially those over 50. But Veirs isn’t just breaking a sweat; she’s breaking barriers. In my opinion, this is where the video’s political edge shines. It’s not heavy-handed, but it’s unapologetic. The fact that she’s lifting heavier weights than ever before at 52? That’s not just a personal achievement; it’s a middle finger to ageism and sexism.
The Intersection of Fun and Politics
One thing that immediately stands out is Veirs’ insistence that ‘political and fun can go together.’ This is a lesson many artists could learn. Too often, activism in art feels like a lecture, but Veirs makes it feel like a party. The beachy vibe of ‘Pulse’ contrasts with the gritty gym setting, creating a tension that’s both jarring and joyful. What this really suggests is that you don’t have to sacrifice accessibility for impact. It’s a masterclass in how to make a point without preaching.
Broader Implications: The Gym as a Cultural Battleground
If we zoom out, Veirs’ video is part of a larger trend: the reclamation of spaces traditionally deemed off-limits. From yoga studios to CrossFit boxes, fitness has become a battleground for identity politics. What’s interesting is how Veirs doesn’t just reclaim the gym—she redefines it. Her video isn’t about fitting into a mold; it’s about reshaping the mold itself. This raises a deeper question: What other spaces are ripe for this kind of cultural takeover?
The Future of Indie Rock (and Gym Culture)
Looking ahead, I can’t help but wonder if Veirs’ approach will inspire other artists to blend the personal with the political in such a seamless way. Her album, Temple Songs, drops on August 14, and I’m curious if the rest of it will carry this same energy. As for gym culture? Maybe we’ll see more silver-haired rockstars gracing the weight racks. A detail that I find especially interesting is how Veirs’ video feels both timeless and timely—a rare feat in an era of fleeting trends.
Final Thoughts: Strength in Surprising Places
In the end, ‘Pulse’ isn’t just a song or a video—it’s a reminder that strength comes in many forms. Veirs’ ability to merge music, fitness, and feminism into something cohesive is a testament to her artistry. From my perspective, this is what indie rock should aspire to: not just challenging norms, but doing it with style, humor, and a whole lot of Silly String.
So, the next time you hit the gym, remember: you’re not just lifting weights—you’re lifting expectations. And if Laura Veirs can do it in Converse and pigtails, so can you.
