Tor James Faulkner unveils his new single, “Oh, Freddy!”: a horror-pop track inspired by cult films, discussing impending battles and creative liberation.
1- How would you describe your new song to someone who hasn’t heard it yet? What emotions do you want to convey?
Disco horror-pop that tells the story of an imminent battle with Freddy Krueger. But it’s also kind of a love song to Freddy. I’ve had a life-long love affair with the “A Nightmare on Elm Street” franchise and this song is my way of expressing that love.
2– What was the main inspiration for the song? Can you share personal stories or influences that guided you?
I first saw one of the Elm Street movies when I was about 4 (I realise how inappropriate this was haha). I believe it was “A Nightmare on Elm Street 2” that I saw first saw.
Ever since then, I’ve been fascinated by horror, dreams but I think most importantly the sound and music used in the Elm Street franchise. It’s incredibly well done, it manages to combine beauty and horror so well. You also hear this in a lot of horror video games too like Silent Hill.
So keeping all that in mind, I wanted to put all that into a pop song that maybe wouldn’t feel out of place on something like Stranger Things but could also be something kids could have on at their school’s Halloween party while bobbing for apples.
3- How did the song come about? Were there any collaborations?
The song is part of my album “Glitter Bug” and the idea behind that whole album was just to sit down by myself and write whatever comes to mind. The whole record is basically a look at what it’s like inside my brain.
Freddy lives in my brain, rent free. As he does for many horror fans.
So, it was part of that process of sitting down and just letting the music flow.
During my time as a child performer, everything was manicured, preened and tweaked to perfection. Hair had to be perfect, had to hit all the notes just so. Had to pick songs for the “target audience” and all that malarkey.
So, there was something extremely liberating in allowing myself to write music that was about stuff I actually enjoy and experience on a day to day basis. There’s something fun about colouring outside the lines, right? This is my version of that.
4- Which artists or experiences influenced your sound?
At the moment I’m really inspired by Lola Young and Doja Cat. These are 2 artists who right out of the gate were not afraid to show the world exactly who they are.
Vocally I love old school singers like Cilla Black and Karen Carpenter.
But I really love girl groups, disco music and rap.
5- Is there a particular moment related to the creation of the song that you remember with pleasure or satisfaction?
Yes, when I came up with the slightly wonky melody.
There’s a few straights bars and then there’s those little up and down climbs, in the verses.
Then the chorus is quite punchy but the long notes are supposed to represent a scream or terror.
I thought it encapsulated what it’s like to doze in and out of the waking world and dream-land quite well. Plus I think the melody is a little ambiguous of whether this person beats Freddy.
6- What emotions do you hope to convey to the public?
“Oh, Freddy!” is obviously quite a silly song in a lot of ways – but I think it could also bring a message of hope and self confidence. Whatever you’re facing you can ultimately overcome it.
7- What can we expect from the future? Do you have any news coming?
In the next few weeks, the deluxe edition of my album “Reflection 2: the Other Side of the Mirror” is due out. There should also be a mini holiday album called “XMAS!” on it’s way out too.
I’m planning a club tour also.
8- What message would you like to give to those who follow you or discover you for the first time?
If you’re being chased by a super natural dream demon, be sure to dress appropriately for the occasion.
Also, thank you so much for all the support.
