Naomi King On the Making Of “Fetish”
Is there a person/event that stimulated the creation of "Fetish?"
“Fetish” was a fun song I wrote for myself and anyone else who's been through the same thing--being pursued by someone who you know full well is only interested in your body; in crossing you off a bucket list. They act like they genuinely want more, but the reality is they'll go running first thing in the morning.
It was inspired by a particular friend of mine, who at the time was pursuing me. And boy, should I have listened to myself. Just a few months later he proved himself to be exactly what I knew he was.
What was your favorite moment in making the music video?
The making of the music video for “Fetish” was so much fun. I built the bloodbath scene from a tub found on Craigslist and a bunch of candelabras from various thrift stores across Vancouver. I set up the entire thing in my friend's garage and froze my ass off because we had to use the garden hose to fill the tub. My videographer was splattering me with blood between every take, and while I was shivering and shaking in the ice water, he was dripping with sweat from the candles. So that will always come to mind! But the other scenes in the video have just as fond memories -- I absolutely love the look and colours of the 'manic pixie dream girl' scene, but for the group shot -- a couple of those people are actually fans! I posted on Instagram to see if anyone wanted to join in for the video shoot, and I managed to get a couple in! That will always make it special.
How does this song fit into your overall artistic vision and what can listeners expect from you in the future?
I think “Fetish” gives a good feel of what I'm like as a musician, at least when it comes to rock. I like catchy tunes and lyrics that are real, raw, and actually mean something. I also like harmonies and vocal layering, and strong guitars, but that being said... my music really varies. I can go from quiet and cozy to loud and angry, to epic and fantasy-inspired. It just depends on the day.
What is your songwriting process like? How do you usually start crafting a new song?
I only write when it happens naturally, and when it does, the lyrics, melody, and basic accompaniment chords happen at the same time, whether I'm writing with a guitar in hand or at the piano. Ever since I was nine, I just sit with the instrument and sing to myself, and it happens at the same time. I'll usually have the full song, lyrics and melody, done within an hour, and from there, that's when the real fun begins. Producing. Recording. Playing around. I enjoy working around the skeleton to build up the song!
How do you continuously grow and evolve as an artist?
By living, and experiencing, and just... paying attention, I guess. I try to slow down and listen for ideas and inspiration, sometimes when listening to music, but also just in life. I'm also a digital and tattoo artist as well as an author, and I can honestly tell you that simply living and experiencing more years really adds to who you are as an artist. I like to tell stories, whether in art, writing, or song. With every new album I try to do something different and do something better. Onwards and up!
