Introducing #118 - Tatum
Let us introduce you to South African dark pop artist TATUM, who has just released her single ‘Fever’ - a track about a toxic relationship on the path of self-destruction. She took a moment to talk to us about signing to Primary Talent and how the new track came together.
So, your new single ‘Fever’ is out now, can you tell us what the track is about?
It's about the darkness and ambivalence of being in love with a dangerous sociopathic person. Being so caught up that it becomes like an accident you can see happening but can not stop. It is also about seeing beauty in the darkness and melancholy of such a relationship.
There is a reference to the ‘Divine Wind’, you tell us what that means and how it relates to the song?
It is a direct translation of kamikaze and signifies how when caught up with the wrong person, we often know that it will end in flames but we are unable to turn back and think straight enough to save ourselves from the disaster.
You have just signed to Primary Talent, how does that feel? How did that partnership come about?
I'm obviously super happy because they have some of my favourite artists on their roster. They saw me on Record of the Day and Record of the week.
There is a sort of alternative pop style to your music, who do you consider to be your key influences as an artist?
My music is influenced by a lot more than just other music... I take a lot from art, books and movies , like Stephen King. Musically I'm really into Labyrinth and Nothing but Thieves right now and I have always looked up to the acts I grew up with like Lana Del Rey and Bat For Lashes. I also have a great love for old school Jazz like Nina Simone and Billie Holiday.
Now the track is out there, what are your plans for the next few months?
My debut EP "Bloodsport" is out soon on Bad Future Records so I'm really looking forward to that. I'll be in the studio a lot over the next few months writing and recording loads of new music. I'm also focusing on my live show, as I'm performing at a few festivals, and I'll be releasing new tracks regularly and making music videos.