Goldilox discusses how Catherine Tramell from Basic Instinct inspired her cinematic new video
The Canadian artist shows chilling composure in her most self-assured single yet.
Building upon her acclaimed repertoire of slick alternative pop (think of similarly smooth contemporaries Banks or Charlotte OC), the singer-songwriter weaves an angsty tale of a romance more bitter than sweet. “I can’t fix my problem,” murmurs Goldilox. “’Cause you’re my f*ckin’ problem.”
Following the likes of "Michael’s Song", "Decision" and the club-ready "Ketamine", "Touch You Where It Hurts" deviates from her recent unabashed pop for more bass and a moodier tone – with visuals to match. Centred around the theme of revenge, the stunning video channels twisted female leads such as Catherine Tramell in crime thriller Basic Instinct and incorporates vibrant colour in jarring contrast to the heinous acts depicted onscreen.
“I've been obsessed with the topic of revenge since I was a teenager. I remember getting bullied at school… I got my ass kicked a few times,” Goldilox shares on the video’s concept. “Those events motivated me to be very independent and strong. It was my revenge to be successful. It's not my only motivation but it's been a big part of it.”
We caught up with Goldilox to discuss the inspiration behind her new video, her obsession with films and what we can expect from her upcoming album.
BEST FIT: Was revenge an idea that you always imagined in relation to "Touch You Where It Hurts"?
GOLDILOX: "The song was written before the video concept came to fruition, but it's really a team of two. My producer G. Doubet and I do everything together; from the music, videos, photos, it’s only now we started to expand the team. So everything is pretty organic. The topic has come up multiple times in our records, but this was the first time I got to roll out some of my vengeful fantasies in a video."
The video’s narrative depicts a relationship of extreme highs and lows, ultimately culminating in your murdering your husband in an act of revenge. From yours and your character’s perspective, how much was real and how much was fantasy?
"There's a sprinkle of both. I am a Leo and I admit to being very fiery. I don't believe in taking shit from anyone. That doesn't mean I always lash out, I have learned how to play the game. Sometimes I enjoy letting people think they have gotten one over on me, but I always win."
You recently said that you wanted your character to “be one of those lead female characters in a 90s movie”. What makes those characters so appealing to you and so engaging to audiences? Can you give any examples of your favourites and why?
"Catherine Tramell from Basic Instinct. I mention her in the lyrics to "Touch You Where It Hurts". I just started watching movies a couple years ago and the only movies I really like are ones like Basic Instinct, Indecent Proposal, Double Jeopardy. They inspire me to continue to be a relentless badass."
Like all of your music videos it’s very cinematic. Were there any particular visuals that were inspiring you and your team when you were generating ideas?
"I am rarely into anything current visually, but I did find some inspiration in the HBO show Big Little Lies. Nicole Kidman's character was polarizing. I am very intrigued with the idea of a double life. Her character seemed the most put together on the show but you later find out that her private life was tragic."
You’re clearly a film fan and are creative in both your music and visuals as well as modelling. Have you ever thought about branching out into acting or even directing in the future?
"I am interested in all the above. There was a time I wasn't interested in anything but music, but after moving to Paris I have really seen first hand how all the arts are intertwined. I think directing could be a humbling experience because I love seeing people reach their potential. Music will always be my north star, everything I do inspires my music but I stay open to any opportunity that comes my way. Acting, designing - I have a list of things I want to try my hand at."
You’ve modelled for the likes of Diesel Black Gold, H&M, John Galliano and Luisaviaroma. What led you to begin modelling and how do you utilise it as a creative outlet?
"I've been doing photo shoots since I started singing for press and album covers, so modelling was one of those happy accidents that came with being an artist. It was never my goal but I do like to take photos; I like to express myself, and I only work with brands that share a similar vision."
You’re Canadian but currently based in Paris. What is the best thing about the city?
"Yes, very proud Canadian. I am from Cape Breton, my family is there and I miss it a lot. The best thing about Paris is the quality of life. People take their time here and taking time allows you to appreciate the little things more. Before I moved here I was in L.A. bulldozing my way through life. Now I pick up fresh flowers for my apartment once a week, I take a million photos of old buildings on my street. Beauty is everywhere but you gotta take the time to open your eyes in order to see it."
You’re all set to release an album later this summer. What can you tell us to whet our appetite?
"Ahh, the album. This entire album came together within five months. That is very fast in my world, but the songs and words rolled off my tongue so easily. My biggest hint is that this is my VERY BEST!"
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