Secret Lover is here! Brighton-based independent pop artist Toddy Lightning has unveiled his first single of the year, a seductive queer anthem that captures the excitement and mystery of a forbidden romance. Read my interview with Toddy below to learn more about Toddy and his new music.
Who is Toddy Lightning? Can you share a bit about yourself and your music?
I’m a queer electropop artist from Brighton. My music is unapologetically bubblegum at its core, layered with glitchy production, heavily autotuned vocals, and distorted basslines. My goal is to make euphoric dance anthems from a gay male perspective that offer people an escape.
Who are your inspirations?
My biggest inspirations would be Charli XCX, SOPHIE, Nadia Oh and Uffie – basically the pioneers of hyperpop.
Also, Britney Spears’ 2011 album Femme Fatale has had a huge influence on my work. I’m obsessed with 2010’s “recession pop” which was all about partying and feeling sexy.
Is Secret Lover inspired by real life?
I’m sure my boyfriend will be relieved to know that it’s entirely fictional! The song is more about the fantasy of a secret romance. I like my pop music to be a little scandalous. That said, I’ve definitely had one or two flings in the past which could be considered “secret”.
Who would be your dream collab?
My dream collab would be Sky Ferreira.
I’m dying to hear her do something electropop again, I don’t know if she ever will but her song One changed the trajectory of my life.
Can you describe your creative process?
It really varies depending on the song. I keep a list of title and lyric ideas whenever they pop into my head. Most of the time I’ll make a really rough demo and send it to a producer to fully flesh out, then I’ll finish it. Other times I’ll get a polished beat first and write to that – Secret Lover was one of those instances.
Is there an album in the pipeline?
I have an EP coming out in March! It’s got 7 tracks so technically could be considered an album but I don’t want that responsibility yet! I’m also going to drop another EP towards the end of the year too.
What else do you get up to in Brighton?
When I’m not working or making music I love going on long walks. Brighton has such a vibrant and creative atmosphere which I find really inspiring. I’m also nearly always in a coffee shop so it’s lucky that Brighton has so many great ones!
Who would be your dream dinner party guests and what would the conversation be like?
My dream dinner party guests would be Sky Ferreira and Britney Spears.
I’d want all the tea on the dark side of the music industry.
Any live shows coming up/dream gig?
I’m yet to do my first live performance and I don’t have anything lined up right now, but it’s something I’m definitely excited to do in the future! As for my dream gig, I would love to perform at Eurovision! I feel like that would be so on brand as my music is so Eurovision coded.
Let us know your thoughts on X (formerly Twitter) @SceneLGBTQ and @DaleyPopScene and follow Toddy Lightning on his socials and stream Secret Lover HERE :).
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