ONICKS – Toxic

By starrymag | June 6, 2023

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) I have coined a new genre called “Sinister-Pop.” My sound definitely has pop roots but in this case the pop music is up to no good. There’s a dark edge to my music with influences from trap, 80’s synth-wave, rap, electronic and pop.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) When it comes to my writing style, my biggest influence has been Lana Del Rey. The way that she uses the manipulation of words married perfectly with haunting melodies has always captivated me. I’m also inspired by the music of The Weeknd, The Eurythmics, Prince, Michael Jackson, Rihanna, Banks, Raye and Billie Eilish.

 

Q) How did you decide to cover Britney Spears’ iconic single “Toxic?”

 

A) One day while I was at the gym, my good friend and creative collaborator Brandon Rogers called me and asked if I could specifically create a VERY ONICKS cover of “Toxic” that lived in the 80’s, and I was completely sold! What a brilliant idea and I love a good challenge!

 

Q) In what ways did you rework the song to make it your own?

 

A) Most people wouldn’t know this, but “Toxic” is a very complex song musically. It changed keys several times throughout which makes it difficult to cover. Our challenge was to also make this an 80’s synth-wave jam so we had to start with a bare bones track and build upwards. I also wanted to make sure that I sold the song with an authentic 80’s accent and this took a solid week of research. I think we nailed it!

 

Q) What kind of response have you been receiving from your fans to your version?

 

A) My fans, who I call “Legends,” really lost their minds when I announced this release. Now that it’s out, they absolutely love it, which really excites me! I wasn’t quite expecting to do a cover like this, and I just feel so proud of myself and my team for pulling it off in such a major way!

 

Q) When it comes to your own songs, what is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) I would say the most common way that I write my songs begins with some sort of a track. This could just be a few chords and a basic drum kit or a full out/produced track but when I hear something I connect with, the world comes to a halt, and I disconnect so I can write. Luckily, everyone in my life knows when those moments are happening because I usually need to go on a walk in order to write. I’m not really sure why, but the process of walking long distances aimlessly fuels my writing and my creativity.

 

Q) Jakaval lent a hand on the production of “Toxic,” but how much of a say do you have in the production of your music?

 

A) I have been working with Jakaval for over twelve years now and so he knows better than anyone on Earth exactly what I’m looking for. When I write a song, I can already hear the final product in my head. I know what the effects sound like, the layering, the beat, everything and so I guide the mixing/mastering process with every song. As an artist, I think it’s really important to know your craft and to be in situations where you are the one guiding YOUR art.

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

 

A) My first EP is on the way!

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) I’m either a fan of really intimate stages where I can bring my drummer, violinist and really connect with everyone in the room or a massive stage where I can really show off my production skills and stage presence. I really loved playing at the Blackrose in LA on the more intimate side and I would have to say Palm Springs LGBTQ Pride was my favorite larger stage moment. That stage was 60ft wide and I was LIVING.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) Lana Del Rey

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

 

A) I really love French music and currently I am obsessed with La Zarra. She has this almost elegant gangster voice and persona that I vibe with completely. She’s also representing France on Eurovision and I’m rooting for her!

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) I think it’s really important for artists to genuinely connect with their fans. I have created a safe community for a lot of adults and kids who really need a sense of belonging. I personally represent so many minority communities and I take pride in knowing that my growth as an artist and my transparency on social media is really helping people.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) To my dearest Legends, your support has set me free. I am so grateful for your love and for your EFFORT. We are just getting started and I promise to continue to make you proud. After all, I am the most famous, well-known popstar and supervillain in the world I created in my head. I love you all. ❤️‍🔥