Jack O’Rourke

We have the new single from Jack O’Rourke, with its references to Greek mythology, huge chorus and sheer queer attitude, playing on a loop in GCN Towers. It’s no wonder we had to sit down for a chinwag with him.

Hey, Jack! If you could describe your latest song, ‘Myth’ in one sentence, what would it be?

A mini rock opera that’s half exploring the ideal of the perfect lover and half objectifying classical male buns, whilst singing Freddie Mercury-inspired falsetto.

How do you think your sound has evolved with this new EP?

It’ll be hard to know until completion! The EP will be more synthy and a little lighter in theme. made a deal with myself to write more dancey, less introspective tunes. I’m sure the piano ballads will call me back, but for now it’s all hooks and ABBA inspirations.

How is being queer in the public eye for you? think I’m in two minds. I’m proud of and comfortable being gay. It certainly is reflected in my songs lyrically and musically. But I’m cautious, because I’m often tagged a ‘gay songwriter’, that might be pigeonholed.

You say in your press release that you’re “a difficult guy to ask out”. Why is that?

Who wrote that? No, it depends on the Jack they meet! I’m pretty introverted and a bit shy. often don’t even realise if someone is flirting with me.

Any advice for a guy chatting you up?

Be blunt! I’m not very intuitive. Don’t be shady and avoid the line: ‘I’m masc, looking for a normal guy’. We’re all masc and fem.

What are you interested in exploring with your work?

Myself and the world. might even go through an Erotica Madonna phase. I’d like to explore more musical traditions – African, Cuban, Latin – it sounds like a Scruff preference! But suppose to keep evolving while being true to my roots.

Who is your greatest musical influence, and why?

Kate Bush ‘cause she’s God.

What is your favourite song of all time?

‘Oh, Holy Night’. A weird choice for an agnostic, know, but that melody! And it reminds me of being a little boy. My secular fave would be Jeff Buckley’s version of ‘Hallelujah’. At the moment, I’m loving Sia’s new track.

Who would play you in the biopic of your life, and what would it be called?

Meryl Streep, Come Sit On My Piano.

What’s the best piece of life advice you ever received? Enjoy every sandwich, or wrap it up.

Jack O’Rourke’s ‘Myth’ is out now, jackorourkemusic.com