After making their Unrecorded debut earlier this year, the Ottawa-based Wotts have become one of those duos whose releases we always look forward to. With their PETALS EP on the horizon, they add second single ‘WANNABE’ to their recently revealed ‘ALLO!’ to begin shaping up their forthcoming record even more. The pair are tracing back their synth-pop origins although with plenty of indie flair, dance textures and feel-good optimism that propels the delusion of unrequited love. Self-described as a “happy sad song”, this chapter continues the narrative of a one-sided romance with all its emotional turmoil and unrelenting hope for a happy ending, as unlikely as that might be. The dogmatic lyrics contrast with the starry-eyed soundtrack of vintage drum machines, analog synths and spiky guitars. ‘WANNABE’ really proves that Wotts is full of surprises and emotional depth.
At this point, we wanted to get to know Wotts a little better and below the Canadian duo share some insights into their music, advice for fellow music-makers, their dream collaboration, and more.
For those who have never heard of Wotts, who are you and what is your music about?
We’re an indie pop duo from Ottawa, Canada making music that’s inspired by artists like Tame Impala and Pond. Our songs touch on a bunch of different things, but we tend to focus a lot on love and heartbreak.
Let’s talk about the new single ‘WANNABE’, what does this song mean to you?
‘WANNABE’ is a track from our upcoming EP PETALS. The record tells a story about unrequited love and this song in particular is about being in limbo, basically wondering where you stand with someone. If you’re lucky you’ve never been in that spot, but if you have, it can be a painful stage where you’re constantly grasping for hope.
And what do you hope that listeners will take away from this track?
Fingers crossed people dig what we put together! And if any of them are going through some heartbreak, maybe it’ll help them realize they aren’t alone in how they feel.
Who or what is your biggest inspiration?
Seeing other motivated and passionate people inspires me. I try and surround myself with them since they’re usually very productive and happy in life.
Do you have any advice for fellow or future songwriters who want to branch out of their comfort zone?
Don’t waste another second holding back! It might be nerve-racking and it could get messy, but once you do it you feel so free. It’s normal to doubt yourself but trust your gut and tell your stories.
What are you grateful for right now at this moment?
My family, my loved ones and my health. Without these I wouldn’t be making music, so I’m incredibly grateful for all of them.
What is your most played song of 2023 so far?
Just dug into my Spotify Wrapped for the year and it said I played Brothertiger’s track ‘New Life’ over 2000 times! I don’t know if I should be proud or embarrassed.
Do you have an album that you can’t get enough of?
I listen to Brothertiger’s record Out of Touch way too much. I only discovered it last year and have probably spun it every day for the last few months. It’s just so beautiful and I’m always finding something new each time I hear it.
Who would be your dream collaboration?
Great question! I’d have to say Kevin Parker (Tame Impala). On top of being a super producer and creative mastermind, he seems like the chillest dude. One of my friend’s in Australia said that he throws parties where he spins Air, which is one of my favourite bands of all time. Based on that alone, I’d say we’re buddy soulmates and we’d make a great track together.
And lastly, what can fans expect from Wotts this year?
‘WANNABE’ is the our last drop of the year but we’ve got lots planned for 2024. So if you dig what we do, keep your ears peeled for more!
You can also find ‘WANNABE’ in our Outsiders Club playlist.
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