#MusicExchange: Tatum addresses a toxic relationship in debut EP

After making her alternative pop prowess known with the release of three powerful singles, Tatum’s debut EP Bloodsport reinforces her lyrical narrative of love turned toxic.

The five-track EP, which was released last week and produced by Paul Gala (Bad Future Records), is a medley of love songs about the anguishing ambivalence of being in love with someone who is wholly destructive on every level and the inevitable pain that comes with love.

I caught up with her last week for a crisp and sharp chat.

The new decade means:

Alien invasions.

Fame is about:

Inspiring.

Retirement will happen:

Never.

I don't do:

Mornings.

What does music mean to you?

It’s my whole life!

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?

Singing live to an audience.

Any funny moments on stage?

I tripped over my dress once.

Which living person do you admire most and why?

Probably Billie Eilish because of her success at such a young age.

What is your most treasured possession?

Photo albums. I’m not too materialistic.

It’s your round, what are you drinking?

Because I’m Afrikaans I’ll probably have a brannewyn (sic) [brandy] or a beer.

Dream gig to do:

Coachella.

What makes you stand out?

My music and probably being unapologetically me.

If you were not a musician, what would you do?

I’d be a game ranger.

Pick five words to describe yourself?

Loyal, stubborn, ambitious, adventurous, impulsive.

Five favourite SA albums of all time: 

PHFAT - sex | love | heartbreak
James Deacon - The Calling
Brenda Fassie - Legends
Spoegwolf - Swaartekrag
Hunter As a Horse - The Two Magics

What is your favourite word?

Yoh! Hectic!

Favourite fashion garment:

T-shirts.

Give us some real proper slang and what it means:

“Lekker” can be used to describe good food, to greet your pal or to tell someone you’re having a good time.

Top of your bucket list:

Skydiving.

Your greatest achievement:

Being signed to Bad Future and making great music.

What is your fear?

Spiders and losing someone I love.

Happiness is:

A good old glass of pink gin after a long day.

On stage, I tend to:

Blackout of what’s in front of me.

The best life lesson you have been taught:

Don’t look down when someone looks up to you.

Where would you like to be right now?

In the studio.

Do you do charity work and, if you do, what do you do?

Thinking of getting involved with an orphanage.

Wishes and dreams:

My wish is for more happiness in the world. My dream is a world tour

Social media links

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

www.tatumsounds.com