Fans of the animated series Bob’s Burgers may know John Roberts for voicing the delightfully and terminally optimistic matriarch of the Belcher family, Linda Belcher. Outside of the Emmy-winning series, Roberts has been stretching his musical skills with ’80s Depeche Mode pop-synth appeal.
Following “Danger”, which was released earlier this year, Roberts takes us back into the realm of moody mid-tempo 80’s throwback energy with his new single “Nothin 4 Something”
Described as a breakup jam, “Nothin 4 Something” drops today and is accompanied by an equally moody black and white video directed by Cody Critcheloe, who has worked with the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and directed videos for Kylie Minogue, Robyn, Peaches, Santigold, and others.
How do you approach your music differently than your other artistic ventures?
Music is a much more personal form of expression for me so I try to dig deep and channel something great. It’s always thrilling to start with nothing and end up with a recording. Music is always the most universal language.
With your new single “Nothin 4 Something”, you continue your ’80s mid-tempo vibe from “Danger”. What is the inspiration behind the song and the video?
This is a dramatic break up song which everyone needs and feels at some point in their life. I love how moody and vintage it sounds. The video is timeless black and white and inspired by Flashdance, Bruce Springsteen and George Michael ’80s goodness.
What is it about this 80s Depeche Mode-ish vibe that appeals to you?
New Wave is just my favorite overall because it encompasses so much about music that I love. I enjoy a good beat with some dark drama and synths thrown in. Growing up on Shep Pettibone, Depeche Mode and freestyle music had an impact.
Linda Belcher is such a specific voice and character and your music shows a very different side of you. But what unexpected common ground with John Roberts as Linda Belcher and John Roberts as the musician have you found?
Well Linda was in the Ta Tas which is her all female band. Also we both love Madonna.
How would it have been like to see a queer actor, writer, and singer like yourself when you were younger?
When I was growing up queerness was very elusive and stereotypical so I am happy to be able to present something real and celebratory.