New Zealand based dark pop artist Michèle Ducray creates spellbinding songs about fantasy intertwined with the mystical. Inspired by mysterious and sinister themes such as horror and the colorful characteristics of circus life, Ducray’s songs are laced with vivid imagery and suspenseful storylines.
Ducray’s musical influences include Pavarotti and Ladysmith Black Mambazo, reminiscent of her early childhood. Her sound is “haunted pop,” characterized by a mix of intoxicating vocals, deep drum & bass, and lucid pop melodies for a melancholic yet energetically upbeat immersion of seductive tones. When she creates music, Ducray visualizes fantastical scenarios, utilising metaphorical subconscious imagery. A self-confessed “fan of the peculiar”, this, perhaps, is best demonstrated through her enigmatic “Peter Pan” style on stage.
What inspired this last release?
My latest release, Manifesto was inspired by my fascination with serial killers and true crime. I’ve always wanted to delve into the mind of a stalker/killer and what better way than through music! I feel like everyone has dark impulses and this song I wrote, was my way of trying to understand why some people act on them.
What is something you can’t live without?
I honestly can’t live without my laptop! It has all my musical works & writings & also Neon/Netflix, so I’d say it would be super hard for me to function without it, haha!
Any funny anecdotes from the time you were recording or writing this?
I actually almost scrapped the entire song, as I didn’t know if people would be interested in something that was more story-like than a typical, relatable, tragic love song. It’s kinda interesting, the lyrics describe a POV verse from an intended “victim” and then switches up to the killer’s view in the chorus.
The music video had me walking around Auckland city with my hands bound and red paint pouring out from me. We got a few looks for sure!
What’s your favorite thing to do besides music?
I love going to the gym and doing yoga, as well as just chilling in my room binge-watching shows/horror movies and eating, lol! All of these things really put me at ease and help release the stresses of day-to-day life!
What’s a record or artist that shaped your creativity?
Easy answer! Definitely, Prince. I love how creative he was in his music and his stage presence as well as lyricism. He had his own sound and I truly admired him for that. A super interesting person too!
Who is an artist or band you look up to today?
I’m really into Doja Cat at the moment, I find her super unique and talented. She raps and sings and figures out all her own harmonies. She’s definitely a woman that can do it all!
What excites you the most about what you do?
Honestly, just having people relate, listen and enjoy what I’m doing. I live for pleasing people through my music and I just hope I can achieve that with this song!
