Winston-Salem based indie-pop band, Victoria Victoria (made up of drummer Tim Roberts, pianist Noah Elliott, bassist T.J. Bagley, saxophonist Dan Brooks, and lead vocalist Tori Elliott) continues to prove why they’re the new kids on the block to watch. On their new single, “Body Body”, the group showcases their range as they veer off the path laid by their previous release, “What To Do”.
Production-wise when compared to their past work, the track is a stripped-down showing of the frontwoman, the delicate strokes of a piano, and her powerful pen. Engineered by Ethan Gingerich, “Body Body” tackles body dysmorphia and the toll it takes on self-confidence heard in lyrics, “no one prayed I’d be pretty. Is that required of a girl?”.
Recording acts like Sam Smith and Lizzo as well as actress Jamella Jamil’s body positivity activism work has helped shine a light on these raw feelings expressed by Tori. It’s clear Tori Elliot is a songwriter’s songwriter and the Regina Spektor influence is evident.
When asked about the story behind the track Eliott shared, “I wrote Body Body in 2016, at a time when the hatred I felt for my body had seeped into every area of my life. I could no longer enjoy food- I was constantly counting calories. The intense fear of weight gain coupled with the unattainable goal of weight loss entangled my every thought and action. I was unable to focus on my job, relationships, or music.”
Later adding, “I had struggled with body image issues since I was in grade school, and the torment of my own body shaming had reached its peak. One evening, I confided in my dearest friend out of desperation. She suggested I write an apology letter to the parts of my body I was ashamed of most,” continuing, “I began to see my stomach, my thighs, my arms, my calves as different versions of myself, all asking me the same question – ‘we are trying so hard for you, why is that not enough?”
Stream the full track below and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comment section.
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