John Roberts is a cast member of the EMMY Award-winning “Bob’s Burgers” as matriarch Linda Belcher which landed him first EMMY nod in the category of “Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance”. In 2017, Blondie tapped him to drop some lyrical fire on “Love Level” from their critically acclaimed chart-topper Pollinator. "Looking," a wild anthem produced by Big Black Delta, followed in 2019, marked his solo debut with remixes by Tensnake and Gerd Janson. The song—which landed at #19 on UK club charts--along with “Dirty Little Secrets” In 2021 Roberts released a full album of club bangers with legendary DJ Junior Sanchez featuring Beth Ditto and Debbie Harry as well as remixes by Harry Romero and Felix da Housecat.
John’s first release of 2023 is a return to pop with his single “Danger” a moody mid-tempo 80’s esq bop produced by Junior Sanchez that offers an exciting musical landscape filled with pulsating sounds and throbbing rhythm as well as Roberts vibrant and signature vocal style that brings the music to life.
This week we talk to John about his career, the inspiration behind “Danger” – drawing from his personal experiences and the challenging social climate, and his insights into finding balance amongst creative pursuits.
LEG: Congratulations on the release of your new single “Danger”! What inspired the theme and concept behind the 'Danger'? Can you tell us a bit about the story you aimed to tell through the release?
Thank you! I wrote the song after Junior Sanchez sent me the track. Lyrically I was in a vulnerable place and needing to set up boundaries in my personal life. What makes it relevant is the fact that LGBTQ people are under attack right now as well as the amount of mass shootings we have to endure every week.
LEG: "The 'Danger' music video is a comedic masterpiece. What was it like collaborating with that all-star cast? How did Knight Rider inspire and influence the video's aesthetic?"
We had so much fun making it. Having an all-star cast was humbling and great. Everyone was perfect. Knight Rider was always one of my favorite shows growing up and it’s so campy. Always loved that David Hasselhoff poster at Spencer Gifts so had to recreate that too ha.
LEG: You are a cast member of the EMMY Award-winning Bob’s Burgers. Where did you get your inspiration behind the iconic voice of Linda Belcher?
I am! My ma! She is from Brooklyn. Been imitating her since 4th grade.
LEG: Your character, Linda Belcher, is known for her enthusiasm and musical moments. Does your portrayal of Linda have any impact on your personal sound and style?
Well I have a lot of enthusiasm and love music so it’s a natural fit and it all feeds into itself. I am always singing and warming up my voice. The universe found the perfect job for me.
LEG: In 2017, you were featured on Blondie’s “Love Level” a track from their critically acclaimed chart-topping album, Pollinator. What was it like collaborating with Blondie?
It was incredible. Debbie has always been supportive of my music and that just means so much to me. We recorded at Sunset Sound in LA and I will cherish that memory forever. The album is a masterpiece and I am gagged I was even on it.
LEG: Your solo debut single, “Looking,” hit #19 on the UK charts with multiple remixes to follow. How did your remixes with Tensnake, Junior Sanchez, and Gerd Janson come to be? What was the process like?
Looking is still a favorite and all those artists where kind to work with me. Big Black Delta who produced it is a real talent.
LEG: You recently released a full album of club bangers with legendary DJ Junior Sanchez featuring Beth Ditto and Debbie Harry as well as remixes by Harry Romero and Felix da Housecat. Do you have a favorite track on the album and why?
I think Lights Out and Nobody are my two favorite tracks from the album although Divide People and Freaks are good too. Making a full album was ambitious but I definitely captured something and it allowed me to grow as an artist.
LEG: Your vibrant, signature vocal style brings all of your music to life. Do you have any artists that you look up to or draw inspiration from?
All my favorite artists died in the same year. Can you guess who? Bowie, Prince, George Michael. 2016 was rough. As a Gen X’r I was exposed to a lot of great music though. From Depeche Mode to Madonna and 80’s R&B. Also so much house music and EDM.
LEG: As a multi-talented artist, how do you find balance between your acting career, music endeavors, and other creative pursuits? How do each of your passions fuel the others throughout your life?
I am blessed to have such a great job like Bob’s Burgers which allows me to be involved in such a great tv show but also fuels my independent music. Having the ability to create and not get someones permission is inspiring to me. Connecting directly to my audience has always been my jam and I probably would not be anywhere if I waited for some corporate shit-heads approval.
LEG: What advice would you offer to passionate artists who are embarking on their journey in the industry?
Do something every day for your art. Keep it close to your soul and surround yourself with greatness. Block out the negative people. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Rejection and failure lead to success.
LEG: What can your fans anticipate from you in 2023 and beyond?
More music! More Bob’s Burgers and a film I made with John Early.