Ghost’s Tobias: Misleading Claims That “Rock Is Dead”

Ghost’s Message on Rock Music

Ghost’s Tobias Forge stated in NME that the band is “living proof” that the notion of “rock is dead” is simply not true.

• READ MORE: Tobias discussed new material and the future of Ghost: “If fans need knowledge to please the group, this element will end pretty soon”

Anticipation for the Upcoming Album

The metal frontman performed ahead of the much-anticipated sixth studio album of the Skeletá group, set to be released on April 25. He was previously seen with the anemic lead single “Satanized,” showcasing new elements of Perpeuu Ferce Parpa Forge.

In an interview, he was asked about his remaining goals, turning his focus to the tired cliché that heavy guitar music lacks innovation.

“Over the past decade, there’s been constant chatter in the music industry—particularly in rock—about ‘Rock Is Dead’ or ‘No new groups can become big,’” he remarked. “Ghost, along with several others, is living proof that this is not accurate.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbwuqhwpo_o

Future Aspirations and Influences

“I’m not saying you can be the next AC/DC, but we are living evidence that it’s still possible. Newer bands like Sleep Token are finding success, so obviously, you can still rise to greatness.”

On the subject of ambitions, he noted: “Rammstein were just an arena band for a long time. They were famous for their massive shows but only played arenas. Then they decided to go on a stadium tour, and suddenly they went from 15,000 fans each night to 55,000 for three nights in a row! From a performance perspective, I admire this ambition; it ultimately enhances the stage production.”

“My passion really turned into an obsessive fandom in the 80s when I saw The Rolling Stones. When I was eight, they released ‘Steel Wheels’ and went on tour in America… If you think Rammstein’s stage is impressive, ‘Steel Wheels’ was something else. The thrill of being part of that atmosphere is indescribable.”

Ghost is among the many bands scheduled to perform at the upcoming final show of Black Sabbath at Villa Park in Birmingham. “Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne have had a massive influence on me,” Forge shared. “Ozzy the frontman, and Ozzy as a solo artist, shaped my understanding of rock, especially growing up in the 80s. He held immense rock star status back then, and he has a special place in my heart.”

Ghost will embark on their own tour of the UK, Europe, and the United States later this year, kicking off with Manchester’s Ao Arena on April 15. For a complete list of dates and to check for any remaining tickets, visit here.