Hold onto your hats, because Ghost frontman Tobias Forge just dropped a bombshell that might make some metalheads scratch their heads: he believes Ghost’s live shows have more in common with Lady Gaga than many rock bands. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing—Forge isn’t just talking about theatrics; he’s diving deep into the challenges of performing in a mask and how it’s reshaped his approach to music.
In a recent interview with Global News, Forge opened up about his transition to the half-face mask he’s been sporting since adopting his ‘Papa V Perpetua’ persona for the Skeletá album cycle. He likened his previous experience with full-face masks to being asked to perform at his peak while wearing flip-flops—a metaphor that’s as vivid as it is relatable. ‘It’s like trying to run a marathon in sandals,’ he explained, emphasizing how the masks restricted his ability to sing and perform at his best. Singing, he pointed out, is a full-body endeavor, requiring facial expressions and physical freedom that a full mask simply couldn’t allow. And this is the part most people miss—the mask wasn’t just a costume; it was a physical and mental barrier.
Forge’s struggles with claustrophobia, including a panic attack onstage in 2015, are well-documented. Interestingly, he’s now looking to scuba diving as a way to confront these fears head-on. ‘In my alternate life, I’m a wreck diver,’ he quipped, blending his love for the ocean with his quest for personal growth. But let’s circle back to the Lady Gaga comparison—what does it really mean?
Forge clarified that while Ghost isn’t mimicking Gaga’s style, their approach to production and stage evolution shares similarities with pop shows. ‘We’re not doing the same thing, but conceptually, we’re closer to her than many rock bands,’ he noted. This isn’t just a bold statement—it’s a thought-provoking observation about the blurred lines between genres and the universal language of performance.
The Skeletour, Ghost’s ongoing world tour, is a testament to this evolution. Despite a rocky start with canceled shows due to a winter storm, the tour is back on track, kicking off at Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut. But here’s the kicker: is Forge’s comparison a bridge between metal and pop, or a controversial claim that challenges the purity of rock? We want to hear from you—do you think Ghost’s theatrical approach aligns more with pop icons like Lady Gaga, or is it a unique evolution of metal? Sound off in the comments!
For those eager to dive deeper, Forge also discussed Skeletá, the band’s long-term goals, and the possibility of a new EP in a recent YouTube interview. And if you’re curious about the man behind the mask, Matt, Louder’s resident Gojira enthusiast, has been covering the most forward-thinking artists in heavy music since 2017. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him skydiving, scuba diving, or coasteering—talk about living life on the edge!
So, what’s your take? Is Ghost’s fusion of metal and pop production a genius move, or a step too far? Let the debate begin!
