A Live Listen Email Interview with Ben Seltzer On His New Single, “Ophelia”

I’m not sure if this is a wonderfully original way to interview someone or if it’s a terrible hackjob, but it’s likely the latter.

In all honesty it’s nothing more than an interesting way to write about a new song when you remember you promised to do so while drunk.

So yes, I listened to Ben Seltzer’s new single, “Ophelia” for the first time, full-on whiskey drunk, and wrote out the questions in real-time for Ben to answer in the same fashion. Maybe next time I’ll do this while actually on the phone or sitting down with an artist. That could definitely be a great time, but I imagine it could be pretty awkward if the song/album is a total stinker.

Luckily, this song is a special one. Maybe give it a listen while reading… that’s a good idea. Do that.

AND LOOK OUT FOR BEN’S NEW MUSIC THAT’S DROPPING VERY SOON!!! Montreal 11.23

Follow him on the gram: @WhoIsBenSeltzer

Did you consider other names? Because Lumineers…

Yeah, I was considering calling it Cleopatra, but it didn't really fit the bounce of the song as well.

Would you name a song “Angie” or do you have no limits?

Never. No way, no how.

It’s actually a really good song.

Hey thanks man! I appreciate you taking the time to listen. 

I listened to it drunk and just kinda vibed to it rather than focused super intently on what sounded like some very spiritual lyrics. But ok, I’m listening now and I hope we have vastly different interpretations.

I think its a song about being a good, god-fearing man who would never ever entangle themselves with a temptress whos terrible for them but just feels so good, hbu? 

Second half is giving “No Role Modelz” vibes. 

Don't save haaaa she don't wanna be saved!

Does it also bother you when people say “it’s giving”? Because I hate myself just for saying that.

I mean, if they have a noun to follow which describes what exactly it is giving, then I'm a okay with it, but the phrase on its own is a thumbs down from me. 

Forgot to pay attention to the first half, going back.

Look man, we all go at our own pace, its okay to start again : ) 

Ben Seltzer being cool & patient

“The devils coming down.”

Wouldn’t the Devil technically be coming up?

In theory, unless we're in the absolute depths of hell, which is possible in this certain situation. 

“Let the River bend how it bends”

“Save it for Sunday

I’m a sinner, it’s irrelevant”

“Don’t dare lay in the light”

“Ophelia”

You can sure hold a note, brother.  Impressive.

Thank you man, I been working on it.

((( The lyric is don't LET in the light, but I'll give you an A for effort for sure! )))

So what I’m gathering is that you’re holding Ophelia back. Telling her not to lay in the light? You like vampire lookin girls? Personally, I like a permanent tan. Brown girls have my heart.

Vampire girls have been in the roladex for a while, for sure, but I wouldn't say I'm holding her back. At the end of the day, it was just about being bad for each other - we had something really gorgeous, but it burned so hot that I was worried we'd end up in ashes. Had to cut it loose before the fire was raging. 

“I ain’t your savior”

This would sound great on a vampire TV show or in a movie.

Thanks dudeeeeeee if you know any music supervisors let me know! 

Thanks for your time, Ben.

Oh of course, I love being punctual and having working cellular devices so very much. Thanks for listening, the rest of the record is coming soon! 

Bonus Question:  

“Debra” by Beck is a top 5 song all-time for me. Do you disagree? If so, what’s it like to still be a virgin? 

Rapid response on first listen: 

Saucy horn & organ intro … oh yeah this is killin

Her nametag said Jenny but I have a feeling she’s gonna be Debra in the end 

They sure do have everything at JC Penny 

OH her SISTER is Debra????
Generic ass names for that family. What are the parents named, John and Sarah? Have some creativity, Jesus lord. 

Hyundai to Glendale, this Beck isn't messing around. 

I have a feeling he isn't packing heat at all to be honest. 

All in, I cant bring myself to go top five, but ill give you top five Beck ! 

He’s gonna have to clean up a little after that one 

Thanks for your time man, appreciate you!!