Tame Impala’s “Dracula” Makes Billboard History with New Sound

Tame Impala has made a significant mark on the Billboard charts with its new single “Dracula,” which debuted at No. 55 on the October 11, 2023, list. This marks the first time the Australian psych-rock band has penetrated the all-genre Billboard Hot 100. The single has since risen to a peak position of No. 33. This breakthrough is particularly noteworthy as it has opened the floodgates for additional tracks from their latest album, Deadbeat, released on October 17, 2023, through Columbia Records, with both “My Old Ways” and “Loser” now joining “Dracula” on the Hot 100.

The mainstream appeal of Tame Impala has seen a considerable uptick, and while various factors could be attributed to this surge, much attention has focused on frontman Kevin Parker. His extensive collaboration with pop star Dua Lipa on her album Radical Optimism likely broadened his audience. Additionally, Parker’s distinctive vocal style and high-caliber production have gained traction across multiple platforms, including the increasingly influential TikTok.

The creation of “Dracula” was a lengthy endeavor, as revealed by co-writer Sarah Aarons. The Melbourne native described the process as a meticulous one, involving extensive revisions and late-night brainstorming sessions. “There was just something about it that bothered him,” Aarons said about Parker’s dedication to perfecting the song. They were refining lyrics just two hours before the final mixes were due, illustrating the commitment they both shared to achieving the best result.

Collaboration and Creative Process

Aarons has also contributed to other tracks on Deadbeat, specifically “Oblivion” and “Afterthought.” She stands out as the only external writer or producer credited on the album. Their collaborative efforts have not only produced music but also fostered a strong friendship, with Parker even DJing Aarons’ wedding earlier this year.

Reflecting on their initial connection, Aarons noted their first conversation took place via FaceTime while Parker was in Australia and she was in Los Angeles. “We just talked s–t,” she recalled, highlighting the organic nature of their relationship. Their bond grew deeper over time, particularly when they would joke about Parker’s work schedule. Aarons described how Parker’s commitment to his craft allows for an authentic creative relationship, stating, “He really does take his time, and he’s really intentional about what it all sounds like.”

The songwriting journey for “Dracula” involved numerous iterations, with various ideas and melodies being explored before arriving at the final version. Aarons recounted how a line from a previous song had been woven into the new track, saying, “He mashed that into that one line… and I was like, ‘Oh damn, that’s kind of sick.’”

Aarons emphasized the ease of working with someone like Parker, who is deeply involved in the production process. “Everything is him; it sounds so much like him,” she explained. This unity in vision ensures that every lyric and melody contributes to the overall essence of Tame Impala, making collaboration both challenging and rewarding.

Finalizing the Lyrics Under Pressure

As the deadline for the mixes approached, the pressure to finalize the lyrics intensified. Aarons noted that this crunch-time environment often leads to clarity. “When you know you have a deadline, your brain just goes, ‘This is the right thing,’” she said. The final tweaks to “Dracula” came just minutes before the deadline, demonstrating the duo’s ability to harness creativity in high-pressure situations.

Aarons also shared her experience co-writing multiple tracks for the same project. She believes it facilitates a more cohesive sound and theme, stating, “I totally feel that way.” Collaborating closely over several songs allowed for a deeper understanding of the artistic direction, making the writing process more enjoyable and productive.

Being the only credited songwriter on Deadbeat is a point of pride for Aarons. She expressed gratitude for Parker’s trust in her abilities. “I’m super flattered. It all happened so naturally in such a friendly way,” she remarked. This organic collaboration exemplifies how genuine relationships in the music industry can yield exceptional results.

As Tame Impala continues to rise in popularity, the success of “Dracula” signals a new chapter for the band, blending their distinctive sound with a broader appeal. The collaboration between Parker and Aarons showcases the power of creative partnerships in the ever-evolving music landscape.