Electric violinist Ginny Luke recently released her single/music video, “Devil at My Heels,” the lead track from her upcoming album.
Ginny’s commanding vocals and dynamic electric violin solo amplify her declaration of strength and triumph over adversity. The electric violin becomes a symbol of rebellion, shattering stereotypes and challenging conventional norms associated with it. Ginny’s music and self-realization of power come to life through visionary storytelling and powerful symbolism in her music video.
Hailing from a quaint town in Iowa, Ginny Luke’s musical journey began at the tender age of 3 when she first picked up the violin. Guided by her parents’ unwavering support and passion for music, Ginny’s childhood was steeped in music. Taking a bold leap at just 15, she ventured to Los Angeles. Her tireless work ethic and commitment to her craft propelled her toward boundless opportunities, like touring with Meat Loaf at age 20 and recording with legends like Britney Spears and The Foo Fighters.
The “Devil At My Heels” video depicts Ginny and a male counterpart navigating a passionate yet tumultuous relationship. Initially, Ginny exudes happiness and freedom. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that the male lead harbors ulterior motives, serving as a detrimental force in Ginny’s life. The red-soaked video symbolizes the male lead’s sinister intentions.
In the end, Ginny confronts the man amid a flickering fire, symbolizing her resilience and inner strength. In a defiant act, she destroys his guitar, reclaiming her agency and asserting her independence.
Tattoo.com caught up with Ginny Luke to talk about how “Devil at My Heels” came together, her violin, and her tone.
How would you describe your own music?
Electric violin-driven rock, power vocals.
Tell us more about “Devil at My Heels.” What was your experience of making it?
Making ‘Devil at My Heels’ was mostly fun and fascinating, as always, with director Harrison Sanborn. His cinematography is always so captivating and dimensional in meaning, and I always feel heard and empowered when I do creative projects with him. I had a blast shooting the different parts of the video – the toxic lust relationship car and sunset shots, smashing the guitar in the fire at the beach, the band/singing shots, and the violin/drug deal narrative – it was all so interesting and fulfilling to put together. I also had a blast working with Liz Lorenzo and Sal Lorenzo on hair, makeup, and creativity.
Can you share the inspiration behind the track and the creative process involved in bringing it to life?
‘Devil at My Heels’ is a classic, guitar riff-laden, in-your-face, rock song that features rock goddess Orianthi on guitar and myself on electric violin and vocals. I wrote it with Lucas Sader, Zach Fisher, and Scout Durwood, and Dave Darling and Zackary Darling produced.
The creative process started with an ‘outlaw’ feel, musically, with lyrics hinting at Bonnie and Clyde, thick as thieves’ midnight temptation, and then progressed into the main guitar riff Lucas Sader wrote and the ‘runnin’ in murky waters’ concept of the pre-chorus. Lucas and I wrote a demo at our home studio, then presented it to my label KZZ Music/Blue Elan, and then we got in the studio and recorded it with a full band. Orianthi graciously agreed to play lead and a ripping solo on it, and then I recorded an electric violin solo and added additional strings with Onree Gill.
Harrison Sanborn and I then took the song concept and feel and started brainstorming imagery and a narrative that told the story of the song.
With “Devil at My Heels” what was your main focus? What did you really want to try and achieve with this track?
My main focus with ‘Devil at My Heels’ was writing a banging rock song with screaming guitar/violin riffs and an undeniable vocal that made people want to rock out. I wanted to achieve POWER in its delivery and its message. Mission accomplished, I think.
What kind of violin, pedals, and amps are you using?
On this current tour (AJR ‘Maybe Man’ tour), I’m using a Yamaha SV-250 electric violin and a Glasser AEX carbon fiber violin with Larsen strings, Line6 Helix Stomp for effects, and a Peavey Nashville 110 80-watt amp.
What’s your definition of tone and has your tone changed over time?
Definition of tone… Tone is your SOUND and your IDENTITY. YES, my tone has changed over time! Hah! I started when I was 3 years old, I found strong tone on the acoustic violin around the age of 9, really excelled in professional tone around ages 12-14 playing Mendelssohn, Barber, and dipping into pop, rock, and jazz, then started experimenting with pedals around age 16 with my guitar friends (and coincidentally enough, Harrison the director of this video. We used to be in a band together). I have a powerful slightly gritty but still beautiful tone that I love on electric violin now, but I’m always evolving.
Now, I do want to ask as well, what’s been the highlight of your career so far? Maybe touring or who you’ve played with, something that’s really stood out.
The highlight of my career has been making this album and sharing the stage with Meat Loaf. I will never forget the lessons he taught me. ‘YOU OWN THIS STAGE, DON’T LET ANYONE TAKE IT FROM YOU.’ He was a good teacher. And the parties were cool.
Do you prefer the intimacy of a smaller venue or the spectacle of a larger venue? What’s your preference for that?
I think it’s important for an artist to be able to connect to their audience in both contexts, but I personally prefer arenas and larger venues – so I can be larger than life! One thing I love to create and be onstage is fantasy – you’re living out people’s dreams, desires, and secrets through music.
Which do you enjoy the most: writing, recording, practicing, or playing live?
Playing live! It’s the best. They’re all necessary though.
Based on your own experiences and lessons learned, what guiding principles or words of wisdom would you share with aspiring artists looking to carve out their own path in music?
Dream big, don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do something, and never give up. Those qualities define who you are. If you believe in yourself, reach out and ask for help and guidance from those who are doing it professionally. Anyone with a big heart will be willing to give you some guiding words – and never take advice from someone whose life you wouldn’t want to be living.
What’s next for you?
I am leaving tomorrow for the second leg of the AJR ‘Maybe Man’ arena tour, and then my album will drop on Nov. 1st! I will be releasing new singles leading up to November, so if you dig my music, keep your ears open because there are a few more rock anthems on the way!
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