I had a chat with singer-songwriter I’MMORTAL about her new single, "UNCANNY VALLEY," which was released on February 14, 2025.
How did you come up with the title, "Uncanny Valley"?
I’MMORTAL: I actually learned about the AI term "Uncanny Valley" first, and instantly decided to make a song with that as a title.
What was the songwriting process like?
I’MMORTAL: The songwriting process was so much fun! It’s not a very personal song and was more of a fun experiment, so writing was easy and smooth.
How long was the process in creating the song from start to finish?
I’MMORTAL: The whole process took about a year. I wrote the song in about a month, and it was kind of just sitting in my hard drive for a few months. I always hit a wall at the bridge, so it was just a bridge-less song. Then, I got the inspiration to finish it a few months later.
Do you have a favorite moment from making the song?
I’MMORTAL: My favorite moment was recording the vocal layers for the second pre-chorus. Those weird robot layers were unplanned and happened in the moment. I love spontaneous ideas that work out like this!
Did you face any challenges while creating the song?
I’MMORTAL: Yes, I always have issues when I hit the bridge of a song. I like songs that evolve and change, so it’s important to me that something new happens. Especially with this song, I wanted it to shape-shift a little at the bridge. I have so many versions of "Uncanny Valley" with different bridges for this track.
Can you describe the song using three words?
I’MMORTAL: Shapeshifting, glitchy, and eerie.
What was the process like for creating the cover art?
I’MMORTAL: Honestly, I had this whole set planned out for the cover art that I eventually used for press photos. However, the photo we ended up using was just a headshot with a black background. I had a little vote amongst the photo team, and some close friends, and the headshot came out on top. The styling was definitely out there, and the special effects makeup was really creepy and grotesque, but it’s so me and it emits the eerie "Uncanny Valley" feeling.
Are you currently working on any new music?
I’MMORTAL: Yes, I am working on so much music. It’s more in the trance/acid-pop realm. I work alone currently (I would love to work with other producers!!) so my songs always take ages to finish.