For many artists, songwriting is a phase. For Reetoxa, it has been a lifelong calling. After spending more than three decades quietly crafting songs, refining ideas, and building an extensive catalogue of music behind the scenes, the Melbourne-based artist is finally stepping forward to share his work with the world in a meaningful way.
With influences rooted in honesty, observation, and fearless storytelling, Reetoxa’s music reflects both personal experience and wider social reflection. His latest release, ‘War Killer’, marks a bold creative moment, blending political awareness with the spirit of unity and classic punk energy. The track also reveals a songwriter unafraid to challenge himself creatively, even after years of working outside the spotlight.
In this interview, Reetoxa opens up about his remarkable songwriting journey, the inspiration behind ‘War Killer’, working alongside producer Simon Moro, and why now felt like the perfect time to finally unleash years of hidden material. He also reflects on Melbourne’s vibrant music culture, the unforgettable Trump and Kim Jong-un peace meeting that inspired his latest single, and the message of togetherness he hopes listeners carry with them today.
For readers discovering your music for the first time, can you introduce yourself and tell us about your journey as an artist, including what has shaped you over the past 30 years as a songwriter?
I try to write as I see it. No topic is off limits.
What do you believe defines you most as an artist at this stage in your life, both musically and personally?
I think I have established myself as a good Australian writer. Not many people could make a decent double album.
Looking back at your long songwriting journey, what has kept you creatively inspired and consistent, even before any official release or public recognition?
The melodies keep popping back into my head. I just kept believing in myself no matter what.
After writing such an extensive catalogue of music over the years, what made now feel like the right time to officially release your work to the world?
Not having anything to show anyone was getting so frustrating. It eventually just burst out of me.
Meeting producer Simon Moro seems to have been a defining moment in your career. How did that partnership come together, and how has it influenced your creative direction?
We met at a “how to record in Pro Tools” course. I realised pretty quickly I would not figure out how to use the software to a high standard. I liked the work he showed us of other artists similar to me.
As a Melbourne-based artist, how has the city’s music culture and atmosphere shaped your sound and artistic identity?
Melbourne is very inspiring. All sorts of artists are accepted. It’s so welcoming.
‘War Killer’ marks your first venture into political songwriting. What inspired you to step into that space with this particular track?
Being in the military, I knew how worried the region was about North Korea. To see it end with a phone call was fascinating.
The song was inspired by witnessing the peace meeting between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un during Melbourne’s lockdown. What was it about that moment that impacted you so deeply?
Just seeing them together was jaw dropping. I’ll never forget it.
You mentioned that ‘War Killer’ almost did not make the album despite being selected from around 1,800 songs. What ultimately convinced you that this was the one that needed to be released?
I think it got in the flow of the album and the band’s performance was amazing.
‘War Killer’ carries echoes of classic punk unity anthems like Sham 69’s ‘If The Kids Are United’. What message of unity or reflection do you hope listeners take away from ‘War Killer’ in today’s political climate?
That we work better together. Such great songs. Peace can be created together.
