We recently had the chance to catch up with Heidi Shepherd, powerhouse vocalist of the Butcher Babies, to talk about everything from perseverance and toxic social media to the evolution of the music industry and their latest wild new single, Cage. Here’s what she had to say.
On Advice for Aspiring Female Artists
When asked about words of wisdom for young female artists, Heidi didn’t hesitate:
“Perseverance. Just keep at it. People will always tell you it’s a one-in-a-million shot—but you can be that one. It just takes hard work and dedication.”
On Social Media: Blessing or Curse?
Social media has its ups and downs, and Heidi feels the tension deeply:
“All of it can be toxic. I miss the ambiguity that used to surround rock stars. Now everyone knows what I have for breakfast. But it can also be really helpful—I use it for recipes and DIY home decor!”
She admits she's just dipping her toes into TikTok, saying, “I’m 38, and navigating it is a little weird for me.”
On the Changing Music Industry
Heidi reflected on how much the industry has evolved:
“One thing I really miss is the value of tangible music—vinyl, CDs, even cassettes. I miss the artwork, the soul artists put into that. But what I don’t miss? The tiny window women used to have to crawl through to get into this business. Now, that window is wide open—and women are thriving.”
On Their Journey Since “Jesus Needs More Babies for His War Machine”
Looking back on their breakout track from 2011, Heidi laughs:
“I don’t think we ever had a ‘plan.’ We were just best friends trying to have fun and play music. It's been a roller coaster—ups, downs, and a lot of short-term goals that turned into long-term success.”
First Big Tour? Marilyn Manson
Reminiscing about their first major tour, she shares:
“It was Marilyn Manson, and funny enough, I’m wearing that tour shirt right now! He treated us with so much respect. We even watched the Super Bowl together in a small Canadian town. It really set the pace for us.”
The New Single "Cage" and That Wild Music Video
Their latest single, Cage, is climbing the charts—and the video? Total chaos.
“We had just wrapped a 12-hour shoot for another song in a New Jersey strip club, moved everyone to the tour bus, and told them to go wild. I didn’t even know half of what happened until I saw the footage! But our fans showed up and made it magic.”
Going Independent
Since 2018, Butcher Babies have been flying solo without label support.
“Being independent has been fun—and really successful. Labels are great for new bands, but if you’ve got a good team and a solid vision, you can totally do it yourself.”
On YouTube Reactions and Online Trolls
Does Heidi watch reaction videos or read comments?
“Nope! I don’t read comments. I get too nervous. I like the song, other people like the song—that’s what matters. It’s better for my mental health.”
And no, they aren’t trying to troll anyone with their song titles:
“Cage was originally just a working title—'Beaver Cage,' actually—named after a Vietnam War battle. It stuck because it was just as silly as the song!”
What to Expect from the New Album
According to Heidi, Cage is a good taste of what's to come:
“There’s a mix of really fun songs and really dark ones. It’s an emotional ride. And yes—there are ballads. In fact, I just got the final mix of one today, and it features an amazing guest!”
Welcoming Bassist Ricky Bonanza
The newest member, Ricky Bonanza, came highly recommended:
“He posted a video of himself playing ‘Monsters Ball,’ and we were blown away. Then we met him—and it was like we’d been best friends forever. He’s amazing on stage and a creative force in the studio.”
What’s Different This Time Around?
The biggest change since their last full album?
“There’s no pressure. We made the music we wanted to make, without anyone telling us what buttons to push. That freedom means everything.”
Working With Matt Good
Heidi had nothing but praise for producer Matt Good:
“He’s a genius. It’s intimidating, but in the best way. He pulls emotions out of you that you didn’t know were there.”
On Vocal Chemistry with Carla Harvey
The vocal dynamic between Heidi and co-vocalist Carla Harvey is stronger than ever:
“We’re each other’s biggest cheerleaders. We push each other and know each other’s voices so well. This album features both highs and lows from us—I’m doing more lows than ever!”
What’s Next?
With new European dates on the calendar and a U.S. tour announcement just around the corner, 2025 is shaping up to be a huge year for Butcher Babies.
“It’s a support tour, and we’ve got a busy year ahead. I just want to thank everyone for 15 years of love and support—I can’t wait to see what the next 15 brings.”
Catch Butcher Babies on tour this year and stream their latest single Cage on all platforms now.
Stay heavy. Support the underground. Long live metal.
Want more? Follow Butcher Babies on their Website, Spotify, Facebook and catch them when they come to your town.
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