There’s always a little magic in a Tori Martin song. Whether it’s her sassy struttin’ in “Steppin’ in It” or a therapeutic road trip to get “Lost in the Country,” she always delivers something extra. Tori’s latest single, however, is a purposeful departure from her kicking-up-the-red-dirt-and-gravel-in-a-pickup-truck-on-the-way-to-a-bonfire vibe. In “Warm for December,” the fast-rising country queen treats you to a sultry jazz lounge performance where she sings about the heat between two lovers. It’s a different kind of Christmas song that takes a more adult approach by depicting the romantic side of the holidays.
The accompanying video is captivating. It features Tori in an elegant black dress, performing in a studio strung with lights and decorated for the season. The loving camera work transports the viewer deep into Tori’s world making it feel like you’re part of a private concert.
Although she is currently wrapping up a tour with Drew Baldridge, the accomplished artist graciously made time to answer a few questions about her new single.
What is Christmas like with your family?
My family is big and blended, so we all get together on different days leading up to the big day! Christmas is so much fun, but can be chaotic with bigger families. My husband and I have made a tradition to open stockings or one gift the night of Christmas Eve and have a little moment to ourselves!
What was the songwriting process like for “Warm for December?”
We wrote “Warm for December” in August of this year, and my co-writer Bill DiLuigi brought the idea to the table (to me and co-writer Kirsti Manna). I wanted the song to have a throwback, jazzy, classic country vibe. The melody was collaborative with my co-writers and I definitely threw around some lyric ideas!
What was the inspiration behind “Warm for December?”
I split my time between Nashville and Texas. More often than not, it’s actually warm for Christmas in Fort Worth! The idea came from it being warm temperature wise, but we turned it into having a special someone to keep you warm for the holidays.
This song feels like you sang it straight from your heart. It really pulls the listener close and creates an intimate moment. What were you thinking while you sang?
”Warm For December” is a departure from how I typically sing. I wanted to be laid back in my approach, and was thinking of singing tenderly to a significant other and finding that feeling of when you’re falling in love! I’m so happy to hear that was received in the delivery.
Your fashion is always iconic. What was the inspiration for the elegant look in this video?
This song lends itself to a classic sound, and I wanted to lean into that! My inspiration was a singer in a smoky jazz lounge with Hollywood style makeup and hair.
Is there anything you’d like to say to your fans?
It’s been a great 2024, and my song “Lost in the Country” reached #1 on the Texas Regional Radio Report (My very first #1 record). I’m grateful for all of the support and opportunities I have received this year. Looking ahead, I’m so excited for all of the new music to be released in 2025! Buckle up y’all, it’s about to get real good!
The best way to support Tori is to join the mailing list on her website and follow her socials.
Tori Martin links:
Website • Facebook • Instagram • TikTok • X • YouTube
Tori is currently wrapping up her tour with Drew Baldridge. Her two remaining dates are:
Thursday, Dec. 5 at Fine Line in Minneapolis, MN
Friday, Dec. 6 at Wooly’s in Des Moines, IA
“Warm for December” was written by Tori Martin, Bill DiLuigi, and Kirsti Manna. It was produced by Bill Warner (LuckySky Music) and recorded at WarnerWorks studio. The musicians on the track include Russ Pahl on steel guitar, Dane Bryant on bass and keys, Bill Warner on guitars, and Brian Czach on drums. The video is a Retro Current Marketing production that was directed by Skyler Wilson and filmed in Fort Worth, Texas.
Cover photo: Still from “WFD shoot”Warm for December” by Skyler Wilson
Watch Tori’s “Lost in the Country” here.
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