INTERVIEW: ReeToxA shares latest single

Cut from the cloth of alternative rock’s most vital moments, ReeToxA is the creative reawakening of Melbourne-based songwriter Jason McKee, a name that, while new to many listeners, has been shaping music in the shadows for decades. A student of the 90s, his background comes from the grunge era, first picking up the pen in 1995 with bands like Nirvana still echoing from garage speakers and underground venues across the world.

Fast forward nearly 30 years, and that long-burning passion finally erupted with the launch of his project ReeToxA. His debut single “Bobbie” announced him as an artist able to expose emotional weight through gritty, emotive and personal songwriting. It was the opening chapter to a full-length dive into his sonic world with Pines Salad, an album produced by respected Australian producer Simon Moro.

Supported by a lineup including Kit Riley on bass, James Ryan on guitar and Peter Marin on drums, the record channeled the energy and noise of Pixies-era alternative rock with the stripped swagger of The White Stripes, all while staying uniquely tethered to Jason’s own perspective. Now, ReeToxA returns with “Redneck Love”, a track that walks the line between tongue-in-cheek storytelling and reflective angst.

Inspired by none other than the high-profile romance between pop juggernaut Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce, the single offers a glimpse into Jason’s playful, envious side; wrapped in the sound of crunchy guitars and a steady, infectious groove. The unlikely subject matter first became musical inspiration when Jason, who found himself captivated by Swift’s presence at a Melbourne Cricket Ground concert (despite being ticketless and sitting outside), later saw her new relationship unfold across TikTok.

That rush of admiration, coupled with a surge of humorous jealousy, sparked the idea for a song that’s equal parts satire and sincerity. It’s classic alternative rock commentary, twisted into a modern moment that’s reflective but never self-serious, wry but never cynical. Kicked off by a grooving riff of guitar and bass anchored by the punch of drums, ReeToxA’s moody vocals enter to craft a subtly angsty rock scene that glides with building energy and catchy hooks.

Laying down an anthemic chorus, slick guitar layers float alongside ReeToxA’s commanding voice to deliver an energising listening experience that rolls with pattering drums and indignant lyricism. It’s a stellar display of ReeToxA’s engaging rock songwriting and performance talents, resulting in an epic jam that’s fun and sure to put a smile on your face. With a growing catalogue and a vision built on honesty and grit, ReeToxA is continuing to impress on what’s sure to be his breakout year.

We caught up with ReeToxA to find out more about his musical journey so far, his new single “Redneck Love” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with ReeToxA below.

Let’s start with the new track, what inspired “Redneck Love”?

After Taylor swift toured Oz we could get only one ticket for my 15 year old niece. My sister and I listened to the concert outside the mcg and I started to admire her. A few months later she announced she was dating a football star and I was shattered, so I wrote the song imagining I was a really jealous swifte. I love the end result it’s a fun song to sing.

Was there a specific moment or story that sparked the idea for this song?

Taylor and Travis were walking backstage at a Kansas chiefs game and I thought how contrived. Why not let people find out naturally? I was probably just jealous.

How would you describe the sound of the new single compared to your previous releases?

Redneck love is a flat out rocker that’s fun to sing and dance to. I was pumped up through the roof singing it in the studio! It’s the newest song on pines salad, some of the others are thirty years old!

What was the production process like for this single? Who did you work with?

Simon Moro and the band expanded my initial riff but we left the lyrics untouched. It just flew out in the studio!

Lyrically, what message or emotion were you hoping to capture in this track?

I guess I was trying to capture jealousy, weird celebrity crushes and the fact an artist never seemed to settle down Taylor!

Did any artists or songs influence the creative direction of “Redneck Love”?

I loved the song so much that I wanted to write an amazing opening riff. It’s simple but rocks hard I think. It does have a great middle 8 / bridge like all my favourite bands do.

What challenges, if any, did you face while bringing “Redneck Love” to life?

Vocally it was very aggressive and powerful so I put my whole heart into it. I’m usually laid back and emotional but this song gave me a drive I never knew I had.

The title hints at a story rooted in culture or identity, how do your roots shape your music?

I guess a footy star is not a redneck they are a jock, but jock is a term for underwear in Australia and saying jock love was nasty ! Being from a lower socio economic background and thinking I had a chance with the worlds biggest artist is far fetched I guess but I have always been a dreamer.

There’s a clear blend of styles in your music, how do you balance genre influences while keeping your sound your own?

When I write a song I often hear the music in my head which can be all sorts. I refuse to tie myself down to one genre I always give what the song needs. Somehow the producer Simon Moro kept the songs individual but they flow beautifully. The mastering engineer completely changed the order of the songs which had great results.

What’s your favourite part of performing live? Any memorable gigs or tour stories?

At my first ever gig I thought I haven’t missed a note this is great, but I realised I had not turned my amp on (lol). A friend of mine ran on stage and turned it on and saved my dumb ass.

Looking ahead, what can fans expect next from ReeToxA after this release?

I have just started pre production on our second album which I hope to use Simon Moro again and the same session musicians. Then form a live band and do a tour! Should be out march.

Listen to Redneck Love below