Emerging pop-rock sensation Walter Miller is making waves with his fearless blend of classic rock bravado and modern pop polish. His latest single, “Basic Instinct,” marks a bold new chapter in his career, merging the theatricality of ‘70s and ‘80s arena rock with contemporary energy and attitude. In this candid conversation, Walter opens up about embracing confidence, owning his identity, and pushing the boundaries of his artistry—both on stage and in life. From thigh-high boots to unapologetic self-expression, he shares how this single not only defines his sound but also reflects the artist he’s always meant to be.
“Basic Instinct” feels like a defining moment in your career. What internal shift allowed you to step into this new creative phase with so much confidence?
Thank you so much! When it comes to the shift, I guess never underestimate the power of what putting on some thigh-high boots can do for someone. I had been singing rock music with my band forever though, and always had plans to go into it, but realized that I should treat an album cycle as if it might be my last and make that music that I need the world to hear most. Rock was the natural answer, and I feel so comfortable in the genre.
How does “Basic Instinct” reflect who you are today compared to the artist you were when you first started making music?
When I first started I was insecure about pretty much everything. On stage and as a person. I didn’t even know if I’d ever even be able to come out, so now the fact that I’m not only openly gay but I don’t shy away from it in my music is really great. I feel like this album is filled with music that makes me think I’m finally turning into the artist I was always meant to become. It’s so exciting. I work out to my own music now too which is cool.
Your vocal performance on this track feels especially bold and unfiltered. What helped you trust your voice—both emotionally and technically—during the recording process?
A hell of a lot of practice and a lot of honesty from my collaborators on what works and what doesn’t. Collin Hanley helped me to be fearless and was so locked into what I wanted this song to give. Kory Shore also knows my voice like the back of his hand, and I wouldn’t be the vocalist I am today without having had Katie Crist and Skip Harris as vocal coaches. If someone thinks I’m any good, it’s only because they coached me into being that. Also all of the live shows I’ve done over the past couple of years have helped me in trusting my voice and trying new things.
The song reframes flaws as sources of strength. How has your relationship with imperfection changed over the course of your career?
I’m glad you think that because honestly I was just in a mood thinking about how hot guys are, and I wanted to write a sweaty, rugged ‘80s rock song you’d hear back in the day about women, but in my case it’s about men and showing that being gay doesn’t mean you have any less masculinity than the straight boys whatsoever. I guess why I never thought of the song framed that way is because how I’ve changed would be that I now don’t think it’s always necessarily not a good thing to be down bad for someone. Obviously know your worth, but there’s nothing wrong with simping over someone as long as you don’t lose your sense of self-confidence.
“Basic Instinct” blends modern production with a sense of classic energy. Why was that balance important in expressing this new chapter of your artistry?
I’m so glad you think so! I remember the first time I heard Dua Lipa’s “Future Nostalgia” album and it knocked me off my feet. But legit I was driving home with my friend and legit almost wrecked a couple of times because I was so gagged. Aside from the near accident, that type of excitement and shared experience I think is one of the best aspects of music. I feel like she and her team did such an amazing job and doing their homework in paying homage to disco of the past, but also updated the genre and brought it to the modern day so expertly. I wanted to do the same for stadium rock since I love that genre so much. I’d love for my music to reach people and inspire them to check out the legends that laid the groundwork for me to have a career, and maybe it’ll inspire the listener to make music of their own. So basically, finding that balance was crucial for this release in particular because it’d also determine how we approached the rest of the tracks.
As the lead single, how does this song set the emotional and thematic tone for the upcoming album?
Oh the album as a whole gets “wild” for sure just like this song flirts with. My album that’s currently in the vault right now I approached as a movie almost, while this album I approached as a thrill ride. Get ready for banger after banger.
When listeners connect with “Basic Instinct,” what do you hope they walk away feeling about themselves?
I hope they feel confident enough to let loose and be unapologetically themselves! Throw on some thigh-highs, take some shots, wear a loincloth, life’s too short to not have some fun!
If this song represents a personal breakthrough, how has that breakthrough begun to influence your life outside of music?
I think I’ve been a lot gayer recently so that’s always good. But really the song made me feel like I’mm making the music I was always meant to create, and that confidence has helped me to feel like I’m starting to meet the adult version of me I’m turning into. So my therapist has been busy too of course.
Looking ahead, what can fans expect from the album in terms of risk-taking, emotional honesty, and artistic growth?
The vocals, production, lyrics, pacing, album as a whole just really goes there. I feel like people forget how boundary-pushing rock used to be, and I hope to help in bribing that back. It’s an emotional rollercoaster too as I start strong with the stage persona then start to show glimmers of my real fears and anxieties by the end, but that in itself I think shows great artistic growth. I can’t wait to hear what y’all think!
PR: Decent Music PR
