Tori Amos, the iconic rock musician known for her hit “Cornflake Girl,” is embarking on a world tour to promote her latest album, *In Times of Dragons*. With a career spanning over three decades and multiple Grammy nominations, the 62-year-old artist reflects on the challenges of touring once again, especially after a lengthy hiatus spent at home.
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In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Amos opened up about the physical demands of performing live, particularly the toll it can take on her hands. “When you haven’t played the ‘Cornflake [Girl]’ solo or ‘Precious Things’ for three years and you start playing again, your hands are going to bleed,” she remarked, illustrating the intensity with which she approaches her craft. Amos didn’t hold back in admitting that the transition from her comfortable home environment to the rigours of live performance can come as quite a shock to the system.
Amos, a long-time resident of Cornwall, England, was preparing for her 35-date tour, which celebrates her 18th studio album, set to be released on May 1. This latest work aims to tackle current global issues, portrayed through a metaphorical narrative that emphasises the struggle for democracy in the face of rising tyranny.
The album features a storyline about a woman akin to Amos herself, who opts for an unconventional path—marrying a fictitious billionaire lizard king instead of her real-life husband, sound engineer Mark Hawley. “I had options, just so you and I understand each other,” she said slyly, hinting at the creative whims she explored. The album opens with a track titled “Shush,” which embodies the provocative spirit of her earlier work, showcasing Amos’s lyrical prowess.
Among the album’s standout tracks is “Stronger Together,” a duet with her daughter Tash, a law school student whose contemporary insights add depth to the project. Amos noted, “Having her perspective, she’s under no illusions about the knife edge we’re on,” underlining their collaborative creative process. Tash’s influence helped light a slightly upbeat tone amidst the darker themes permeating the record.
While the album grapples with serious issues, Amos acknowledges the need for occasional levity in her music. “That’s the sunniest you’re going to get. It goes pretty dark,” she said candidly about *In Times of Dragons*. The additional family connection on this album has provided a supportive layer that Amos clearly values.
Fans of Amos can expect a mixture of her classic hits alongside her fresh material during her upcoming performances. Known for engaging with her audience, she often encourages concertgoers to request songs, provided the timing is right. “Don’t yell out a different song during ‘Winter.’ You know what I mean?” she mused, demonstrating her playful yet professionally discerning nature.
Amos has also hinted at a potential changes in her footwear for this tour. Known for her affinity for towering heels, she is contemplating a shift to more manageable kitten heels following a mishap during her previous tour, which resulted in a broken leg and a lengthy recovery process. “I just said to [my stylist], ‘I can’t go through this again,’” she shared, hinting at her determination to avoid future injuries.
The impending tour represents not only a physical undertaking for Amos but also a chance to connect with fans and share her perspectives on the world through her music. With such a rich and varied career, Tori Amos continues to redefine her sound, and *In Times of Dragons* promises to be another fascinating chapter in her ever-evolving narrative.
As she prepares to hit the road, fans can anticipate a blend of nostalgia and innovation, showcasing not only her new material but also the timeless songs that have solidified her status as a truly unique artist in the music landscape. The album, *In Times of Dragons*, is poised for release on May 1, and the anticipation surrounding her upcoming tour is palpable as both old and new fans look forward to witnessing the artistry of Tori Amos live.