Today, John Roberts, the Emmy-nominated actor, comedian and recording artist best known as the voice of Linda Belcher on Bob’s Burgers, released his new single “Complicated” and its corresponding music video inspired by queer underground cinema and classic horror films. “Complicated” is the second single from Roberts’ forthcoming album I Am (out Nov. 20).
“The inspiration behind this track is very Scorpio at night and nightlife. Not being able to control the urge to go out and hook up,” Roberts said in Friday’s press release.
The video for “Complicated” brings those themes into a world shaped by queer cult cinema and vintage horror. Drawing from Kenneth Anger’s Scorpio Rising and William Friedkin’s Cruising with some atmospheric vibes of The Wolf Man, Roberts injects a lot of bare skin into the visual as well.
From publicity:
The song and video also reflect Roberts’ longtime connection to New York City’s downtown nightlife and music scenes. Long before becoming the unmistakable voice of Linda Belcher on Bob’s Burgers, Roberts was immersed in the city’s queer club culture, developing a love for electronic and dance music that stretches back to the ’90s rave scene. Those influences have remained central to his music career, which has included collaborations with Debbie Harry, Beth Ditto, Blondie, Junior Sanchez, Big Black Delta and Benny Benassi.
Roberts made his solo debut with 2019’s Looking, produced by Big Black Delta. His 2021 album Lights Out, produced by Junior Sanchez, pushed further into electronic and club music and featured collaborations with Harry and Beth Ditto, along with remixes from Felix da Housecat and Harry Romero. Last year, Roberts released Outside is a Clown, a 13-track collection featuring production from Kevin Rudolf, Big Black Delta and Junior Sanchez.
In addition to his work on Bob’s Burgers, which will return for Season 17 in early 2027, Roberts has opened for Margaret Cho, and starred in the comedy drama Stress Positions (2024) and romantic comedy Fire Island (2022).
Watch the video for “Complicated” below:
–Rich Lopez