Imogen Heap Makes Billboard hot 100 History With Viral Hit “Headlock”
Imogen Heap, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for pushing musical boundaries, has reached a meaningful milestone. Her 2005 track “Headlock,” originally featured on her album Speak for Yourself,has finally debuted on the Billboard Hot 100,landing at number 100 on the chart dated January 25,2025.
This surge in popularity can be attributed too the viral wave generated by the psychological horror game Mouthwashing. Fans have embraced “headlock” as the perfect eerie soundtrack for their gameplay videos, creating a spine-tingling atmosphere that has resonated deeply on platforms like TikTok. The song has been used in over 135,000 clips, propelling it back into the mainstream consciousness.
but “Headlock” isn’t Heap’s only song to find commercial success. Her previous album, Speak for Yourself, housed the breakout hit “Hide and Seek.” This track gained significant traction after being featured in a pivotal scene in the second season finale of The O.C., solidifying its place in pop culture history. The song’s popularity was further amplified when the comedic group The Lonely Island parodied it on Saturday Night Live. “Hide and Seek” has as been reinterpreted in other popular shows like Degrassi: The next generation and Normal People. Its memorable bridge, “mmm, whatcha say,” was even sampled prominently as the main hook in Jason Derulo’s 2009 smash hit “Whatcha Say,” with Heap credited as a co-writer on the accomplished track.
Heap’s success extends beyond solo work; she has also achieved chart success as a collaborator. Notably, she co-wrote and co-produced Taylor Swift’s “Clean (Taylor’s Version),” which reached number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 2023.
This latest achievement speaks volumes about the enduring power of Heap’s music, its ability to transcend generations and genres, and the profound impact of viral trends on shaping cultural conversations.
“Headlock” to Billboard Success: An Interview with Imogen Heap
Imogen Heap, a musical pioneer known for her innovative songwriting, recently achieved a remarkable feat: her 2005 hit “Headlock” surged onto the Billboard Hot 100, debuting at number 100 on January 25, 2025.
This unexpected climb comes courtesy of a viral resurgence fueled by its unexpected pairing with the psychological horror game, _Mouthwashing_. Fans have discovered that “Headlock” provides the perfect soundtrack for gameplay footage, creating an eerie atmosphere that resonates deeply on platforms like TikTok. With over 135,000 clips featuring the song, “headlock” has tapped back into mainstream consciousness.
We caught up with Heap to discuss this incredible turn of events: “It’s incredible how different mediums can interplay,” she shared.”I never expected ‘Headlock’ to find new life through a video game, but it just goes to show how potent the combination of captivating music and engaging content can be.”
“Headlock” isn’t Heap’s only chart success story. Her previous album,_Speak For Yourself_, featured the breakout hit “Hide and Seek”. Featured in a pivotal scene in The O.C.’s second-season finale,the song quickly became a cultural touchstone. Later parodied by The Lonely Island on _Saturday Night Live_, “Hide and Seek” has been referenced in popular shows like
_Degrassi: The Next Generation_ and _Normal People_. Its memorable bridge, “mmm, whatcha say,” was even prominently sampled in Jason Derulo’s 2009 smash hit “Whatcha Say.” Heap is notably credited as a co-writer on Derulo’s track.
Heap’s creative talents extend beyond her solo career. She has achieved chart success as a collaborator, notably co-writing and co-producing taylor Swift’s “Clean (Taylor’s Version)”, which reached number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 2023.
When asked about her secret to crossing generations and genres, Heap reflects, “I think it’s all about staying true to your artistic vision. If you create something authentic, it will naturally resonate with fans, nonetheless of where thay’re from or how old they are.”
Given the volatile nature of the music industry, we were curious about Heap’s thoughts on the impact of virality on the longevity of songs.
The music industry is a whirlwind of trends, with viral hits exploding onto the scene seemingly overnight. But what separates a fleeting moment of fame from enduring musical success? One artist, known for navigating this landscape with finesse, offers a compelling outlook. “viral trends can certainly boost a song’s popularity quickly,” she shares, “But whether it has lasting power depends on the song itself. If it’s truly compelling, it will continue to resonate with listeners, regardless of whether it’s currently viral or not.”
This insightful observation speaks volumes about the essence of creating music that transcends fleeting trends. While viral moments can undoubtedly provide a powerful initial push, the true measure of an artist’s impact lies in crafting music that connects with listeners on a deeper level.
Looking ahead,this artist remains focused on artistic evolution. “I’m always experimenting and evolving as an artist,” she hints, her voice brimming with excitement. “I’m looking forward to seeing where my musical journey takes me next. Who knows? Maybe another unexpected gem will emerge, captivating audiences in the most surprising ways.”
Why did “Headlock” resonate with horror game developers like those behind “Mouthwashing?
Archyde: Hello, Everyone! We’re thrilled today to have the incredibly talented Imogen Heap joining us. Welcome, Imogen!
Imogen Heap: hi there! Thank you so much for having me. I’m glad to be here.
Archyde: Your song “Headlock” has just made Billboard history, debuting on the Hot 100 after 18 long years. That must feel incredible!
Imogen Heap: It really is insane! I’m still pinching myself. To see “Headlock” finally get its moment on the Billboard Hot 100 is such a surreal and validating experiance. I’m incredibly grateful to all the fans who have embraced it and made this happen.
Archyde: Tell us about the role Mouthwashing, the psychological horror game, played in igniting this viral wave for “Headlock.” How did you first find out about its connection to the game?
Imogen Heap: I remember seeing these TikTok videos set to “Headlock” and being utterly terrified myself! [laughs] I had no idea what was happening or why my song was suddenly in all these creepy gameplays. Then, my team brought it to my attention that it was because of Mouthwashing. I was blown away – I had no clue my music could create such an eerie atmosphere for a game.
Archyde: It’s captivating how a song can transcend its original intent and find new life in unanticipated contexts like this. What do you think it is about “Headlock” that makes it such a great fit for a horror game?
Imogen Heap: I think it’s the chord progression and the ambiance I created in the studio. It has this subtle, yet unsettling tension that builds throughout the track. When you pair it with visuals like those in Mouthwashing, it amplifies that feeling of unease. it’s brilliant how fans have embraced this combination.
Archyde: speaking of transcending contexts, “Hide and Seek” has had an incredible journey in popular culture.From being featured in The O.C. to being sampled in Jason Derulo’s “Whatcha Say,” it seems like your music has a knack for becoming part of the cultural zeitgeist.
Imogen Heap: [smiles] That’s a lovely way to put it. I suppose each song comes from a genuine place, and when something resonates with people, it creates this ripple effect that I can’t always predict. I’m just grateful that my music touches so many lives in various ways.
archyde: Your work also extends beyond your solo projects. You’ve collaborated with artists like Taylor Swift,co-writing and co-producing “Clean (Taylor’s Version).” How dose your creative process change when working with other artists, compared to when you’re working on your own material?
Imogen heap: It’s a different dynamic, for sure. When I’m working on my own,I have the freedom to explore every nook and cranny of an idea without any constraints. But when I collaborate, I bring that same curiosity and openness, while also being mindful of the other artist’s vision. it’s about meeting in the middle and finding that sweet spot where everyone feels heard and inspired. Working with Taylor was an absolute joy – she’s incredibly talented and open to pushing boundaries.
Archyde: Your music has consistently pushed those boundaries. From your early work to your latest projects,you’ve always been at the forefront of technological advancements in music. What’s next for you,creatively speaking?
Imogen Heap: I’ve been really excited about exploring more immersive audio experiences,like spatial audio and AI-generated music. I believe there’s so much more we can do to enhance the way we listen to and interact with music.I’m also eager to keep working on my body of work, teasing out more stories and sounds that have been percolating in my mind. I’ve got plenty up my sleeve! [winks]
Archyde: We can’t wait to hear what you come up with next. Thank you so much for joining us today, Imogen. It’s been an absolute pleasure.
Imogen Heap: Thank you! It’s been a blast.
