Norman Collins & the Tumblers are back with a new single, “I Wanna Rule Somebody,” taking listeners on a captivating musical journey. The song delves into the dynamics of power, revealing how individuals — be they relatives, coworkers, or political figures — can exert control over our lives.

With meticulously crafted lyrics and compelling instrumentals, this track invites you to listen, dance, and celebrate the art of storytelling through music. Released in late May, “I Wanna Rule Somebody” is part of the new album, Front Porch Philosopher, which also debuted in May.

“The song is a bit of a reference to Jim Jones and the Peoples Temple. In the late ’70s, he took a group to Guyana, leading hundreds of people to a mass murder-suicide. So, the song includes satirical elements. It’s a commentary on how some political or even spiritual leaders take advantage of power or become obsessed with it,” shared Collins.

On a personal level, this kind of power play might seem like a mere irritant; however, at a larger scale, the desire for control can cause significant harm. The song poignantly highlights that an obsession with power often masks deep-seated insecurities.

With its fiery and punchy delivery, reminiscent of Americana Rock — more rock ’n’ roll than folk music — ” Wanna Rule Somebody” stands out as a resonant anthem for our times, echoing the global tensions and quest for control that characterizes today’s geopolitical climate.

“I started with a basic riff and wrote a melody around it. That’s how I start all my songs,” said Collins. “But I’ve never written a song on the piano. All my songs have been on guitar. The chorus for this song was very rhythmic with a bridge that takes you out.”

Collins recorded “I Wanna Rule Somebody” along with the rest of the album at Para-Sight Records in the Valley, teaming up with producer Paul Kraushaar. Kraushaar reimagined many of Collins’ older songs, transforming them into almost entirely new tracks.

Initially, Collins was shocked by the drastic changes, feeling like his work was being completely repurposed. However, he eventually saw the brilliance in Kraushaar’s vision, recognizing the immense value a skilled arranger can bring to a song. The album features Kraushaar on bass, piano, and drums, along with a guitarist from Collins’ band.

“Although this song just came out in late May, I wrote the song in 1981,” enthused Collins. “I’ve played this song quite a bit, and it’s been somewhat of a showstopper; it’s a bombastic type of song.”

Front Porch Philosopher made its digital debut on May 22, with Collins hinting at plans for a physical release. The album features 10 songs curated by Kraushaar, who selected them after hearing Collins play through each selection on acoustic guitar.

Collins’ previous EP, Something to Say, which includes the international hit “Hey Marie,” garnered significant acclaim in early 2024. A prolific guitarist and songwriter, Collins’ discography boasts other notable LPs such as What the Cat Dragged In, In the Picture, Man About Town, and I Must Be Dreaming.

“Music has always been a big part of my life. Back in fifth grade, around 1962, I’d come home from school, head straight to our radio with its 15-inch speaker and play music until dinner time, then go right back to it afterward. I loved all the music from the ’60s—The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Radars. I was obsessed with B.B. King and Howlin’ Wolf. Since about the age of 14, I’ve never not been in a band,” laughed Collins.

After relocating with his family from New York to St. Louis at around age 16, Collins bought his first guitar. He quickly mastered his craft and absorbed the local blues, country, and soul influences. This path eventually gained him an introduction to Hank Ballard, president of Chess Records in Chicago, who hired Collins as a co-writer, leading to his contribution to a nationally released song.

Collins’ career has spanned some of Nashville’s most iconic recording studios, including the legendary RCA Studio B. From the start, he has been on the road, performing his original songs and recording with notable acts such as Jimmy Buffett, Hank Ballard, and John Hiatt, among others.

Although there is no music video yet for the new single, Collins shared that one is in the works. In the meantime, fans can catch Norman Collins & the Tumblers performing biweekly at San Pedro Square in San Jose. Follow Norman and the band on social media and stream “I Wanna Rule Somebody” on all major music platforms.