Read the statement.
The lead singer of Ghost, known until now as Papa Emeritus, has publicly revealed his identity for the first time since the band's formation. Already identified through legal proceedings initiated by former members , vocalist Tobias Forge had never officially confirmed the revelation.
The statement was made during a program on the Swedish radio station “Sommar i P1”, where a music personality is invited to talk for 90 minutes about whatever they want and play the music of their choice.
Forge used part of his time to pay tribute to his brother Sebastian, who passed away in 2009 shortly after Ghost posted their first song on MySpace. Forge gave an emotional speech addressed to his brother, recounting everything he had gone through in recent years. Below is a transcript of the final part of the program:
“We just got back home after seven weeks with Iron Maiden. Can you imagine that? We’re playing in hockey arenas, people like it. Apparently we have a large fan base out there.”
We just need to record a new album every now and then. In the spring we can go back on tour again and then another year and a half on the road. We don't get a break. No quiet moments, no rest. I told you I'd work non-stop if I found a job I loved. Do you remember?
Did I tell you about the Grammy, by the way? We won one of those a year ago. We were in Los Angeles and went to a celebrity party, it was huge. Our mom is proud, and she tells everyone who I am, even though it has to be a secret. But I guess it doesn't matter anymore.
I feel like you're with me everywhere, and we're happy together with everything that's happening. One thing you need to know… I'm still your biggest fan. Thank you for everything, my beloved brother.
My name is Tobias Forge. I am the man behind the mask in Ghost.
*Translation of the speech transcript posted by a fan on Reddit