Canadian singer/songwriter Josh Taerk last released an album three years but tomorrow (Friday, September 28th) he returns with his brand new LP ‘Beautiful Tragedy’ and it is arguably his best record to date. It has been inspired by heartbreak, tales of love and friendship and it’s guaranteed to strike a chord with listeners across the world.
Here we speak exclusively to Josh Taerk to discuss his new album, touring and long term goals:
It has been 3 years since you last released an album, how would you describe your musical growth over the years?
Every time I write and record new music I feel like I discover more about myself as an artist, and this album really taught me a lot. When I write, it’s like I’m sharpening a blade. With every new song I’m working my craft, refining it, experimenting with it, and pushing what I do to the next level. I feel like the experiences that lead me to this album shaped not only the way I wrote, produced, and arranged the album but also shaped me as an artist and as a person.
What would you say the biggest change sonically has been since your last record?
I wanted this album to represent who I am instead of just showcasing a specific sound or genre. I’ve never fit into just one category; I’m influenced and inspired by a lot of different things that sometimes seem completely opposite. That’s what makes this album unique. My co-producer, Teddy, and I took the melodies and hooks of pop music, the energy and grit of rock and country, the personal and emotional story telling of singer-songwriters and put them all together to make each song what it is.
Your new album drops on September 28th, do you feel the time out has helped shape the new project?
Yeah. If I didn’t do what I had done in those 3 years, experienced all of the things I experienced, toured, travelled, and lived then this record wouldn’t be the same.
How would you describe the sound of your new record?
As I said before, this album is a combination of all of the different things that have inspired me as an artist. I took the melodies and hooks of pop music, the energy and grit of rock and country, the personal and emotional story telling of singer-songwriters, and combined them to make this record.
When you were writing for the LP, where did you look to for inspiration?
The best songs always come from the truth. It’s the honesty and authenticity that makes a song relatable and makes me want to listen to it again and again. I write about the way I feel, the things happening around me, to me, for me, and about the things people very close to me are going through.
What do you hope fans take from record?
The biggest reason I continue to write is to connect with people. The stories on this album are about finding love, finding yourself and deciding what kind of life you want to live. I hope that my fans listen to this record and know that other people are asking the same questions they are, and that I’m also on the journey of figuring out where I go from here.
Do you feel your songwriting has matured during your three year hiatus?
For me it’s not as much about the physical time between records. I think that every time I write a new song and work my craft it not only develops but grows. It’s like muscle memory, the more you work a muscle the stronger it becomes, and because it gets stronger you can do things with it you couldn’t do before.
Is there one song in particular off your new album that you are most excited about sharing?
I’m really excited for people to hear “Midnight Mustang.” It’s such a fun song to play live, and since I started putting it in my live shows crowds have been loving it!
Do you have any plans to tour your new music?
I’ve got 5 shows coming up in the UK. 1 in Glasgow, 1 in Edinburgh, and 3 in London. As well as a North American university town tour starting in the middle of October. You can find details about all my upcoming shows on my website or on my Facebook page.
What are your long term career goals?
Making music and touring have been my dream since I first picked up a guitar. As long as I get to continue living my dream, I’m happy. Goal wise, I have my sights on international sold out stadium tours and records that connect with people so much that they go triple platinum.
Make sure you follow Josh Taerk on Twitter @JoshTaerk to keep up to date with all his latest music and tour news!
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