How would you describe your musical style?

I’d say it’s a mix of a lot of things. I mainly aim to make the lyrics stand out, so the style can change based on what I’m trying to say in the song. Most people say my sound is close to Folk/Rock, but I’ve heard others throw around terms like Americana or Acoustic Rock too. I’m pretty much an acoustic guitar guy, and that vibe comes through in a lot of my songs. But don’t be surprised if you catch some Country or Rock and Roll when the song calls for it!

What was the inspiration behind your latest album, “More”

I was inspired one day while watching a football game, a passion of mine. As one team solidified their lead, the coach kept urging his players with the word “MORE” as they left the field. This made me reflect on the importance of continuous growth and ambition in life. Instead of resting on our laurels, being “comfortable”, we should consistently push ourselves to achieve more. This philosophy became the central theme for my album, emphasizing the importance of always striving for more and challenging ourselves. Refusing to compromise what could be by settling for what is convenient and easy.

The title cut is a self-reflection examining personal relationships:

“I can’t help but wonder if there can be

More than a friend,

More than a lover,

More than just moments we share with each other.

More than a smile,

More than a touch,

More than just illusion

Of what we call love”.

What has been the most rewarding experience of your career so far?

The best part of making music is hearing that it actually meant something to someone. If someone tells me my song got them thinking or helped them through a tough time, or even just made their day a bit brighter—that’s just the best feeling. I’ve been fortunate to experience those interactions many times in my career. It’s why I do what I do.

What do you think sets your music apart from other artists?

My primary focus in music is on the storytelling and lyrical content of each song. I view life as a complex tapestry of experiences and lessons learned, which I aim to translate into my work. Musically, I employ a lot of acoustic guitar sounds designed to underscore the narrative. The resonance and expressiveness of these instruments serve to direct the listener’s attention to the story I am telling. I don’t think that style is so prevalent in today’s music. It may be what sets me apart from many other artists.

What advice would you give to aspiring singer-songwriters?

Be yourself. The essence of songwriting and performing is to first craft a genuine narrative from one’s own experiences and emotions. Once that’s in place, the music and arrangements should be constructed to amplify and accentuate that story, ensuring it captures the listener’s attention. Authenticity is paramount; it allows listeners to genuinely connect with what’s being conveyed. At its core, music is about forging connections with the audience, allowing them to resonate with the stories shared, and facilitating a shared emotional journey.

What has been the most challenging experience you’ve faced in your career?

It’s intriguing how the process of songwriting unfolds. Sometimes, a story that begins as an observation or an external narrative evolves into something deeply personal. With our first single “Hideaway”, even though it began as an account of someone else’s experience, the journey of crafting it drew out elements that resonated with my own life. Delving into those emotions, bringing them to the surface, and then translating them into a song is a challenging feat. Baring oneself and those feelings for listeners is a vulnerable act, but it’s my sincere hope that I was able to accomplish that depth and sincerity in “Hideaway”.

What has been the biggest challenge you have overcome in your lifetime?

I’m naturally an introvert who loves alone time, but it seems life has always put me in many front-and-center roles, performing music, coaching sports, or leading large groups of people. It’s like I have to switch on this outgoing version of myself, even though I’d much rather be sitting on a rock by a river alone with my thoughts. That’s a real challenge, but it also can be a strength. My quieter side gives me a unique perspective that I try to bring into my public roles. I try to find a way to balance the two—to be the performer when I need to be, and then retire into my cherished alone time to recharge.

How do you maintain an emotional connection with your fans through your music?

Music is like the soundtrack to our emotions, right? When I write songs, it’s not just about the lyrics. The music itself is another way to get those feelings across. I think that’s why some fans really connect with it. They’re not just hearing the lyrics; they’re feeling the music and seeing where my journey crosses paths with theirs. It’s also the way I play the music. When I perform a song, I try to go back to the same place emotionally I was in when I wrote it. I feel it myself and that comes across to my audience and they feel it too. It’s like we’re sharing this emotional ride together, and that’s really special.

How has your songwriting process evolved over the years?

Chasing hits and aiming for that radio-friendly sound is something many artists grapple with. It’s alluring, wanting to create that catchy tune everyone hums along to. But there’s so much more depth in being a storyteller. With time, I’ve realized that the real magic happens when the story takes center stage. Now, for me, it’s all about nailing down the message of the song. Once that’s in place, the melody and other musical elements naturally follow to complement the story. Throw in some unique musical hooks, twists, and turns, and then you may just have something that can resonate on a deeper level, while getting the listeners attention.

What is the one thing that you would like people to remember about you and your music?

I hope they see that I am not just giving listeners just a catchy tune to dance to. I try to offer them something deeper, something more meaningful. I want my music to be a window where people can see into who I am, warts and all, as well as being a mirror to examine themselves. I am challenging them to think, to explore their own lives and feelings, as I personally do when I write the songs. Music that pushes us to confront who we are and what we feel, is the kind of art that leaves a lasting impact. If I am somehow able to accomplish this at some level, and be remembered as such, mission accomplished.