Can you tell us about your latest project? What inspired it, and what can your fans expect from it?
The Oh Boys just released a new single called “Cry Me to the Moon”. It’s an upbeat summer song but deals with the mixed emotions that come with the fear of getting hurt when falling for someone new. Musically, the song is inspired by some of the dynamic duos of the 60s. Think Peter & Gordon, Lennon & McCartney or the Everly Brothers.
Songwriting can be a cathartic process. What emotions or messages do you hope your music conveys to listeners?
The music takes on an upbeat, almost optimistic tone that connects with the euphoria of falling in love but the lyrics tell a story of fear and rejection. When we fall for someone, we find ourselves very vulnerable. The song about acknowledging that risk and the pain that could come from a love unrequited.
How has your musical style evolved over the years, and what do you hope to convey through your music now compared to when you first started your career?
Melody has always been paramount for me. With harmony being a close second. That hasn’t really changed for me since I started writing songs. I’m always seeking to surprise myself somehow. The medium and style has changed over the years. My first foray into writing was more acoustic/folk oriented. Just song that I might play solo. Now my focus is writing songs for my trio, the Oh Boys. Shaun and Kieran are immensely talented musicians, so they inspire me by knowing what they’re capable of.
Many fans look up to their favorite artists as role models. What advice do you have for aspiring musicians who hope to make a name for themselves in the music industry?
Read “the War of Art” by Steven Pressfield. I found this immensely helpful in recognizing some of the invisible barriers you encounter along this path. At the end of the day, it’s gotta be about the music. You gotta love the craft deeply and you can embrace the journey, you’ll find success. If you’re in it for any other reason, you’ll be disappointed.
In the age of streaming and digital platforms, how do you navigate the challenges of making a living as a recording artist, and what advice would you give to aspiring musicians trying to break into the industry?
It’s a brave new world out there for the musician. In many ways, it’s better than ever, because you have all these tools amazing tool to create and distribute music and connect with people around the world at your fingertips. On the other hand, it can be totally overwhelming and you can feel like but a drop in the ocean. Be sure to connect on a local level. Play shows. Make connection with other artists. Collaborate. Support each other.
Your image and style often become part of your brand as an artist. How do you approach your personal image and fashion choices to express yourself and connect with your fans?
You can’t chase cool. Wear what makes you feel snazzy. I’ve always liked to thrift, shop vintage. Make my own style. I also love a cohesive look in a band. I like to dress it up and coordinate when we play shows. Most of my favorite bands have done that.
The future is always uncertain, but what are your long-term goals and aspirations as a recording artist, and what can your fans expect from you in the coming years?
Like any artist or band, I’d like my songs to connect with people and to reach a wider audience in the coming years. The Oh Boys have several new songs in the mixing process right now that we plan to release this fall. I’ve also got a solo Christmas record set for an online release this holiday season. In 2025, The Oh Boys plan to tour and perform new material and I’ve got some collaborations coming with some other artists that I’m excited about. Simply put, continue to challenge myself and make music that I love and hopefully some others will like it too.