The most influential reviews.
The standard of the music industry since 1999.
Exclusive Interview with Rourke
Artist Spotlight: Rourke
Rock n’ roll enthusiast, Rourke, blends classic rock, politics, and compassion into his latest single, “I Can’t Breathe.” The single is part of a wider album, Starstruck, set to be released before the summer.
This Q&A gives fans a rare glimpse into the mind of one of music’s most respected voices.
BH Review: When did you begin to see music as more than a personal outlet?
Rourke: Instantly. I've always been involved in activism and social issues. During 2016, the political climate was very toxic, and I even found myself becoming toxic. Writing songs about these issues allowed me to express myself in a more productive manner
Rock n’ roll enthusiast, Rourke, blends classic rock, politics, and compassion into his latest single, “I Can’t Breathe.” The single is part of a wider album, Starstruck, set to be released before the summer.
This Q&A gives fans a rare glimpse into the mind of one of music’s most respected voices.
BH Review: When did you begin to see music as more than a personal outlet?
Rourke: Instantly. I've always been involved in activism and social issues. During 2016, the political climate was very toxic, and I even found myself becoming toxic. Writing songs about these issues allowed me to express myself in a more productive manner
BH Review: What personal traits do you think most influence your creative decisions?
Rourke: My rebellious nature, to not follow the norm. My producer pleaded with me not to go political with my album, but if I didn't, I would just be fake. My desire for authenticity, which can be seen in the vintage guitars we used in the recording, as well as the style of my vocals.
BH Review: How do ideas for new songs or projects usually take shape for you?
Rourke: Melodies and themes/stores are typically separate for me. Most of the songs on my album, the themes and melodies were separate. It was a matter of finding out which ones connected. There are a few songs where the narrative and music happen at the same time. One example is my Michelle Obama song "Rise". I was sitting in my living room watching TV and noodling on my guitar. The TV program aired a clip of Michelle saying, "When they go low, we go high". As soon as I heard that, I instinctively played a melody on my guitar that matched what she said. I simply changed the lyric to "when they go low, we rise".
BH Review: What helps you stay productive during periods of creative uncertainty?
Rourke: Taking a break for a while, working on something else. Playing devil's advocate with myself, like trying something totally random to maybe inspire me.
BH Review: How would you describe the elements that define your sound today?
Rourke:Everyone hears and sees things differently. One person compared my song "Rise" to Bon Jovi, someone else compared it to Green Day, and one guy even heard Blondie in it. I love Blondie, but don't really get that one. Overall, I describe my music as 70s Springsteen meets 80s Guns n Roses, with a little bit of Joe Strummer. One thing I love about my album is that none of the songs sound the same. Some are Stonesy, some have a pop Beatles vibe, and some have a U2 or Radiohead vibe.
BH Review: How do you approach evolving musically while maintaining consistency in your work?
Rourke: If it comes from me, it will be consistent. (a lesson from Mr Miyagi)
BH Review: What have been some of the most important lessons you’ve learned navigating the music industry?
Rourke: Personally, I need to be more visible. I need to play more and post more of myself. I need to interact more with others in this field.
BH Review: How do you balance creative priorities with the practical realities of releasing music?
Rourke: Take my time. I had to put my album on hold when COVID hit due to all of my money going out the window. Just be patient.
BH Review: What was the focus or intention behind your most recent release?
Rourke: "I Can't Breathe" is a song about the black experience in America. My intent was to tell the story in five sections, with each section representing a different emotion of that experience. Fear, Anger, Sadness, Frustration, and Hope.
BH Review: How did the creation of this project differ from your earlier work?
Rourke: "Breathe" was the last song I wrote on my album. It was the last one we recorded. It was more polished and focused.
COMMENTS
Leave a comment