Today we Spotlight – Rod Black. We got to sit down with Rod recently to talk about his music and the new release Laketown. With his EP scheduled later this year, Canadian Country is in for some great new tunes.
What got you first interested in music?
My first interest in music would probably be my dad jammin’ with the guitar when I was very, very little. I was intrigued by the sounds at an early age and a few years later, I found myself on stage singing in a Christmas play. As they say, the rest is history.
Who were some of your main influences growing up, and who would be some artists folks would be surprised you adore?
I definitely grew up listening to all kinds of music – Presley, Jennings, Cash, and – of course – AC/DC, just a name a few. We listened to all kinds of music in our household.
Who would you want to collab with if you had the chance?
I don’t even really have to think about that one. I’ve always wanted to do a duet with Pink. Ironically, we were both on the same record label (Island DEF/Jam), but that’s a whole different story!
What is some of the best advice you have been given during your music career?
I’ve received a lot of great advice throughout the years. The big ones that stand out are:
- Write from the heart.
- Treat the janitor of the venue that you’re performing at like he’s the owner of the establishment.
- Respect is key. It’s great advice from my Dad.
You’re based out of Langley currently, but were raised a Saskatchewan prairie boy. How do you think growing up somewhere like Saskatchewan impacted you’re writing/songcraft?
Growing up in Saskatchewan and being raised around a rodeo family definitely inspired me as a songwriter. It also gave me a solid work ethic, strong family values, and overall, great stories along the way.
You released Laketown earlier this summer. What was the writing process like?
Working on “Laketown” just kind of fell into place naturally – like a good song should do. My writing partner Jeff Johnson came up with a really cool guitar riff, and that inspired both of us to think about the summertime. “Laketown” was created from there.
You also released Barely Gettin’ By and Walk On within the last year- can fans expect an EP soon?
We’re currently working on the EP right now and aiming to have it out this year. I feel this is gonna be a very special recording project and I can’t wait to share it with everyone!
How did you handle your covid season?
I spent a lot of time catching up with friends and family on the phone. I look at the time I’ve had as a blessing overall – the opportunity to connect with family, friends, and find inspiration for songwriting.
You recently did a 3-song performance for Scenes Live Sessions. How different are acoustic sessions for you as a performer vs a big live event?
Thanks for checking it out!
Performing the songs acoustically is always fun because it’s organic – it’s just a bunch of musicians in the studio having fun and hopefully, the audience feels that energy come through.
It’s definitely a different experience whereas when we perform at a bigger live event, the guitars get louder and the energy increases immensely, it’s all about having a good time either way.
With things looking better for fall 2021 do you have any live shows you’re excited about? How about tours?
I’m looking forward to the fall. We have some fun things coming, so you’ll just have to wait and see.
I’ve also got a bunch of benefits set up to help my sister with her recovery. Unfortunately this last February, she had a brain aneurism, and we’re definitely impressed by how far she’s come so far. I’m just trying to do the best that I can to help my family in the process.
You’ve done many interviews in the past. I’m curious, what is one thing you wish that people knew about you?
I don’t smile a lot, I guess I got that from my Dad, uncles, and grandpa. I do have a fun side, though I literally live in the moment and appreciate every day as it comes… I’m working on the “smiling a lil’ more thing”. 🙂
We here at Hidden Beats love to promote other Canadians, so what are some of your local favorite places to hype up and give a shout out to?
Well, definitely number one is my little sister, Sayde Black. Before the unfortunate incident, she was in the studio recording her new single “Superwoman”, which I find very ironic. It comes out soon and I imagine that song will inspire a lot of people along the way.
Other artists like Hillside Outlaws, Crystal McGrath, Rye ‘N Wild, Aaron Allen, Chris Buck, Wes Mack, and Kadooh are some very good choices for people to check out if they haven’t heard of them already.
Also, I just want to say thank you for taking the time to interview me.
Stay safe out there everyone and be good to each other.
Spotlight – Rod Black is in the books. Big thanks to Rod for chatting with us.
Check out Laketown right now
Keep up with Rod right here
We love to Shine a Spotlight on amazing artists so please reach out