Keith Urban on Working with Taylor Swift, Loving Springsteen, and His Confessional New Songs
Sep 30, 2024
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Keith Urban, a renowned country musician, dives into his collaboration with Taylor Swift, sharing insights into their unique creative process. He expresses his admiration for Bruce Springsteen and discusses the spontaneity of live performances, including unexpected cover songs. Urban reflects on his new album, 'High,' revealing the emotional depth behind tracks like 'Break the Chain.' The conversation also touches on the evolution of fingerstyle guitar techniques and the importance of blending genres in today’s music landscape.
Keith Urban emphasizes the spontaneity in his live performances, allowing him to adapt songs based on immediate audience inspiration.
In discussing his new album 'High,' Urban highlights the importance of artistic freedom and personal responsibility in his songwriting journey.
Deep dives
Bucky's Pop-Up Show Experience
Keith Urban shares his recent experience performing at Bucky's, a unique gas station in Texas known for its larger-than-life aesthetics. Although initially feeling underprepared due to overwhelming attendance, Urban describes the spontaneous nature of the event, where he set up a small stage for an intimate performance. The quirky atmosphere and unexpected crowd turned the experience into a memorable gig, highlighting the blend of spontaneity and creativity in live music. Urban humorously recalls the traffic jam that made him realize they might need a bigger sound system, but ultimately, the fun of the event overshadowed any logistical concerns.
Spontaneity in Live Performances
Urban discusses how spontaneity plays a crucial role in his live performances, particularly regarding cover songs. He selects covers based on immediate inspiration, often deciding in the moment what fits the vibe of the show. His performances are fluid and adaptable, allowing him to extend, shorten, or change songs on the fly without feeling confined to a strict setlist. This approach emphasizes the importance of being present and responsive to the audience during live performances, enabling a more authentic musical experience.
Artistic Growth and Freedom in Music
Urban reflects on the feedback he received regarding his new album, 'High,' and how perceptions of his previous work influence expectations. He emphasizes the importance of artistic freedom, enjoying the process of creating music without feeling pressured to adhere to past standards. By acknowledging that external opinions don't define his artistry, he expresses a desire to explore diverse musical influences without limitations. The album represents a culmination of his experiences and a celebration of the creative process, merging both structured and spontaneous elements.
Personal Reflections in Songwriting
In discussing his song 'Break the Chain,' Urban reveals the deeply personal nature of the lyrics and how his upbringing shaped his outlook. He shares his complex relationship with his father and the struggle against familial patterns influenced by alcoholism. The song's message centers on the transformative power of personal responsibility and the possibility of change, regardless of past hardships. Urban's collaboration during the songwriting process brought forth emotions he had not anticipated, resulting in a raw and authentic musical expression that resonates with listeners.
Keith Urban talks about his work with Taylor Swift, his Bruce Springsteen fandom, the art of lead guitar, the making of his new album, High, and much more in an interview with host Brian Hiatt