Telle Smith, lead singer of The Word Alive, shares his journey from auditioning with Blessthefall to dealing with life-changing injuries on stage. He recalls faking his screaming skills at first and the emotional scars from a childhood incident with his brother. Telle candidly discusses the challenges of maintaining vocal health while touring, his evolution in mastering vocal techniques, and the risks he’s taken during performances, including a near-fatal stage dive. The conversation also touches on the creative process behind their new album and the healing power of music.
Telle Smith shares his journey in the music industry, transitioning from his earlier band In Fear and Faith to becoming the lead singer of The Word Alive.
The dangers of stage diving are highlighted as Telle recalls breaking his back during a performance while emphasizing the adrenaline it brings.
The discussion also covers the challenges of maintaining sobriety on tour, with Telle reflecting on personal experiences and the importance of prioritizing health.
Deep dives
Birthday Celebrations and Podcast Continuation
The episode highlights the host's birthday celebrations amidst a busy schedule. The host shares his experiences of spending time with friends and family, while also feeling under the weather. He emphasizes his determination to continue producing episodes despite personal celebrations, showcasing his commitment to the podcast. The previous episodes featuring notable guests like Spencer and Aaron of Under Oath set a high bar for content quality.
Interview with Telly Smith of The Word Alive
The conversation features an interview with Telly Smith, the lead singer of The Word Alive, exploring their longstanding friendship and musical journeys. They reflect on their initial meeting during a tour and reminisce about their experiences in the music industry. Telly shares insights about his journey from his previous band, In Fear and Faith, to his current role in The Word Alive. Their camaraderie and shared experiences in the industry highlight the bonds formed through music.
Stage Diving Accident and Injuries
Telly recounts a critical moment during a performance where he broke his back while stage diving, revealing the dangers of such actions in live shows. Despite the severity of his injury, he continues to emphasize the adrenaline and excitement that often accompany performances. Managing to finish the show after the accident showcases not only his dedication but also the intense adrenaline rush associated with live performances. The discussion raises awareness about the risks involved in stage diving and the possible implications for both artists and audience members.
Experiences with Sobriety and Touring
The conversation shifts to discuss the challenges of maintaining sobriety while on tour, with both the host and Telly sharing personal experiences. Telly reflects on his decision to go sober for a specified period and how it altered his perception of time and social events. He highlights the struggle of navigating social situations involving alcohol while reinforcing the importance of prioritizing one’s health. This exchange sheds light on the behind-the-scenes realities of touring life and its impact on performers' well-being.
Upcoming Projects and New Album Launch
The episode concludes with a discussion about The Word Alive's upcoming album, 'Dark Matter,' and the excitement surrounding its release. Telly introduces their new single, 'Trapped,' signaling a fresh musical direction and evolution for the band. He discusses the thought process behind the album, focusing on creating music that resonates not only with fans but also with their artistic instincts. This anticipation for new music encapsulates the ongoing journey of the band and their evolution in the music landscape.
Episode 14 - Shane sits down with his buddy Telle Smith of The Word Alive and they discuss: -Moving to California to "join the industry" -His audition with Blessthefall -His days in former bands In Fear and Faith and Greeley Estates -Faking knowing how to scream in A Word Alive at first -His brother stabbing him when he was 8 -Fully breaking his back stagediving, yet cancelling zero shows -Where he gets his nickname "Telle"