Tuna on Toast with Stryker Tuna on Toast w Blue October - Justin Furstenfeld
Aug 11, 2023
Justin Furstenfeld, the lead singer of Blue October, shares insights into his band’s journey and his unique brand of 'reality music.' He discusses the influences behind his songwriting and how personal struggles led to candid hits like 'Hate Me.' Furstenfeld candidly recounts the challenges of being dropped from a label and the lessons learned along the way. He also reveals the creative process behind their upcoming triple album, highlights his collaboration with Billy Corgan, and reflects on balancing fame with family life.
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Leaving A Band Sparked Honest Songwriting
- Justin left his high-school band because they wouldn’t let him perform deeply personal songs and started writing brutally honest music instead.
- Playing intimate, honest songs like "Black Orchid" moved audiences and defined his creative path.
Specificity Creates Emotional Connection
- Justin calls his style "reality music": specific, descriptive songs that connect by being vulnerable and literal.
- He believed being specific in lyrics (streets, smells, details) creates stronger audience empathy.
Being Dropped Led To A Better Comeback
- Universal dropped Blue October after their 2000 album sold modestly, which Justin accepted as a timing mismatch rather than failure.
- He wrote "Calling You," signed to an indie, then re-signed with the original execs who already knew the band.
