Review Fix chats with Tonic’s lead singer Emerson Hart, who discusses his new solo album, “Beauty in Disrepair,†set for an April 15 release, as well as his creative process, taking care of his voice and his goals for 2014.
One of the most talented singers of the ‘90s, thanks to hits the likes of “If You Could Only See†and “You Wanted More,†Hart still has plenty of ability and creative juice left in his tank.
Review Fix: What was the creative process behind this album?
Emerson Hart: Like most records for me I have to live through something to find the music behind it. Once I find the thread of what I want to say it tends to follow after.
Review Fix: What song do you think people will enjoy the most? Why?
Hart: That’s a hard one as I feel like all the songs on this record has something to offer. Right now I am digging “You know who I am” because it feels so simple.
Review Fix: It’s been over a decade since your first big splash with Tonic. Your voice hadn’t aged at all. How do you take care of it?
Hart: You have to keep singing, rest and staying hydrated is a big part of that but warming up and doing a quick warm down after a show can keep your voice going on tour.
Review Fix: You’ve got a great band behind you for this album, especially on guitar. While your voice is obviously the driving force, how important do you feel the rest of the band is here?
Hart: I loved everyone I worked with on this record. A painting is a combo of many different colors and they all have a role to play in the final work.
Review Fix: What song do you think has the best story behind it? Can you share?
Hart: One of the stories on this record is the song “Hurricane.” I almost destroyed my relationship because of fear and it took a storm to make me realize what I had done. It hit my restart button.
Review Fix: So many of the songs are about love. Is this something that drives you?
Hart: There are many things that drive me creatively but love…both sides of it never stop inspiring me.
Review Fix: How do you want this album to affect people?
Hart: I want people to find a song that is part of their story. Music is about connecting.
Review Fix: What are your goals for this year?
Hart: I look forward to sharing this record with people live. Performing is a big part of my joy when it comes to music.
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