A Little Q&A with Royal Wood
Author: Griffin Sokal
September 14 2011
Mr. Royal Wood was kind enough to answer a few questions I had and I’m eager to share them with you. The Juno-nominated singer songwriter and producer released a much celebrated album in 2010 (The Waiting) and has one on the way.
GS: Your last album was released to much acclaim. How do you feel your 2012 album will compare? Is the best yet to come?
RW: I always strive to create something that resonates on a deep level. If I can accomplish that, the rest will follow.
GS: You are asking your fans for input on what songs should be on the upcoming album through Twitter & Facebook. How does it feel to open your music up to criticism like that? I once heard a musician describe their songs as their ‘babies’.
RW: I most certainly few my works as sons and daughters. However, every parent knows they have a favourite.
GS: How has the social media world helped or hindered your career so far?
RW: Social media has only aided. It allows a connection with fans that before was limited and cost far too much monetary investment in terms of advertising and promotion.
GS: Fans who attend your shows this fall and pre-purchase your upcoming album will go home with your Cover Sessions EP. Of all the people whose songs you've considering covering or have covered, is there somebody whose writing is best suited for you?
RW: No. If a song connects with me personally, than it is right for me. So I wouldn't put parameters such as only a certain artist or collective.
GS: What was the weirdest song you’ve been suggested to cover?
RW: "Pokerface" by Lady Gaga.
GS: What is a normal day for Royal?
RW: There isn't a normal day. Artists go through cycles. We have the writing cycle. The recording cycle. The touring cycle. And somewhere in there we try to have a personal life. I certainly strive to find time to cook, read and enjoy my espresso each morning.
GS: I like how you dress. It’s like a throwback to a classier time. Tell me how your style originated.
RW: I was brought up on old movies, vinyl and reel-to-reel tape. Given that inspiration, wearing a suit just seemed a natural evolution.
GS: You’re starting your Sneak Peek tour in Winnipeg. Has the reception there been great for you in the past – or what was the reason to start in the centre of the country?
RW: I have routinely sold out in Winnipeg, but that is not why we are launching the tour there. Booking a tour always falls to chance. It is in the hands of my agent, and he fights for the best route possible. Sometimes going west to east, or east to west is not possible. It occasionally has to meander.
GS: How do you feel about the Canadian music landscape today in 2011?
RW: I feel very proud to be a part of it. As well, I am excited about the future. I believe I am on the next wave that will launch this country to the world with its art.
GS: Your songs & lyrics are deeply romantic. Where does that dreamy and sometimes melancholic emotion come from? Are you a hopeless romantic?
RW: The lyrics are truth. I only write from the heart. So yeah, I guess I am a hopeless romantic. I certainly love to make dinner for my wife, enjoy an exquisite glass of red wine, and light a few candles for the setting with old vinyl on in the background. It tends to lead to a memorable night.
You can catch Royal Wood on September 18th at the West End Cultural Centre.
