I was so excited to learn your new single “I’d Be Lying” is the continuation of your previous release, “To Know I Hurt You”! Can you share a bit about the story behind this track and the songwriting process for it?
Drew: "To Know I Hurt You" is such a heavy and emotional track, and one that I felt would connect with a lot of people on a deep level and provide a lot of healing to those who look for that from music. At the same time, every story has two sides, and "I'd Be Lying" is a necessary follow-up perspective to heartbreak, and it feels so raw and human. It also felt like the song was perfect to get into some of the pop elements that drive my artistry.
Who are your biggest influences when it comes to your music?
Drew: I take in influences from all over. From growing up listening to my dad's cover band to being the frontman of my punk band in high school, I've had a lot of bands and songs shape me. The music that I make is definitely inspired by incredible songwriters like Ed Sheeran, Ryan Tedder, and Jon Bellion to name a few.
What do you think is the best thing about performing live?
Drew: I love playing a new song for the first time in front of an audience. Being able to see how the reactions to the songs not only helps with my songwriting but also with building my set to put on a super-strong live performance.
If you could collab with any artist out there, who would you pick and why?
Drew: I would love to work with Quinn XCII or Chelsea Cutler. Between their production, melodies, and lyrics, they always put out incredibly new music that I connect with and am inspired by.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not making music?
Drew: When I am not making music, I spend a lot of time with my wife, friends, and family. I love to explore all of the new food options and bars in Nashville, especially a good cocktail bar. Lately, I've enjoyed a bit of Call of Duty and I can't wait to spend some time rooting for the Cincinnati Bengals this upcoming football season.
If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would you tell them?
Drew: I would encourage myself to write with as many people as possible. I spent a lot of years mastering my individual songwriting skill and production craft which was necessary to take me to where I am now. But some of my favorite moments of my career are when I am sitting in a studio with a couple of other songwriters and we all feel the energy that a song can have when it just feels perfect like it is writing itself.
Interviewed By Sarah Curry
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