Stereoboard Talk To Daniel Powter Ahead Of The Release Of Comeback Album 'Turn On The Lights'
Tuesday, 26 June 2012
Written by Heather McDaid
Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Daniel Powter has announced his return to the international music scene with his brand new album ‘Turn On The Lights’ on 16th July. Kicking off with lead single ‘Cupid’, also release on 16th July, it’s obvious that Canadian born Powter is an artist reenergized. Check out what Daniel had to say when Stereoboard caught up with him earlier this week.
How has 2012 been for you so far?
It's been amazing. I had another daughter in February, made a new album, signed with a new label, and recommitted myself to going back out on the road.
How did you approach the recording of 'Turn On The Lights'?
I spent a lot of time writing for the new record. I really took my time and for every song that made it to the album, I probably omitted 5-10. I wrote very basic and simple songs... I'm not much for the introspective singer songwriter vibe. I prefer to write songs that everyone can relate to.
It's been four years since your last record, which nowadays seems a particularly large gap. Why do you choose to leave so long between releases?
Wow... Good question. I guess I don't really know. It might have something to do with the fact that I stopped enjoying the lifestyle. The problem with the spotlight is that you never really know if you're going to like it until you're in it. It just wasn't for me. In the 5 years I've been gone I'd like to think I've grown up a bit. Besides you can only do so much surfing.
Going into the recording process, was there a particular sound or narrative you wanted to achieve with this record?
Yeah I think so. With everything that's going on in the world today. Wars, economic crisis, people losing their jobs, losing their homes. I wanted to strip down all the BS! Write about hope, coming home, love... The days of decadence are gone. No body wants to listen to me bitch about how y'all don't understand me. Gimmie a f***ing break!
Do you think you achieved that/did it change over the recording process?
If you mean I managed not to put too much of myself into the album then yes.
Would you say 'Cupid' is a good indication of what to expect from the rest of the album?
No not really... Because I wrote for such a long time the sounds and content are all over the map. The album is all over the place. But that's how I like it.
Musically, how would you say the record sounds?
I think this is pretty poppy for me. At first I was a bit scared it would be too homogenized but it turned out great for me. I had such a blast making this record with Howard Benson. We didn't have much time to do it because radio was jumping on Cupid so fast. However , that was. Food thing. It forces you to move quickly and not second guess yourself in the studio.
Lyrically, what do you deal with on the album?
Just everyday life.... Pain, hostility, love, resentment, sex, remorse, arrogance, longing, hope, humility, and prejudice. Everyday life.
At present, how would you sum up the overall product?
I can't really sum it up. It's just one big long conversation.
How would you compare this record to your previous work?
It's definitely more grown up. I was pretty naive during the first album. I didn't know what to say or do. I've learned about boundaries and that there are consequences to your actions. Most thing I say don't need to be said, and they really don't need to be said by me.
As a musician, what are your views on downloading?
Awww I don't really care about downloading. I'm totally powerless over that stuff. I can only hope that people still want to see the show.
Over your years in music, what have been your proudest achievements?
You know I'm the proudest of the little stuff. I mean Live 8 and and playing for the MTV's was great but taking my daughters class into the studio so they could record. Or getting to play "live" with my band will always be at the top for me.
Is there anything else you'd still like to achieve in particular?
Devine enlightenment
What should fans expect from you for the rest of 2012?
That I will put on one of the best shows they've ever seen. I'm that committed.
Anything else you'd like to add, a message for fans?
I guess I'd just like to say.... I'm really back.... And I'm really happy. Peace.
‘Turn On The Lights’ is released by International Solutions/Avex Management Inc./EMI on 16th July.
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How has 2012 been for you so far? 
