Life on a major record label was full of high highs and low lows for
Oklahoma City singer-songwriter Graham Colton. Forging his own path as
an independent artist the past few years has proven to be more his
speed.
To be honest, its equally liberating and terrifying. When you have a success, theres nothing like it. Its all because of you and your fans, and its so much more rewarding in that way, Colton said. But, the business changes daily. I literally have to think about how to make everything cost-effective and also how to maintain good quality to everything at the same time. Its never been better, but its never been more challenging.
For him, that means going to new places, rather than retreating to safe ones. Doing solid business with his first indie release, Pacific Coast Eyes, he ventured to Holland this fall for his first shows across the pond. More important, a loose writing session with Los Angeles songwriter Lindsey Ray turned into a brand-new offshoot, Sooner the Sunset.
We were hooked up to write with each other for no particular reason, Colton said. There was this thing that happened: It didnt sound like me, and it didnt sound like her it sounded like us. We decided it should be something new and something of its own.
Sooner the Sunsets EP came out last month, and while Colton has been playing many of its songs on his current solo acoustic tour, time will tell what more comes from the duo.
All the feedback has been nothing but positive, but jumping in the van together, well, thats something else entirely, he said. If something catches on fire, then absolutely, but well take it as we come.
If nothing else, its given him a taste for moving out of his comfort zone.
It makes me realize that no matter what song I want to write, as long as I do it honestly, with integrity, it doesnt matter what the genre is, he said. Im almost trying to make myself uncomfortable. At this point in my life, I dont hear songs that begin with the acoustic guitar. Its been fun, to hear these different flavors appearing. Im really connecting with the music. Its an interesting, weird feeling.
Colton isnt sure what to make of these new songs, but hes excited about the possibilities; it looks like this path hes forged is about to take a turn.
Im just opening myself to the process, he said. I just know that at this moment in time, I want to keep moving forward. I dont want to do anything Ive done before, and thats my main criteria. Ill keep moving, but it wont be the same sound youre used to.
Today and Fridays shows at The Blue Door mark the fifth year of Coltons Thanksgiving shows benefiting Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.
Hey! Read This:
Sooner the Sunset album review