When singer/songwriter Drew Copeland met Ken Block while tailgating before a University of Florida football game in 1991, he had no idea it would lead to becoming a co-founder of one of the most successful bands in the Southeast. Today, Sister Hazel has fans across the country and around the world, and in 2004 Copeland released his first solo album.
What was it like going solo after so many years with the band?
"Doing the solo record was great because I had total creative freedom," says Copeland. He never had any intention of splitting from Sister Hazel and he adds that the band was completely supportive with Block and lead guitarist Ryan Newell playing on the CD.
"I really love my gig because I have a very defined role in Sister Hazel and yet we allow each other the freedom to express ourselves individually." Copeland sings both lead and harmony vocals and plays rhythm guitar with Sister Hazel and has written or co-written several of their songs.
His CD "No Regrets" features songs he has written or had a part in writing over the last several years, representing different periods in his life. The CD has been received enthusiastically by the Hazelnuts, the band's fans, and has been called thoughtful and reminiscent of other singer/songwriters of the 1970s and 1980s.
Copeland admits it’s a little nerve-wracking when he performs a new song before an audience. "But fun at the same time," he continues. "They dig it but really want to hear songs they know."
"(The songs) are each like your children. You love them so much and you want everyone to be nice to them."
What is Copeland's writing routine?
Copeland has recorded in some form or another about 60 songs out of the 100 he's written. He has written with a partner and alone. All he really needs is his acoustic guitar and his computer. He says what he starts with varies from song to song. Sometimes he has a specific thought he wants to express, while another time the melody will come first.
"Other times (I) could be driving down the road and the entire song comes to (me) at a red light," he says. "That's how 'Strange Cup of Tea' came to me."
When asked what elements go into a successful song, he replies adamantly, "There are no rules. That's the beauty of songwriting." He goes on to say that he doesn't like music that sounds forced and a good song must make sense both musically and lyrically.
In the StudioWhat lies ahead musically for Copeland?
Copeland grew up singing harmonies with his family so it is not surprising one of his goals for the future is to to make music as his living for a long time. He has been focusing on his writing a lot more lately. "I look forward to writing songs for other artists and maybe even producing some."
He'd like to record a second solo CD as soon as things slow down. Sister Hazel recorded "Before the Amplifiers," a live acoustic album, in January and Copeland and the rest of the band are now touring heavily this summer and into the fall. In addition, he has a family with three young children that keep him very busy.
Learn more about Drew Copeland and hear selections from "No Regrets" on his website. Sister Hazel (right) also has a website with tour information.
0 comments:
Post a Comment