They say time flies when you’re having fun, and apparently, it accelerates even faster when you’re chasing tone, lifting weights, and hitting the stage. On April 20th, I officially hit the 60-year milestone.
Reflecting on six decades, I realize how fortunate I am to still be doing exactly what I love—running Granger Amplification, coaching others to reach their fitness goals, and most importantly, creating music. Age is just a number, but it’s a great excuse to look back at the journey from my early days in Pyrate and Scream Sophie to the incredible experiences I’m having now with The Wildflowers, and so many bucket list items being checked off!
Solo Album Progress: The Work Continues
While the tribute shows keep the calendar (mostly) full, my heart has been in the studio lately working on my upcoming solo album. I’ve written and recorded over seven songs now, with at least six more in the writing and recording stages, and the momentum is building. Writing for yourself is a completely different animal than performing the classics—it’s personal, raw, and incredibly rewarding. Most of all, it’s fun!
Here is a quick update on a few of the tracks currently on the console:
- “Hide” – This one has been evolving in the studio, focusing on some deep textures, with layers of guitars and keyboards floating atop a massive low end rhythm. My friend Jenni Mote, from Birmingham’s own M-80’s, appears as guest vocalist, and recorded a stellar lead vocal track. I lovingly refer to this song as my “James Bond theme.” It definitely has that vibe.
- “Drive or Fly” – A track that captures the restless energy and mystique of the road. It has a trance-like groove that I think many of you who travel for your craft will really connect with. My Thomas Dolby influence really shines in this track.
- “Fade From You” – My newest addition to the track list. It’s fresh off the notepad and into the DAW, bringing a “back to my roots” rock and roll, high-energy feel to the growing collection of songs. My longtime friend and performing mate, Tracey Tucker, is going to guest vocal, and we hope to record his tracks later in May when I hit the white beaches of Alabama for some R&R before heavy touring picks back up this summer.
What’s Next?
Between dialing in the final vocal takes (thanks to some recent vowel modification training!) and prepping for a busy summer of shows—including our upcoming Fourth of July bash in Hohenwald and the Daytona Beach Bandshell in August—the creative fire is burning brighter than ever.
Turning 60 isn’t about slowing down; it’s about having the experience to make the next chapter the best one yet. Thanks for being part of the ride. Stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes looks at the recording process!
Exclusive Content for Subscribers
If you really want to deep dive into my creative process, get sneak peeks and listens to tracks, while also supporting my vision and journey, join me as a subscriber on Facebook! It’s their version of Patreon, but only cheaper, and more accessible – right from your mobile device, the same way you get all your Facebook now. My exclusive behind-the-scenes video and audio appear as regular posts and reels, except only subscribers have access to them. As I mentioned in my last post, all subscribers will be listed on the new album, and have early access to the album before the official release date! Here’s the link – https://www.facebook.com/curtgranger/subscribe/
Keep it loud,
Curt