Brian John Harwood has released a great new single called “Getaway” and we had to talk to him about it! We had the chance to connect with Brian to chat about this new song, and songwriting in general.
“Getaway” is the latest single from Canadian country artist Brian John Harwood. It was written in the early stages of quarantine with Dustin Bird. The song was created around the idea of making sure his special someone (in this case, it’s his significant other Laura) can live like they’re on vacation … even through cold and isolated times.
This song is part of Brian’s new body of work that he is eager to take to the stage as soon as he can.
It’s a great song, and we’re excited to introduce you all to it. Before we get to the interview, be sure to stream “Getaway” on Apple Music and Spotify.
Stream “Getaway” By Brian John Harwood
Interview With Brian John Harwood
Front Porch: This is the first time we’re talking in 2021 … Happy New Year Brian! The Holidays looked a little different for everyone this year. How did you spend your Holidays?
Brian John Harwood: Happy New Year to you as well! With everything going on in the world, it was definitely different. At the same time, it was kind of nice to be able to spend a lot of quality time with my better half and my dog.
New Years we ordered a pizza from our favourite place down the road, watched the movie “Over The Top” and were in bed early… not an overly crazy night, but it was perfect!
Front Porch: You’re starting the year off on a high note with the release of your new single “Getaway”. Tell us about this song. What was the inspiration behind the song?
Brian John Harwood: “Getaway” was written with Dustin Bird in the early stages of quarantine. Anyone who knows me, knows the beach and travelling are two of my favourite things.
I was stuck at home in isolation, and Laura was working full time at her job. When she came home one night after having a rough day, it inspired me that we can have our own little getaway right here at home. Even when things are feeling out of our control, it is possible to bring some light into our private worlds.
“Getaway” is meant to remind people to be positive and to always try to look on the bright side of things and create the magic you get from going to a tropical place right in your own living room. I wanted to be her getaway just for a brief moment so she could forget about the day and smile.
Front Porch: We heard through the grapevine that you’ve shot a music video for this one. Your music videos are known to be fun and full of energy … Can you give us any insight into this one? We’d love to get a sneak peak.
Brian John Harwood: Thank you so much! To me, music videos are a huge part of bringing the song to life, and I wanted this one to follow through the same way it sings.
From Laura leaving work, to coming home and having that feeling of getting away is what we wanted to capture. I think we did just that in a fun and exciting way and I can’t wait to show you! There may or may not have been piña coladas and strawberry daiquiris involved 😉
Front Porch: What’s the creative writing process like for you … how do you approach songwriting? How does a song come to life for you? Do you start with a hook, a lyric, or a title, etc?
Brian John Harwood: That’s a difficult question to answer actually.
I usually have a song idea, but then I try to zone in on a hook and chorus. I like my songs to be catchy and easy for people to sing along to. I’ve always been drawn to those types of songs, so I think that has embedded itself into my own writing style over the years.
An idea can spark from a title, a lyric, or even a simple conversation. My solo project really incorporates things that mean a lot to me and that are important in my life. I just really like to have fun with songwriting.
Front Porch: This global pandemic has changed the way songwriters collaborate. We’ve heard some songwriters say that they really miss being in a room with someone face to face to write. But others are saying they’ve enjoyed being able to connect with others across the country via zoom. Where do you sit on this spectrum? How have you found writing in this time?
Brian John Harwood: That’s a great question. There are pros and cons to both.
At first I wasn’t a fan of the whole idea of writing online and not in a room with someone. Only one person could play guitar because of timing delays and other obstacles, but the more I started to write using these media outlets, the more I started to see the positives.
I can now write with my friends down in Nashville, and not have to pay for a plane ticket and hotel room for a few nights. It has allowed me to connect with people I may not have had a chance to without going through this pandemic.
As much as I have been getting used to it and enjoying it, there is nothing that comes close to sitting in a room face to face for a songwriting session.
Front Porch: Speaking of songwriting, you’re fantastic at writing a song. You know how to build a story and hit the listener with emotion. What kind of advice would you have for people who are just starting to write songs?
Brian John Harwood: Be real.
It took me a long time to really find myself as a songwriter. The songs I’m writing now are so much more personal and important to me than they ever used to be. I think the more real you are as a songwriter, the more your listeners connect with you and therefore the more enjoyable they are.
Don’t try to be someone you’re not, and just keep writing. The more you write, the better they will get. Don’t be afraid to co-write and reach out to new people, because you can learn something new from each person you work with.
Front Porch: Congrats on the release of “Getaway”! What do you hope people will get from this release?
Brian John Harwood: Thank you! I hope people get a little positivity and good vibes from it.
I think it would be really cool if people can crank it in their house and sing along to it. If one person can listen to it and escape from real life for just those three minutes, then I’ve done my job.
Thanks so much Brian! As always, it’s a pleasure 🙂
In country music, the Front Porch has long been a place of reflection. A place where you can look at the life you have inside that front door. A place where time almost seems to stand still, where you can get away. It’s also a place where you can go to observe the world as it passes by you. To think about your place out there beyond the driveway.
