The ability to thrive in multiple music genres is a skill few can truly claim under their belt. But for singer/songwriter Jeff Tuohy, having that talent is just one of the many things that make him such an enticing artist.
Flexing that malleable-in-music muscle, Tuohy released his latest album Hudson Delta earlier this year, and the album serves as a collective space for alternative-rock jams and Americana-meets-country tracks — all of which you will want to play over and over!
Hudson Delta has quickly proven to be more than replay-worthy, as it reached as high as number six on the Apple Music Country Album chart.
In an exclusive interview with Celeb Secrets Country, Tuohy reflected on the album’s success in the country music space.
“[It’s] surreal because I never considered myself a country artist,” Tuohy said with a laugh. “I always figured I was filed under Americana. I’m blessed with an open-minded following. They’re responsible for Hudson Delta’s initial success. To see it surge on country charts is thrilling. Country fans are notoriously loyal and supportive. I can’t wait to play for them.”
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jeff Tuohy
Finding success both in alternative rock and in country music, Tuohy’s work really sports something for everybody to enjoy. He shared with us that his ability to thrive with flying colors in a variety of genres stems from his upbringing.
“Well, for one thing, I’m adopted,” Tuohy said. “Adoptees are known to be adaptable because it was necessary from day one. Second, music has always been a part of me. As a result, I devoured and internalized a large variety of the records. That coupled with theater acting made exploring different avenues of expression appealing. I’m at a stage where I’m willing to meld influences and inspiration despite industry naysayers. The most consistent feedback I get is listeners are glad songs on Hudson Delta aren’t the same thing over-and-over again, which reaffirms my faith that the right fans find you.”
Celeb Secrets Country sat down with Tuohy (virtually) to learn more about Hudson Delta, his inspiration as an artist and more. Check out the full interview below! Don’t forget to let us know what you think of Hudson Delta by leaving a reaction at the bottom of the post or by sending us a tweet @CS_Country.
Celeb Secrets Country: Congratulations on Hudson Delta! “The Devil’s In New Orleans,” “Old Roads,” and “All My Friends Are Getting Married (I’m Just Getting Stoned)” are all such fan-favorite hits. Walk us through the emotions of finally releasing the rest of this album.
Jeff Tuohy: “It’s cathartic. I’m proud of myself and grateful for the musicians I’ve come to know and love. Cocoon was released right before the dissolution of the indie label to which I was signed. The last decade was a commitment to my craft and career as a performer. Some weeks we’d play nine, three-hour shows in NYC until four o’clock in the morning. I didn’t give up on myself and wish that for anyone pursuing their purpose.”
CSC: The album reached number six on the Apple Music Country Album chart! How does it feel to see such a well-deserved positive response?
JT: “Surreal because I never considered myself a country artist. I always figured I was filed under Americana. I’m blessed with an open-minded following. They’re responsible for Hudson Delta’s initial success. To see it surge on country charts is thrilling. Country fans are notoriously loyal and supportive. I can’t wait to play for them.”
CSC: Out of the 11 tracks on the album, do you happen to have a favorite?
JT: “It changes weekly. This week’s are “Old Roads” and “Hear Me Out.””
CSC: You are able to thrive with flying colors in both country and alternative rock genres and this album really proves that. What do you credit to being so malleable in music?
JT: “Well, for one thing, I’m adopted. Adoptees are known to be adaptable because it was necessary from day one. Second, music has always been a part of me. As a result, I devoured and internalized a large variety of the records. That coupled with theater acting made exploring different avenues of expression appealing. I’m at a stage where I’m willing to meld influences and inspiration despite industry naysayers. The most consistent feedback I get is listeners are glad songs on Hudson Delta aren’t the same thing over-and-over again, which reaffirms my faith that the right fans find you.”
CSC: Are there any artists that have inspired you in either of those genres?
JT: “Country-wise, I’m a fan of Jason Isbell, Chris Stapleton, and Sturgill Simpson. Their music has depth sonically and topically, and transcends the genre. I also like Texas country, particularly Randy Rogers Band. ‘Alternative’ became affiliated with a lot of 90s music, but my definition of alternative is “can’t be neatly boxed.” I was exposed to Tom Waits after someone said my song “Bourbon Street” sounds like him. If you want to talk about a malleable artist, it doesn’t get more real than him.”
CSC: What advice do you have for emerging artists who may feel confined to the narrow margins of one genre?
JT: “Read “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield and “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron. If you’re comfortable in one style where you live artistically, great. If you feel the urge to venture into unknown territory, DO IT because the ultimate expression of your unique voice could be beyond the horizon. Look at how many artistic periods Picasso had and what happened when Queen released A Night At The Opera. Most performers feel confined to a narrow margin based on what they think people want, or what will get or keep them signed. If that’s the basis of your art you’re in for a miserable, hollow ride. Being famous does not make you a fulfilled artist.”
CSC: With the release of such incredible music we have also gotten some incredible music videos! Can we anticipate more to accompany these songs?
JT: “We just cut an original Christmas song that’ll be released with a cartoon video in November. It’s another collaboration with Marcus Guio and the team that animated “The Devil’s In New Orleans.” As for the rest of the songs on Hudson Delta, the ideas are there. It’s just a matter of partnering with the right executive producers to bring them to fruition.”
CSC: And since we are Celeb Secrets, is there any behind-the-scenes secret from creating this album that fans wouldn’t know just from listening?
JT: “While five of the songs were partially recorded earlier, the ultimate push to complete Hudson Delta began in August 2019 as my wife finished chemotherapy. I needed something to combat the most challenging time of my life and found it. Necessity breeds productivity.”
