Feature: Joey Collins Decodes “Is This What We're Living For?”
What was the creative process like for this particular song?
I started as I usually do, which is with recording the guitar in my home studio that helps to build the foundation of the song and then usually add the vocals. Then the fun really begins where I get to experiment with electronic elements such as synths and soundscape textures, which can sometimes be more subtle in the mix but really start adding emotional layers to the track. My two bandmates recorded their parts respectively: Adonis Alvanos on drums and Nick Belfitt on bass. It's great to have their efforts on the song as they are incredible on their instruments. I'm always trying to serve the song in the best way possible. I have to also give Jack Fawdry a shoutout, who did some additional production and mixed/mastered the tune.
How did you approach the arrangement and composition of the music for "Is This What We're Living For?"
The structure is quite conventional in regard to what you'd expect to hear in an alternative rock song. Intro/Verse/Chorus/Verse 2/Chorus 2 (which is doubled up in length) and then the bridge / outro. I start and end the song with the same lyrics 'Is This What We're Living For?' to (hopefully) reinforce the listener to question their own existence and feelings within their life. The bridge/outro transitions into a major key which is to represent the lyrical narrative of overcoming struggle despite adversity. I really wanted to convey the optimism and strength you can find in oneself, even if the first section is dark and has a sense of hopelessness.
Have you noticed any particular interpretations or connections that listeners have made with this song?
I have had a lot of positive feedback on the song from fans, which is always heart warming to hear. In regard to their interpretations, I have no idea. The song took about 9 months to get finished and with it being the title track to my upcoming second album, I needed it to make a statement. It's probably my favourite song I've released so far, which I feel I say with every release haha.
How did you get started in music, and what inspired you to become a singer-songwriter?
I always found comfort in music from as early as I remember, it's just the best art form in my opinion. My favourite band growing up was The Red Hot Chili Peppers and I recall watching their 'Live at Slane Castle' DVD and watching it on repeat thinking, that's literally the coolest thing I've ever seen/heard and wanted to pursue being a musician from then on. I started as a guitarist, painfully shy on stage as a kid at school concerts then grew more confident over time with being in bands. That's where I started singing (badly), stuck with it and started my solo project in 2015 and have stuck with it ever since. I feel like I've dedicated my life to music, so there's no question of stopping now.
How do you balance incorporating new trends while maintaining a unique and timeless production style?
It's not something I've really thought about in all honestly. I write how I feel in the moment, the majority of my music tends to be introspective and honest. It's a way of making sense of life. Life is bloody tough. Finding music as an outlet to help me make sense of the chaos and beauty in the world is the biggest blessing I've found. Without it, I'd be lost.
