A QUICK CHAT WITH DAN KEYES + THE NEW RIDES

Can you tell me a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘London’?

London was the first song we wrote for the project. So, in many ways, it was London that inspired or catalyzed the entire project itself. It holds a very special place in our hearts and minds. 

What are your influences and how do they affect your songwriting? 

I’ve been songwriting since I could speak and write. I used to watch my grandfather play guitar and sing country songs that he wrote on the back porch of his house in San Antono, Texas. He gave me that guitar when he was too old to play it and that’s when I started writing songs. 

What’s the creative process like for you?

There’s no real ‘process’. When it comes it comes and when it don’t, it don’t. You can’t force creativity. 

If you could change something about the Australian music industry what would it be? 

I’d like country music to become the mainstream. What could be more country than the outback? 

What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet? 

I hate to think… 

Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with?  Why?

There is so much upcoming Australian country talent at the moment that I’m keen to collaborate with. Kacey Musgraves said ‘London’ was beautiful so I think it would be great to do something beautiful with her. 

What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry? 

 Find your niche. Exploit it. 

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met? 

e’ll I’ve worked everyone from Jay Z to Kelly Clarkson, from Ricky Martin to Mark Ronson, but I’d have to say the most interesting individual that I’ve worked with is my best friend and collaborator on this project - Tim Metcalfe. 

Any plans for a tour on the cards?

 We’re going to release some more music early next year and then start looking at some live shows.