NHW SONGWRITER'S TOUR
JOE WEST - INTERVIEW
How do you think you've grown since your first album with the NHW Songwriters Tour?
James and J.P. are more than band-mates, they are my dearest friends, and creating music with them has really taught me how to write what is real. I believe music is a gift from God and these songs come from our own experiences in life. The actual crafting of a song has improved for a number of reasons but one being I have been fortunate enough to be in the company of great writers who have encouraged me and guided me.
With a name like No Hit Wonders, do you ever worry that you may jinx your luck and end up with no hits?
So much has happened already that it is clear to me that this is a special situation. And we have seen to many people who have been impacted by the music.
How would you describe your style of music for those who haven't heard you yet?
I am a cross between Merle Haggard, James Taylor and a little Stevie Wonder.
At what age did you begin singing?
I would say about four or five in church like so many.
How and when did your first break in the music industry come about?
I was a contestant on the Charlie Daniels Talent Show and was a finalist. The exposure got me a lot of attention and a lot of work and a great endorsement from Charlie himself. Some time after I moved to Nashville I won the Gibson songwriting contest and eventually started writing for Redbird Music. I did that for about 3 years, and of course the latest gift is The No Hit Wonders. It has completely changed my life.
What is next for you and the NHW Songwriter's Tour?
We just released our third CD that we are excited about and of course we will be touring to promote the music. One of our primary goals is to really impact the lives of people with music and our own stories and experiences. We have been blessed so much we really want to share what has been given to us.
Do you have a favorite song on the "Courageous" CD? If so, what is it and why is it your favorite song?
I think JP's "Catch Me When I Fall," because I can really relate to the message of that song. I had heart failure back in June of last year and have had two heart surgeries and two spine surgeries in that period of time and that song really communicates how God intervened in my life.
What kind of songs do you look for (or write) when you go to record albums?
It depends. I like so many different types of music and it is always bouncing around inside my head. I love traditional country, new country, folk type music ( James Taylor, David Wilcox) and Celtic music has been my latest find. But most of my writing comes from personal experience.
Where do you find the ideas and inspirations when writing songs?
Life...
Who are some of the other artists & songwriters you have written with or for?
I have been able to spend time with Jon Robbin (Breath in Breath Out) There is a fellow by the name of Brian Lee Bennett who had a number one on the Christian radio charts with a song called "Say a Prayer." He is one of my regulars. And of course I get the privilege of hanging with James and J.P.
Can you tell us about your favorite song that you've written overall? What does it mean to you? Why did you write it?
It changes all the time but right now there is a song called "The Beating of My Heart" that talks about my life the last several months.
One of our favorite songs of yours "Where I Belong." How did this song come about?
I was just away from my family a lot and wanted to communicate for them and myself where my heart really was. It came pretty naturally.
Do you play any instruments? If so, what and do you have a favorite instrument to play (if you play more than one)?
Guitar, but my voice is my favorite instrument.
What goals do you feel you have accomplished with your career and what do you still hope to accomplish?
I have definitely gotten better at communicating what I want to say through the songs and again want very much to change people's lives with the gift.
What motivates you to keep striving in the music business?
I love music
Who has been the greatest influence in your life? (music related or not)
God, my wife and kids and my parents.
If you could collaborate with anyone musically, who would it be and why?
James Taylor. He is one of the greatest songwriters of all time.
What do you like about touring and what do you dislike?
I love the shows and interacting with the people. I don't like being away from my family.
Do you have a favorite song to perform live?
"The Real Deal"
How do you balance your music career with your family and friends when you're on the road touring?
My wife makes me.
What is the most difficult aspect of the music industry in your opinion?
For me watching other people who are so gifted and talented not appreciate or understand what they have. It is such an honor to create and perform.
What advice would you give to those who plan to get into the music business?
Love the music
Is there anything you would like to say to all your fans and all our readers?
Wow. It is hard to find words to answer that. Thank you for your belief and support. You are the reason we do what we do. I hope that we can give to you in ways that you deserve to be given too. And honestly, words can't express how I feel about our fans and supporters.
Songwriter's Spotlight: NHW Songwriter's Tour
