A Unique Journey in Country Music
Kip Moore's career took an unexpected turn after his 2012 hit "Somethin' 'Bout a Truck" topped the Billboard country charts. The song, along with its follow-up tracks "Beer Money" and "Hey Pretty Girl," seemed to set him on a clear path toward a bro-country success. However, Moore's story didn't unfold as expected. Instead of sticking to the typical trends, he chose a different route that would redefine his music.
In 2015, Moore released his album "Wild Ones," which marked a shift in his style. This project blended rock and roll elements with traditional country sounds, drawing inspiration from artists like Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp. Moore explained that while he grew up listening to country music, he was also deeply influenced by rock and roll. He admired the lyrical craftsmanship of country music and the powerful melodies of rock, which shaped his artistic identity.
"I wanted to write substantial songs," Moore said. "I love the rock and roll melodies, but I also have to do it my way. I didn’t want to just recreate another 'Somethin' 'Bout a Truck.' I wanted to do what I wanted to do."
This philosophy is evident in his latest album, "Solitary Tracks," released in February. The album is considered Moore’s most profound work yet. It features songs from the perspective of an outsider striving to achieve his goals. While the hooks may not be as prominent as in his earlier work, the depth of the lyrics and the emotional resonance make it a compelling listen.
"The words are important to me," Moore emphasized. "I have something to say with each of these songs." This sentiment reflects his commitment to authenticity and storytelling through music.
A New Direction in Music
"Solitary Tracks" is an expansive two-album set featuring 23 songs and spanning 85 minutes. In an era dominated by short EPs, this album stands out for its length and depth. Songs like "Half Full Cup," "Learning As I Go," and "Flowers in December" showcase Moore's growth as an artist. Rather than focusing on creating a single hit, he prioritized crafting a complete album that resonates with him personally.
Moore's approach to music is rooted in his childhood experiences. He recalled being captivated by albums like Tom Petty's "Full Moon Fever," where he would listen to the entire record from start to finish. This deep connection to full-length albums inspired his current creative direction.
"I remember discovering Tom Petty's 'Full Moon Fever,' and I just sat there and was absolutely enthralled by that album," Moore shared. "That's what I grew up on, and that's probably why I'm still driven to make albums like what I grew up listening to."
Moore is currently preparing for a live performance at McGrath Amphitheatre on Saturday, August 16. His show is known for its authenticity, with no backing tracks or digital enhancements. The performance is a raw and genuine experience, featuring Moore and his band delivering a high-energy, organic set.
"I've always loved playing out, and that hasn't changed," Moore said. "We strive to give fans the best show and the most authentic depiction of us as musicians. We rehearse hard, and we feel out the audience so we might change the set. I often write a set list, and it just becomes something completely different."
A Passion for Creation
Moore's dedication to his craft is evident in his prolific writing habits. He has already begun working on his next album, having written over 100 songs for "Solitary Tracks." For Moore, writing is more than a job—it's a fundamental part of who he is.
"Writing is what I do," he said. "It's not a job. Writing is my life. I'll never stop writing, and I'll never stop making records. I'm so passionate about it."
This passion extends to his live performances, where he focuses on connecting with the audience. Whether it's through a well-rehearsed set or spontaneous moments, Moore aims to create an unforgettable experience for his fans.
As Moore continues to evolve as an artist, his journey serves as a reminder of the power of authenticity and creativity in music. With each new album and performance, he reaffirms his commitment to telling stories that resonate on a deeper level.
