Andrew Ripp is a seasoned singer/songwriter who has hit his respective stride with what he says is an artistry that, “Was no longer about people accepting me, it became more about what I can offer others – to speak life into the world and offer hope through my music.” Today marks the release of his third studio album. Entitled, “Won’t Let You Go” and it is available on iTunes, Amazon and all digital retail providers today. He says the album is characterized by, “My process of letting go of control and letting others help me.”
I recently caught up with the talented and expressive musician to chat about how his music and his soul have evolved, the inspiration behind the new album and his plans for the rest of the year. He graciously opened up about the deeper parts of his life and his artistry.
Marian: Since your debut album in 2008 and then after your follow up album went to #1 on iTunes’ Singers/Songwriters charts in 2010, how has your artistry evolved to get to this point with the new album release?
Andrew: Over the years I have completely dedicated my life to learning the craft of songwriting – knowing which rabbit hole is worth going down, so to speak, while writing. On a personal level I was becoming more clear about who I am, what I have to say, and what I am all about. Taking the time to learn and develop into the artist I want to be and I think I am still learning and developing but Won’t Let Go is definitely an album that embodies everything I wanted it to from a musical standpoint.
Marian: You have a wide range of songwriting experience and credibility that spans years in the music industry. When you look back what do you feel is a moment that defined you, as an artist?
Andrew: I am not sure there is a specific moment that defined me as an artist. But about 5 years ago I just hit a point where I felt I needed to man up in a sense and define my own success. It was no longer about people accepting me, it became more about what I can offer others – to speak life into the world and offer hope through my music. We all go through hard times but the most important thing to realize is that without pain there wouldn’t be joy.
Marian: Likewise, what do you hope your artistry is defined by going forward?
Andrew: I want my music to offer hope to listeners – sometimes in the midst of pain and difficult times you can lose sight of the silver lining – but music can be that silver lining and I want listeners to feel that way when they listen to my music. No matter how good or bad things are, if you can find the strength to latch on to hope it won’t be like that forever.
Marian: I understand you wrote or co-wrote every track on the album and it seems to be one characterized by love, challenges and relationships. Tell me about some of the motivation and inspiration behind your latest release, “Won’t Let Go”.
Andrew: “Won’t Let Go” was the first song written for the record and it speaks to my process of letting go of control and letting others help me. I think that is a common theme on the album, accepting that I have people around me who can help me and allowing them to do so. As I wrote this record, I was writing these songs for me as a way to help me process some of the things I was going through but as the songs came to life, I realized that these stories were for everyone because we all go through hard times and sometimes just knowing you’re not the only one can offer a moment of hope.
Marian: “Won’t Let Go” has been characterized as a deeply personal album. What has it been like to translate these songs to live performance while touring with Andy Grammer this spring?
Andrew: It’s been a bit challenging taking full band songs and turning them into acoustic delivery but I think it’s helped me grow as a performer and the response has been amazing, especially getting to perform new songs from “Won’t Let Go”. Andy’s fans are extremely welcoming and it’s been incredible to be out on the road with him and Parachute – I am learning a lot!
Marian: What is a song or songs that you particularly enjoy performing (covers or your own)?
Andrew: I love playing Hank Williams’, “Love Sick Blues.” This song spoke to me a long time ago during a break up and I have loved it ever since – plus it has a yodel in it so it’s a lot of fun to perform live. I also love performing the song “Rescue Me,” which actually features Vince Gill on the album. It’s a prayer in a sense and the song means a lot to me personally so watching fans react to it live has been amazing.
Marian: Any plans for a headlining tour after you wrap up your tour with Andy?
Andrew: I love being out on the road and performing. I am not really sure what the rest of the year will bring but stay tuned to find out!
Marian: What is a guilty pleasure you take with you or look for while on the road?
Andrew: Golf – I suck. But, I love to golf 🙂
Marian: If an album is comparable to an expression or statement, what would you summarize that “Won’t Let Go” says about you?
Andrew: That I am honest. I speak to the hope that I have because I have been through hard times like everyone else. I am not afraid to admit that I don’t have it figured out – it’s ok to just do your best – and I hope my best is making great music that people will enjoy.
Purchase your copy of “Won’t Let Go” Now On iTunes or Amazon
Source Article from http://www.examiner.com/article/andrew-ripp-releases-won-t-let-go-today-on-the-road-with-andy-grammar?cid=rss
Views: 0