Interview: Gene Champagne Chats About His Upcoming Single, "I Can't Pretend", Out January 23rd

What inspired the creation of this single?

This is a song that I have loved for a very long time and I have always thought of recording it. It fits really well with the new material I am currently writing. The vibe of the song is perfect and it seemed like a great opportunity to give the song some attention and put a bit of my style into it.  

What story or message does the song convey?

Although I didn't write this song originally released by The Barracudas it's a song about finally letting go of a toxic situation or relationship that you can't seem to no longer help with.  

Can you tell us about the creative process?

Because this is a cover song my goal was to keep the integrity and spirit of the song yet lend a little bit of my style. I wanted this song to blend well with what original music I have been writing and recording and I think it turned out just the way I intended. 

 How does this song differ from your previous releases?

I think this song is very much in my orbit. I am am huge fan of early punk, rock n roll, powerpop, garage and surf and I think my style is where all of these converge and I blend them and seem to create my own thing. But for this particular song I think it leans a bit more into the surf aspect which drew me to the song in the first place. 

What challenges did you face while writing or recording?

This song came together very easily. As I tried to keep the vibe and integrity of the song it made it easy to try to recapture. I knew what I wanted to add and I am happy with it. It came out as I intended. 

Did you experiment with any new instruments, techniques, or styles?

As I leaned into the surf aspect of this song I dug more into reverbs and some organ and cleaner guitar sounds which weren't on any previous releases so it was fun to hear that all come together and experiment with. 

Is there a personal connection or story tied to the lyrics?

I think we have all some kind of connection to this song. A situation or relationship where you just need to say goodbye to and let go for your own sake and well being. 

Have you performed it live yet, and what was the audience’s reaction?

I haven't performed it live yet but I am excited to fit it into our set. Teenage Head another band I  am in and drum for actually also covered the song way back in 1986 on their Trouble In The Jungle Album so I think those fans will get a kick out of hearing it. 

Is this single part of a larger project, like an album or EP?

I have lots of new music coming this year so this song will very much be a part of an album to come out this year as well and I look forward to releasing all of it. 

Anything Else You'd Like Your Fans to Know.

This song is currently released by Rumbar Records (USA)  digitally and available as of January 23rd on all digital platforms. I have lots of new music and releases to share this year along with shows. You can catch me opening for The Boys (UK) on their Canadian tour

Fri March 13th       - Toronto,Ontario- The Horseshoe Tavern

Sat March 14th -     -Hamilton,Ontario -The Corktown

Sun Marchg 15th    - London,Ontarioo - Palasad Social Bowl

More shows to come.