Born and raised in New Jerusalem, PA, country newcomer Tyler Short grew up with music running through his veins. Encouraged to sing in church by his mother, Tyler’s love of music led to songwriting, and through his songs Tyler hopes to bring his fans the support they may need to get through whatever hills they have to climb.
We recently caught up with Tyler to talk about his musical journey, his latest single “This Is Me” and more.
CN: For our readers who may not be familiar with you, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
TS: I mean I’m a pretty plain guy. Most of my time is spent invested in my music. Sometimes when I have free days I’ll try and get into a rodeo and ride some bulls here and there. And I don’t like pickles, none of them.
CN: Which artists have influenced you both personally and as an artist?
TS: There are so many but a few artists are Brad Paisley, Brooks & Dunn, Toby Keith, Randy Travis. It’s honestly hard to nail down just a select few when so many have had some level of impact musically or personally.
CN: You were only 19 when you began songwriting. What led you to begin writing?
TS: I actually switched from playing piano to guitar in my teens. Was even a bass player for some time in the middle of all of it. But, I think the enjoyment of singing led to me wanting to write and sing songs of my own.
CN: Do you remember the first song you wrote?
TS: Oh wow, I can’t say I remember the first one I ever wrote. Though I do remember the first one I ever completed. I’m not sure if I ever even titled it.
CN: Can you take us through your songwriting process? Where do you pull your ideas from?
TS: Most of my writing starts with me and my acoustic, more often than not. As for the ideas for songs, that’s a whole different animal. Most of it is personal experience or viewpoints. Sometimes a good idea just pops of out nowhere in the abyss of nonsense running through my mind.
CN: What is your all-time favorite song – not your own – based on the songwriting alone?
TS: Based on songwriting alone… Sheesh. I’m not quite sure I’ve listened to near enough music to pick a favorite based on songwriting alone. I think “Desperado” by the Eagles would have to be high up there, so let’s just go with that for now.
CN: Did you find yourself writing more during the pandemic?
TS: I can say I definitely wrote more then due to just having more time available.
CN: You recently released your latest single “This Is Me.” A very vulnerable title. What was the inspiration behind this song?
TS: A crazy ex and a breakup (I’m kidding about the crazy). But yes, a breakup and being told to wear clothes I didn’t want to wear.
CN: Are there plans for a music video?
TS: There is actually a live session music video available on YouTube with my touring band! Feel free to check that out and maybe we can get an official video one of these days!
CN: Have you been able to get back out on the road?
TS: Yes! It’s so great to be back out playing live music.
CN: If you could collaborate with any one artist, who would it be?
TS: Cody Johnson for sure. Not only is he a singing fool but a hell of a bull rider. May even learn a few things on how to get more qualified rides.
CN: What was the first concert you ever attended?
TS: Oh man, taking me back! My first concert in an arena was Chicago and the Doobie Brothers. My aunt and uncle took me with them and it was one heck of a show. Ill never forget the light show Chicago put on and singing along to “Listen To The Music” like never before!
CN: If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?
TS: Animated. I’m full of energy and life. I’ve been building character since I was born and I let it show.
CN: What’s next on the horizon for you?
TS: Making it to the end of the week without having a heart attack the way I eat, haha. To be honest, right now it’s just focusing on releasing the EP and getting out and playing. I try to not reach too far ahead and enjoy where I am now.
For more information on Tyler Short, visit his website www.tylershortmusic.com and follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.