TJ Viola On the Making Of “Running”
Photo Credit: Jude Morris
What was the creative process like for this particular song?
This song took about 6 months to fully complete, and it involved a ton of recording at home, and at various music conservatories in New York City. My goal was to make a 'jazz-pop' song similar to the style of the band, Dirty Loops; something that would just melt someone's ears off, musically. I knew way ahead of time that I also wanted all the instruments to be real, so I made the artistic decision to record strictly analog and acoustic instruments.
As far as the lyrics go, they stemmed from the fact that I had been talking to this girl in my music theory class who ended up being the inspiration for the song. Liking this person at the time was an understatement, as this was the type of girl you’d only find in novels. Inordinately kind eyes with a very soft, pretty smile; the way she carried herself in high regard, yet still could be relatable and honest; a radiant aura that was addicting if you found yourself engulfed in it. The more I spoke to this person in particular, the more I would leave our conversations constantly thinking about her; while also wondering if she did the same for me.
This was the moment that birthed the line, “I just want to know if I’m running through your mind, like the way you run through mine, makes me feel so good inside.” I was essentially trying to convey that if we feel the same way about each other, then let’s skip the bs and follow our hearts before we regret it.
What did you enjoy most about making "Running?"
There were so many fun parts to the creative process, however I think the most fulfilling thing about writing the song was how naturally the lyrics just flowed out of me. Usually, lyrics are the last thing to come to mind in the writing process, but this time it came first and the final draft happened rather quickly. The whole concept was just such a genuine, clear feeling for me, and the only reason why I was able to write it so easily was because I could clearly communicate exactly how I felt about the person that I wrote the song about.
How do you feel this song represents your artistic identity?
I am the type of artist that puts music first over everything else, which I honestly feel like is starting to become a rare commodity in the music world. I am trained in both worlds of classical and jazz, and often use my influences from those two genres, as well as the influence I take from my favorite bands/artists (such as Toto, Charlie Puth, Dirty Loops, and Michael Jackson), to inspire my own creations and vibes. “Running” is the perfect display of my musicianship and dedication to my craft.
How do you continuously grow and evolve as an artist?
As a musician/player/whatever you want to call it, it is my responsibility to always be honing in my craft. I practice and maintain my skill set constantly to make sure I am always on my a-game for every gig. I try to draw new inspirations all the time just by listening to and discovering new music, expanding my ear and what I like to call my ‘musical diet’ because what I consume as a listener is very vital to my consistency as a musician. I also try to learn something new about navigating the business every day, whether it’s learning how to negotiate better or hiring someone new on my team to help me with my endeavors.
Are there any specific venues or festivals that you dream of performing at?
Definitely would love to cross off the Montreux, Blue Note, and Newport Jazz Festivals off my list one day; All Things Go is another festival I would also love to play. But honestly, I’m so new to the festival game that I would love to play anywhere as long as my team and I are getting paid right by the organizers.
I am hoping to land some festival slots in South Jersey and Upstate New York this summer, so for anyone reading: follow my Instagram if you want to hear more updates about my upcoming gigs! @tjviolaofficial.