Ty Wood On the Making Of “Livin' It Up”
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind "Livin' It Up" and the story it tells?
While I was driving across the country as part of the Write Across America project I began writing songs influenced by the places I traveled through. From the slot canyons of Utah to the swamps of the Natchez Trace trail, or sitting in the parking lot of Muscle Shoals Studios or on Broadway in Nashville. Creating new material from scratch or reinventing ideas from songs I’d written in the past. “Livin’ it up” was written and reimagined while travelling through Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. I was inspired by the idea that life should be fun and enjoyed. Life is often filled with way too much drama and it’s easy to forget that we need to take time out and just enjoy life with family and friends.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for this song?
I walked into the studio in Nashville to record the original demo of the song and while talking to the studio owner about the idea behind the song I said I wanted a harmonica on the track. Just then a young harmonica player walked into the studio with a case of harmonicas and just jammed with me on acoustic guitar and harmonica. It was so cool and she just shredded. That demo became the track that the producer from Luminara Records heard and it led to at least a 2 album project.
How do you feel "Livin' It Up" represents your artistic identity?
Life is meant to be experienced and enjoyed. “Livin' It Up” represents the joy and sharing life and good times together. With a high energy and driving beat “Livin’ It Up” represents Ty Wood and the Write Across America project on every level.
What do you enjoy most about performing live and connecting with your audience?
I love the feeling of connecting with an audience big or small. I especially love it when an audience finds their own interpretation and emotion in one of my songs. it gives a song so much more life than I could ever give it alone.
What is the best part of being a musician?
Telling stories and the feel of connection I get when creating unique moments of music and emotions. As part of the Write Across America project I often get to play for small audiences sitting around campfires or beaches and create moments and memories that go beyond just singing a song. I love incorporating ideas or lyrics into my songs based on the conversations or experiences I have with people from all walks of life. It allows me a unique opportunity to share moments with people I would normally never have the opportunity to connect with.