UPstar. Music has been a blessing to help me share stories and individuals who are hitting their peak and are moments away from breaking onto the scene in a big way. But it also showcases those who are just getting going and are diamonds in the rough. Colin Hawk is a name that might not be at the top of your list for up and coming artists at the moment, but it is a name that could be there in the next few years. The definition of diamond in the rough, Colin is already turning heads with his debut single "Home" and latest single "Take Back Time". I talked with Colin about the new single, his dream concert line-up and how opening for a friend helped spark a passion for him to pursue music.
Get To Know Colin
"I'm from Indianapolis, Indiana. I grew up here playing sports. I played baseball my whole life and went on to college and played baseball. I settled back in Indy once I graduated and started working. I had my own business start-up with a buddy of mine; working on a software application. We worked at that for about 3-4 years but it never really got off the ground. I did a couple odd jobs and I'm currently working for an IT service company. I'm in sales and working throughout the week and at nights, when people need me. Getting into music, I've always played guitar - it's been like 10 years - but I didn't truly start singing until college. Basically, through quarantine people had more time to discover things they really loved. For me, that was music. COVID was a blessing which allowed me to spend more time with music. One night, me and my wife had a little too much to drink and my wife took a video of me singing. She really pushed me to post that video on Instagram. I wasn't so sure, but finally got enough courage to do it. Fortunately it got a good reaction from people, which was nice. Matt (Gatewood) and Sam (Johnson) have been a big help introducing me to people. Very grateful for Nashville and the people I've met so far. Everyone has been very friendly and helpful."
Finding His Tune
From pursuing a baseball career to finding his niche in music, Colin Hawk is headed down the right path. He has a soothing and appealing voice that draws your attention as a listener. Colin uses his influences in soul and R&B to bring the words he's singing to life. With two singles out, Colin is quickly establishing his name in Country Music. He’s put out consistent work filled with authentic songwriting, catchy melodies and a vibe everyone can get behind. "Take Back Time" is about to surpass 23,000 streams on Spotify. Ain't bad for a young man who's starting to make waves in Music City.
Inspiration Behind "Take Back Time"
Written By: Colin Hawk, Sam Johnson & Matt Gatewood, Produced By: Austin Shawn
"Take Back Time was the first song I wrote in Nashville with Sam Johnson and Matt Gatewood. I wanted a “feel good” song to transport you back to all the good times and to relive the good memories you had with buddies. You always seem to remember more stories when you’re with buddies throwing a few back. It’s like, “man you remember the time…” and a ton of other memories pop up."
Q & A With Colin Hawk
Q: What was that "light bulb" moment you knew you wanted to pursue music?
A: "I really just started music last May, that's when I posted that video and didn't think anything was going to come from it. I was at a bachelor party last September when my friend Bryson Cooper asked me if I wanted to open up for one of his shows. My first reaction was "that's kind of cool". I was really nervous. The crowd was around 250 people and I think the most I'd ever played in front of was 22. I got up there and started playing and it was so cool, but I didn't think, at that time, I would pursue music. The first time when I really knew music was what I wanted to do was writing "Home". Putting that out and coming to Nashville was awesome! I’ve reconnected with Matt (Gatewood) and seen what he's doing with music, and Sam (Johnson) who is a great songwriter. I really like their stuff and always take advice from them. With "Take Back Time", I had a few good lines and a verse. Matt and Sam tore it apart, basically changed the melody and most of the lyrics. I think that's so cool- how you can change a song and really make it yours and improve it. People have been really supportive of my music which really pushes me."
Q: Something that most people don't know about you?
A: "I'm pretty much an open book. I got a couple things people wouldn’t know. I was scared as shit to sing in front of people for a while. At the time, I couldn't have been more nervous but I think I did a pretty good job hiding it. I'm much more comfortable on stage now. Another thing... I had a mullet when I was younger, like when I was 3 years old in the 90s. Both me and my pops sported one. I told my fiance, if I didn't have a job like I do, I would definitely grow my hair back out. Lastly, those who know me from music may not know this, but I love sports. I golf, bowl, play softball and basketball. You name a sport, I probably play it."
Q: What's your dream concert line-up?
A: "I would pick an ”up and comer” to open. I love his music - so I'd have Kameron Marlowe open. That dude just puts out bangers. Number 2, a little different, some R&B and I'd have to go with Joe. I really grew up with Soul and R & B. 10 years ago if you told me I'd be singing Country Music, I'd probably laugh in your face. Number 3, I'd go with the king of Pop: Michael Jackson, everyone knows his stuff. 4th in line, to close... I have a couple. I'll do two more. My favorite artist of all-time: Chris Brown. And from the Country Music scene, I'll go with Brett Young. I model my singing around him."
If you are just discovering Colin Hawk follow him on Apple Music, Spotify, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Tik Tok
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