Andy Penkow releases new album, Shades On Me
Andy Penkow, the esteemed Australian musician-songwriter is fresh off the heels of his fourth studio album, Shades On Me. Andy’s return to Canada is nothing short of a musical treat. Renowned for his ability to weave authentic narratives into soul-stirring melodies, Penkow’s artistry is often compared to the likes of Chris Stapleton and Keith Urban.
Andy’s journey continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With a string of number-one singles on Australian Country Radio Charts and a Golden Guitar Award nomination under his belt, Andy Penkow’s musical prowess knows no bounds. Join us as we delve into his latest adventures and the magic behind his chart-topping hits!
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
I’d love to! G’day everyone my name is Andy Penkow and I am a country blues, folk, and alternate singer/songwriter from a small Australian coastal town of Sussex Inlet. I am currently residing in Toronto, Canada promoting my fourth Studio Album, Shades On Me, which was all recorded, co-written, and produced in Canada. I love to travel, and experience new cultures, and am a proud brand ambassador for the Australian Koala Foundation, helping to bring awareness to these beautiful, endangered creatures.
Tell us a bit about your recent release.
My brand new single, and title track to my new album, Shades On Me, is a fun and quirky song highlighting two very different perspectives of a relationship breakdown. It’s a very modern take on moving on where the person you were with is the total polar opposite of you, and instead of being sad and down about it, you continue to live your best life with your head held high. I’d say its probably the most contemporary song I’ve ever released and I’m super grateful for the experience I had writing this song with two incredibly talented Canadian songwriters Matt Teed and Elias James, and working with the meticulous and humble Canadian producer, Shawn Moore.
In fact, my entire album was released at the same time as this new single, so you can listen to the entire album on various streaming platforms, Apple Music, and can even purchase the CD or Vinyl via my website!
How do you typically go about the songwriting process? Do you have a specific method or creative routine that you follow?
It really does vary depending on the style and genre of the song. I’m often known for my sad love songs, which was the title of my very first album, and so for that it was largely made up of songs I’d written by myself in an isolated space where I’d disappear for hours on end, consumed in my own thoughts.
But I also love to co-write with interesting artists who think very differently from me, who bring a whole new perspective, and for those songs, I’d say it’s a very collaborative process like one big melting pot of creativity where we throw ideas in and there are no wrong answers.
Regardless, the key for me is to ensure I have as little distraction from the outside world, stress-free and the music and words flow organically (not forced).
Looking ahead, what are your plans for supporting this new release? Are there any upcoming tours, music videos, or additional content that fans can look forward to in connection with this project?
Yes, my music video for this single was recorded here in Ontario, Canada by visionary director Adam Bowman and it is currently available to watch on YouTube. I had a blast recording with Adam, who also directed my two earlier singles, “Heavy On Me” and “Bottom Shelf” and I can’t wait for you all to see the Shades On Me music video. I’ll also be promoting my new music at the Nashville 416 Songwriters Round on Saturday, May 11, at the Dakota Tavern, at the Canadian Music Week – performing at The Cameron House on Thursday, June 6, at the Great Lakes Brewery on Friday, July 12 and at the Canadian National Exhibition on Tuesday, August 27. Details of upcoming shows/venues are available on my website: www.andypenkow.com or on my socials @andypenkow.
Looking back on your musical career, is there a particular moment or accomplishment that you consider a turning point or a highlight?
There were a few turning point moments that really affirmed that I’m doing what I am supposed to be doing and heading in the right direction. These include my very first People’s Choice Award and Independent Country Music Award wins in 2021, followed by my first number one single on Australian Country radio, for Before I Go in 2022, and then getting a nomination for a Golden Guitar Award (CMA equivalent) in 2023. I’ve really been living the dream these past few years and I am so grateful that I’ve had a total of eleven number one singles on various Australian Country radio charts, three People’s Choice Awards and four Independent Country Music Awards since. My major focus right now is making it work in Canada and getting my music out there to a whole new audience.
Last but not least, it’s time to pay it forward, what upcoming band or artist would you recommend your fans check out?
What a great question! I’d say Canadian country artist “Jessica Sole” (insta @jessicasolemusic) is definitely one to watch as she is not only a great singer but a very thoughtful songwriter. I’d also recommend a Canadian indie pop band I saw live at a small venue a few weeks ago called “Suburbs” (insta @suburbsxo) that definitely had the IT factor.
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