WITH HIS NEW SINGLE “ON AN ISLAND”, ALEX RUNIONS CONTEMPLATES THE LONELINESS OF FADING RELATIONSHIPS AND BLAZES A NEW CREATIVE PATH
Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter Alex Runions is celebrating his newest single, “On an Island”, which is currently available on all digital streaming platforms.
A contemplative examination of loneliness in a fading relationship, “On an Island” is the first single to arrive from the Saskatoon, Saskatchewan-based artist’s upcoming third album.
Written by Runions and the song’s producer, Chris Burke-Gaffney (MacKenzie Porter, Chantal Kreviazuk), “On an Island” uses raw and emotive vocals with steel guitar, bass, and drums to bring Americana, roots, and subtle pop elements to the artist’s familiar country voice.
Runions says,
“Relationships can start off being beautiful and fulfilling, before evolving into growing emotional distance despite the semblance of intimacy. As co-writers, Chris and I wanted to look at what that sense of isolation feels like when – despite your best intentions – you’re floating further away from the person you love. It was important for the production to match the vulnerability of the lyrics, so Chris used his expertise to make the music deliberately understated and moody.”
As his first new music in two years, “On an Island” comes after numerous key highlights for Runions that have included two full album releases, a number of charting Canadian radio singles (including the Top 50 2020 hit “Middle of a Country Song”), recognition from the Saskatchewan Country Music Association Awards (including 2016 wins for Male Vocalist, Fans’ Choice, and Entertainer of the Year), and live performances at The Grey Cup and the CCMA Awards Week Songwriters’ Series. Most recently, Runions was named a Semi-Finalist in the 2023 Unsigned Only Music Competition for his future single, “Settling Up”.
In the wake of these accomplishments, recent shifts in his personal life – notably as a new husband and father – have led Runions towards a new creative path that blends country, Americana, and roots influences and prioritizes genuine artistry over conventional expectations.
He says,
“My music has always been a reflection of my place in life as an artist and a human. With where I am today, expressing my journey the only way I know how – as a singer-songwriter – is more important than hitting any commercial milestones. ‘On an Island’ is the first example of this new mindset and I couldn’t be prouder to share it.”
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
I’d love to, thanks. I am a singer/songwriter from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. I grew up in the small town of Kipling, SK and I’ve been playing music for about 20 years now.
Tell us a bit about your most recent release.
“On an Island” is the leadoff single of my upcoming album due out in 2025. This song is about a couple that have drifted apart through the years. Although they’ve stayed together out of convenience, the spark is gone and they’re both left feeling alone or as if they’re on an island. There is some hope throughout the song though, the singer is wondering if there is a chance they may be able to get it back, however, the underlying issues have planted roots in the relationship and it’s no longer salvageable.
I’ve also got something very special arriving on August 26th. Stay tuned!
Do you have any upcoming shows you’d like to tell us about?
Right now, I am gearing up for some shows in 2025 with the album release. I have a few shows coming up with some side projects, a Christmas Show in my hometown that I am taking over for Eli Barsi, who has a 15-year run of putting the Hometown Christmas show on. As well, I will also be performing with my 90’s country tribute act, Restless Texas, in October, always a fun way to entertain.
If given the chance, which Canadian artist would you love to work with in the future?
Donovan Woods. I love his writing. I’ve seen his show a thousand times. Seems like a great guy.
What’s your goal for 2024?
To get back and be more involved in music. Release a few singles and enjoy the process of booking and playing shows again. 2020 changed a lot for me with music so I’m excited to jump back in fully.