We recently caught up with Tyler to talk about his musical journey, his latest single “This Is Me” and more.
CN: For our readers who may not be familiar with you, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
TS: I mean I’m a pretty plain guy. Most of my time is spent invested in my music. Sometimes when I have free days I’ll try and get into a rodeo and ride some bulls here and there. And I don’t like pickles, none of them.
CN: Which artists have influenced you both personally and as an artist?
TS: There are so many but a few artists are Brad Paisley, Brooks & Dunn, Toby Keith, Randy Travis. It’s honestly hard to nail down just a select few when so many have had some level of impact musically or personally.
CN: You were only 19 when you began songwriting. What led you to begin writing?
TS: I actually switched from playing piano to guitar in my teens. Was even a bass player for some time in the middle of all of it. But, I think the enjoyment of singing led to me wanting to write and sing songs of my own.
CN: Do you remember the first song you wrote?
TS: Oh wow, I can’t say I remember the first one I ever wrote. Though I do remember the first one I ever completed. I’m not sure if I ever even titled it.
CN: Can you take us through your songwriting process? Where do you pull your ideas from?
TS: Most of my writing starts with me and my acoustic, more often than not. As for the ideas for songs, that’s a whole different animal. Most of it is personal experience or viewpoints. Sometimes a good idea just pops of out nowhere in the abyss of nonsense running through my mind.
CN: What is your all-time favorite song – not your own – based on the songwriting alone?
TS: Based on songwriting alone… Sheesh. I’m not quite sure I’ve listened to near enough music to pick a favorite based on songwriting alone. I think “Desperado” by the Eagles would have to be high up there, so let’s just go with that for now.
CN: Did you find yourself writing more during the pandemic?
TS: I can say I definitely wrote more then due to just having more time available.
CN: You recently released your latest single “This Is Me.” A very vulnerable title. What was the inspiration behind this song?
TS: A crazy ex and a breakup (I’m kidding about the crazy). But yes, a breakup and being told to wear clothes I didn’t want to wear.
CN: Are there plans for a music video?
TS: There is actually a live session music video available on YouTube with my touring band! Feel free to check that out and maybe we can get an official video one of these days!
CN: Have you been able to get back out on the road?
TS: Yes! It’s so great to be back out playing live music.
CN: If you could collaborate with any one artist, who would it be?
TS: Cody Johnson for sure. Not only is he a singing fool but a hell of a bull rider. May even learn a few things on how to get more qualified rides.
CN: What was the first concert you ever attended?
TS: Oh man, taking me back! My first concert in an arena was Chicago and the Doobie Brothers. My aunt and uncle took me with them and it was one heck of a show. Ill never forget the light show Chicago put on and singing along to “Listen To The Music” like never before!
CN: If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?
TS: Animated. I’m full of energy and life. I’ve been building character since I was born and I let it show.
CN: What’s next on the horizon for you?
TS: Making it to the end of the week without having a heart attack the way I eat, haha. To be honest, right now it’s just focusing on releasing the EP and getting out and playing. I try to not reach too far ahead and enjoy where I am now.
For more information on Tyler Short, visit his website www.tylershortmusic.com and follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.