Ed Gumbrecht
..., an American singer/songwriter, is a versatile and independent artist who creates songs, books, and poems. His first two albums have touched a million hearts. He returns with his new release, “Long Tall Carolyn”, a song that depicts how he met his soulmate on a street corner and chose to “run away” with her. With a catchy melody and a singable chorus, “Long Tall Carolyn” will be one of the highlights of his forthcoming album, “Any Given Day”, which will feature his original songs in various genres, such as rock, pop, and alternative country again. Relax and enjoy this warm and sunny vibe by Ed Gumbrecht.
How did you develop your musical style as the musician Ed Gumbrecht, and what are the main influences that shaped your sound?
I grew up on the great singer songwriters — JT, Paul Simon, Jim Croce, and the storytelling bands, The Band, The Eagles, Squeeze, etc. I played gigs in bands and in an acoustic duet on and off for years. I started writing songs as a kid — over time I’ve been polishing literally thousands.
Congrats on “Long Tall Carolyn”, which sounds amazing. What was your inspiration and what’s the story behind it?
The song is the story of how my wife and I got together — we lived in the same town and there she came up the sidewalk about to go for a run. I was smitten. She invited me along. I’ve been trying to keep up ever since.
What does your creative process look like in general, and what’s the hardest part in creating a new song?
For me the writing is a good habit: and I write a new song most days. The hardest part is not to repeat things you’ve already done/ideas you already expressed. Truth is you never run out of things to say and ways to convey it all — it's a big wide world, thank goodness.
Do you have any plans to perform live on stage soon?
I’ll be doing a live show in Connecticut in January. It will be at this charming theater in a town called Madison. I’ll be doing tracks from the first three albums. The show is a celebration of surpassing the milestone of one million streams. Some great artist friends will be joining me, including my recording partner, Eric M. Lichter.
Who is your dream conversation partner for music, regardless of their living-status?
Lennon, Croce, McCartney…Joni Mitchell. Lately I’m appreciating the understated prolifics of JJ Cale.
How do you balance the time-consuming, aspect of being an indie artist with the other aspects of your life?
You simply have to make time for the things you love. As a creative soul, if you’re not expressing ideas, part of you is going to wither. Can’t let that happen. Keep discovering and sharing. Sounds like a commandment — 11th commandment.
Do you still remember the first song you composed?
Yes. I was three. Song was “My Cousin John” sung to the tune of “How Dry I Am"
If you take a look back on 2023, what are your personal highlights and what are your plans for 2024?
For 2023 I wanted to release the second album “Enter the Muses” and make big progress on recording the third album, “Any Given Day”. Mission accomplished. Goal in 2024 is to plan, release and promote “Any Given Day.” And set up an initial touring schedule. The show will hit the road at nice small venues in a dozen locations. Nothing beats the vibe that happens when you play for/to an audience.
