Shakey Graves Opens Up About His Latest Album 'Fondness, Etc.' in Exclusive PEOPLE Interview
Shakey Graves, the singer-songwriter, discusses his latest album, Fondness, Etc., in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. The album is inspired by nostalgia, fatherhood, and appreciating fleeting moments. Graves describes the songs as having a sense of real-time nostalgia, capturing the sweet moments of life as they pass by.
Fondness, Etc. came together quickly during a transformative period in Graves' life. The album's first recorded song, "When the Love Is New," became a creative anchor point for the project. Graves aimed for a fast release, avoiding overthinking and embracing simplicity in his songwriting.
Graves' desire to strip away inhibition led to a record filled with intimacy and emotional directness, reminiscent of artists like Roy Orbison. The album's production process was marked by minimal tinkering, allowing imperfections to shine through and adding a human touch to the music.
The influence of fatherhood and family life is evident in Fondness, Etc. Graves reflects on the balance between creativity and personal life, finding inspiration in constraints and rules. The album's production involved recording in unconventional spaces, adding a raw and unpredictable element to the music.
Graves views Fondness, Etc. as a reflection of his current personal and creative state. He acknowledges the cyclical nature of progress and remains committed to following his curiosities and striving for growth. The album is set to be released on all major streaming platforms on May 15th.