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08.01.04
Since he has released "I Am", Michael Tolcher has
continued to succeed, engaging audiences around the
country. Now, "Tolch" talks to us about the core values
in his album, life on the road, and his love for key
lime tarts. Read on for more.
Michael Tolcher has traveled far and wide to promote
his album, "I Am". Put aside the alternative meld
of inspiring hip hop, and you have a collection of songs
that inspire the soul – written by a guy who knows that
peace is in style.
Tolcher, a Georgia native, said the album is an effort
to capture a 12-year emergence of "a dude-turned-artist."
It's clear to see that a personal journey took place,
and the triumphs and toils of the path less taken are
presented poetically throughout the album.
"There is a lot of 'art' that happened during the process
that was enlightening and pleasing to me," said Tolcher.
With lyrics such as, "Here comes the sun/Over my head/Show
me the path/And I'll be led/Walking alone I’m not afraid/I
have my wings to fly away," Tolcher's growth is evident.
Themes of strength and positivity emerge during just
about every song. And when it's not about introspection,
Tolcher’s music is all about having a good time and
cutting loose as he does in "Taxi Ride".
"The hip hop-based sound is what I've been after since
'94," explained Tolcher. The album is notorious for
bouncing back and forth from alternative rock to hip
hop.
Although he can't control the audiences that will be
attracted to the album, he invites everyone to join
his musical experience.
"If they share my philosophies — awesome, lets
unite and create a hopeful future," Tolcher commented.
"Any which, let's jam...let's celebrate our love of
life!"
His hit tune, "Mission Responsible" is one that blends
elements of pop rock with hip hop. Recently remastered,
the song previously contained a bridge which included
a Jason Mraz-like rap.
"My reason for clipping the rap was to free up that
part of the song...the rap was partly a free-verse in
a moment that wasn't meant to be sung every night, or
to be heard every time the song plays, Tolcher said.
The new product involves Tolcher wailing, "Take a look
all around you/Say that you want to/See something better
than this."
The song is a hit among the crowds, which Tolcher enjoys
entertaining. And whether they bring him key lime tarts,
photo collages, or just stop to say 'hello' after a
concert, Tolcher said he is amazed with the support
they provide him.
Looking to the near future, "Tolch" (as his fans call
him) is looking to do more shows with Gavin DeGraw.
"I love doing tours with him," Tolcher commented.
He is currently on tour with Hanson, and is also slated
to do some shows with Sister Hazel during September.
Tolcher's band experienced some changes approximately
seven months ago, adding two new guitarists and a drummer,
but the now tight-knit group is a well-oiled music machine.
Yet one that is never too robotic to bust out improv
interludes and covers.
"We've become a family," he added about his band mates.
But more than the bonded musicians is the basis on which
Tolcher continues to play.
"The shows elevate me the most. They allow me to leave
my skin for a half hour or so."
Even though that may be a temporary pleasure, Tolcher
wouldn’t have it any other way.
"The road is wonderful," he said. "These are the best
days of my life."
Interviewed by Kristen
Fischer
DiscoveringArtists.com
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