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Originally from upstate New York, but now calling Nashville home, Patrick Darrah was an auto body technician who listened to the voices of country music greats (Charlie Daniels, Marshall Tucker, George Strait) as he worked. It was those same voices that motivated Patrick to put down the tools and pick up his guitar. Eventually, he switched gears, earned a degree in Music Production and Audio Engineering and devoted his concentration to writing, recording and performing.
A downtown Broadway entertainer who has performed at some of Nashville’s most notable honky tonks and nightclubs (Honky Tonk Central/The Stage/Tin Roof/Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge), Darrah recently released his new album, NORTHERN TRUTH which reveals honest recollections, longing desires, painful regret, and a hope to love again. Here, Darrah answers his Essential 8 and talks about the album, his move to Music City, and much more. Is there a story behind your album’s title? I really wanted to pay homage to my hometown of Bloomingdale, NY. NORTHERN TRUTH has a two-fold meaning; it’s dedicated to my family, friends, neighbors and the community that built me and has supported me in this endeavor. I also titled the CD NORTHERN TRUTH because I think it reveals that country music is everywhere. This country music just happens to come from a country singer born and raised in New York! Why did you choose to anchor the album with the songs you did? Well, to be painfully honest, the album is anchored with break-up and heartache songs because that’s right were I was at when I wrote and recorded the project. We shook it up a little with the track “Colorado” which is an upbeat, raw, rockin’ tune that really makes the listener stop and take notice. The final track, “Dry County,” just kind of sums up NORTHERN TRUTH. What’s the biggest sacrifice that you’ve made in your music career and what have been some of your hurdles? I left a more comfortable lifestyle (money, house, etc.) to chase my dream. I had an almost guaranteed future that I left behind to come down to Nashville. You sacrifice big things for a music career with the hope that it will all come back three-fold. I think one of the biggest hurdles was to finish up the recording of the new album (NORTHERN TRUTH). A lot of unexpected, unplanned obstacles were thrown our way and it took a lot of time to put it together. This career “moves” you to make sacrifices and jump hurdles; you just have to be in it for the game and I’ve got the passion and drive for this game. …and… I’m proud to say NORTHERN TRUTH is done! You recently moved from upstate NY to Nashville, how has the transition been? There actually wasn’t too much of a transition moving from upstate NY to Nashville. When folks think of New York or New England, I guess they don’t think we have “country” settings or enjoy “country living.” But, where I come from, it’s small town, small time, simple living! I’ve always described my hometown (Bloomingdale) as a small southern town that got picked up and dropped in upstate New York!
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about the music business since your move?
I’ve learned a lot... the importance of 1) building lasting relationships; 2) becoming part of the community; 3) helping a comrade out when you can and 4) don’t burn bridges . …and get out of your comfort zone every once in a while; it could lead to something great! Having secured “residencies” at various, and famous, Nashville nightclubs and honky tonks, describe the Music City Community and downtown camaraderie as you’ve come to know it? The Music City community is one big family. If you need a musician, just about anyone you call will be there to help you out in a second. …and everyone in the crowd is just there to have a good time. It’s rare to find places where everyone is there for the very same reason—the music! Is there a professional “bucket list” item you would love to check off? I’m 27, am I supposed to start my “bucket list?” (LOL) Playing the Grand Ole Opry is a dream of mine; so, that’s on my bucket list. There’s so much history on the Opry stage and standing on that stage, where so many greats have stood, is a sign that you’ve “made it.” Finally, do you have a favorite concert you have attended? I think seeing Rodney Atkins at Grizzly Roads in Denver is one of the most memorable live performances that I’ve attended in a awhile. The venue has an intimate atmosphere and Rodney was really interactive with the fans —THAT'S what being an “entertainer” is all about. Website Purchase
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February 2019
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