This time, we get to know Duhaney, Greg Duhaney, Lead Singer Songwriter Guitarist, Rob Spencer, Bassist, Composer, Bryan Craig, Drummer, Composer based in Calgary, Canada with influences such as U2, Vance Joy, The War on Drugs, and Woodlock.
The track “Everybody Wants You” is featured in the New Artist Spotlight Family of Playlists.
Link To New Artist Spotlight Playlists:
https://www.newartistspotlight.org/playlists
1. Tell us a little about where you are from and what you are currently doing.
I’m Greg Duhaney, the lead singer and songwriter of the rock band Duhaney. Originally from Manchester, England, I lived in Toronto for a while and now reside in Calgary. My band, Duhaney, is the result of a decade-long musical journey alongside composers Rob Spencer and Bryan Craig. We recently released our first single, with five more set to come out soon.
2. What inspired you to start playing and making music?
My journey into music was driven by both passion and personal experiences. Having faced significant challenges, including a battle with cancer and the tragic loss of my brother to suicide, I turned to music as a way to navigate through depression and find positive action in my life. Creating uplifting rock music became my outlet, allowing me to channel my emotions and experiences into something constructive.
Through my compositions, I explore timeless themes of love, relationships, attraction, and the thrill of the chase, while also delving into mental health journeys, regret, and missed opportunities. My music reflects the struggle to break through self-imposed barriers, overcome self-doubt and sabotage, and confront the fears that often prevent us from leading compelling and adventurous lives. This journey has not only shaped my music but has also been a source of healing and empowerment for me.
π―. Who are your biggest influences?
Growing up, U2 was an obsession for me. They lifted me out of a lot of dark emotions during my teenage years and early 20s and provided a sense of community through friends and fans who were equally passionate about the band. Johnny Cash and Bono were instrumental in helping me find my voice, especially given my baritone to tenor range. Many of the first songs I covered were by U2 and Johnny Cash. The 90s grunge era also had a significant impact on our sound, particularly in the structure of our songs, although our music tends to have a more uplifting and positive energy. Today, I draw inspiration from artists like Vance Joy, The War on Drugs, and Woodlock.
4. What are your goals in the music industry?
My goals in the music industry are to be for listeners what many artists were for me growing up. Music has always been like medicine to me, lifting my spirits, providing support, and making me feel strong. I aim for our band, Duhaney, to have a strong following on Spotify. This platform has been instrumental in helping me discover new artists and build playlists that resonate with my emotions, offering support and inspiration. I’ve seen how artists can blow up on Spotify and achieve global success, and I aspire for our initial launch to be an online success that leads to a demand for tours, rather than the traditional approach of touring to gain fans. Ultimately, I want our songs to make a significant impact, much like the impact my current heroes in music, such as Vance Joy and The War on Drugs, have made.
5. Tell us about your creative process when you make new music.
My creative process typically starts with just myself, my acoustic guitar, and singing when Iβm grappling with something emotionally. Initially, the words might be random, and while some will make it to the final version, the main focus is on capturing the raw emotion tied to the melody. Once the melody is in place, I bring in the chords to complement it. The lyrics come together as I refine the verse, chorus, and bridge until they feel right. This method helps me ensure that the emotional core of the song remains intact throughout the process.
6. What is your all-time favorite song?
My all-time favorite song is “Where the Streets Have No Name” by U2. I love the dramatic build-up leading into the song. Itβs the opening track on their album “The Joshua Tree,” which was pivotal in launching them to global fame. The iconic rooftop performance in the video also made a significant impact on me, cementing U2 as heroes in my mind at the time.
7. What is the best advice you have either given or received in terms of music?
The best advice I’ve received about performing music is to not care about the outcome and to be fully present in the moment while performing. When you focus too much on the outcome, the performance can come off as contrived and inauthentic. The key is to immerse yourself in the music and let the performance flow naturally.
8. Proudest accomplishment?
In music, successfully producing and beginning to roll out the release of six tracks, and in life, serving as a spokesperson and advocate for mental health in Calgary, specifically supporting individuals coping with the loss of loved ones to suicide through volunteer efforts.
9. Just for fun! What’s been your most embarrassing moment so far?
My most embarrassing moment in music was probably auditioning for a singing group with my guitar completely out of tune. Iβd say forgetting lyrics, but I usually just make up the words when I do that and no one notices.
π0. Tell us about your lowest and highest points in music so far.
My highest points in music include selling out our first show as Duhaney and receiving a standing ovation from 700 people for my solo performance of “Sledge Hammer” by Peter Gabriel with Revv52, a vocal group in Calgary.
On the other hand, my lowest points in music occurred during the early days with Revv52, when I was battling depression. Over time, I managed to overcome these challenges and steer myself back on track.
Stream “Everybody Wants You” now
https://open.spotify.com/album/5t1jGeMZNy68yiFSN7DXqX
and follow their socials
https://www.instagram.com/duhaney.band/
https://www.tiktok.com/@duhaney.band
https://www.facebook.com/people/Duhaney
https://www.sotwe.com/duhaneyband
https://www.threads.net/@duhaney.band
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