Conversations with Tommy Charles

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Tommy Charles.

Hi Tommy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hey there, I’m Tommy Charles, and boy, do I have a story for ya. My life? It’s been one heck of a ride, full of tunes and travels that have taken me from one end of the globe to another, mixing it up with cultures and languages that have shaped the musician I am today. Picture this: a country music guy who can do songs in French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Persian. Yeah, that’s me!

My journey started with humble beginnings, opening for big names like Laurence Jalbert back in Quebec to jamming with choirs and swinging with a big ballroom band. Think of a modern-day mix between Dean Martin and Vicente Fernandez—that’s the vibe I was going for.

But it’s not all maple syrup and snow; my adventures took me through the vibrant scenes of South America and Texas, soaking in the local sounds and spicing up my music. I started blending English and Spanish in my songs, throwing in a dash of Latin classics, ranchera vibes, and Tex-Mex tunes that set the stage on fire.

Now, I’m hanging my hat in Calgary, ready to stir up the classic country crooner scene with a twist. My latest project? It’s all about bridging the gap between the heart of Americana and the soulful echoes of world music, all while showing off my three-octave range that harks back to the golden era of the ’60s.

But it’s not just about looking back; I’m here to shake things up. This new endeavor is my love letter to the musical influences that have colored my life, aiming to blend the nostalgic with the modern, creating something truly unique. It’s a journey through the rich tapestry of sound from the Americas and beyond, and I’m inviting you along for the ride.

Since my time on “La Voix” (that’s Quebec’s version of “The Voice”) back in 2019, things have taken off. I’ve dropped singles, released my debut album “Southern Accent,” and watched my track “Second Chance” climb the charts. From ’90s honky-tonk to a sound that’s all about embracing the globe, my music reflects my travels, my heritage, and all the places I’ve called home, from the spicy rhythms of Latin America to the serene melodies of Persian traditional music.

So, strap in and get ready. This is more than just country—it’s a journey, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I was blessed to have had a solid support system and a blessed childhood. I struggled through some harder relationships and with severe disease in my teens, but I am back on my feet now. I have had peak moments of clarity that changed me.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Alright, let me fold in this new bit about my latest escapade, the album I’m currently working on.

This record, my friends, is where my musical journey hits a new peak. I’ve taken all the soulful bits from my past tunes and spiced them up with a broader, bolder vision. I’ve dived headfirst into a melting pot of sounds that span from the cozy vibes of Americana to the electrifying beats of Latin America, stepping into realms I’ve never explored before.

Collaborating with artists from all these varied backgrounds has been a total eye-opener. I’ve soaked in new sounds, stories, and ways of expressing music that I never knew existed. We aimed to create something that feels familiar yet entirely fresh, channeling the classic rock ‘n’ roll spirit of the ’60s and ’70s that bands across the Americas were all about, but with a modern twist.

Working closely with such a diverse group of collaborators has deepened the songwriting process, turning each track into a celebration of our combined musical heritage. The album weaves together different languages, textures, and emotions, creating a sound that’s not just heard but felt.

Now, about the record, I’ve got to say I’m over the moon with how it turned out. It’s more than just a collection of songs; it’s the story of my evolution as an artist and a person. It embodies my belief that music can break down barriers and unite us, no matter where we’re from. This album is a testament to diversity, unity, and the endless possibilities that emerge when we truly open our hearts to the world.

What am I most proud of? This album, without a doubt. It’s my most accomplished work to date, offering a glimpse into the soul of an artist who lives and breathes every note, beat, and word. It’s a celebration of the rich tapestry of sounds that have influenced me, a journey through the places I’ve been, and a nod to the sounds that have moved me.

What sets me apart? I can weave together these diverse musical threads into a sound that’s uniquely mine. My music doesn’t just cross borders; it erases them, bringing together the best of multiple worlds in an innovative and deeply personal way. I’m all about embracing every influence and every culture and turning that into something that resonates universally. And with this new material, I think I’ve done just that.

What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Always be true, humble, and kind.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tommycharlesmusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tommycharlesqc
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tommycharlesmusic

Image Credits
Michelle Spice Photography