Interview: Joshua Radin

Cleveland native "Joshua Radin" is getting ready to kick of his tour promoting his new album "The Rock and the Tide". After listening to his new album on repeat I was excited to speak with Joshua. We recently spoke about his upcoming tour and his music career.

Candis: You're playing at the house of blues here in Cleveland on Feb. 21. For anyone who hasn't seen you play live what can be expected at your show?

Joshua: It will be special cause my family will be there.

Candis: You were born and raised in Shaker Heights. How often do you come back to the Cleveland area?

Joshua: Every year for thanksgiving. I usually perform in Cleveland twice a year and visit three to five times a year.

Candis: You have a new album titled "The Rock and The Tide". How was the making of this album different than your previous albums or was it similar?

Joshua: This album was really different. It was recorded with a full band. It's half rock and half folk.

Candis: When and how did your music career begin? Were you always interested in being a singer/songwriter.

Joshua: No, I didn't grow up playing music. I started playing 7 years ago. I was a painter and worked as a screen writer. I began writing music as a form of meditation. I went through a break up and found it was really helpful. I was able to express myself honestly through music. Always preferred to be behind the scenes.

Candis: Now that you are on the stage, do you still get nervous?

Joshua: No. I don't anymore.

Candis: I personally became aware of your music from Zach Braff's blog. How did you guys meet and become friends?

Joshua: We met in college. We became friends through a mutual friend. After college we were both living in new york when we became friends and he got his role on Scrubs. He moved out to LA and we kept in touch. He's like my brother. I'm currently staying in his house here in LA.

Candis: Your songs have been featured in over 75 movies and television shows. When beginning your career in music did you ever imagine that? How do you get contacted about the use of your songs in shows and movies?

Joshua: No not all. I'm very grateful. I'm just contacted directly. I've even been contacted through myspace before.

Candis: Who do you look up to or admire in the music industry?

Joshua: So many people. Three favorites are Arcade Fire, Phoenix and Mumford and Sons.

Candis: If you could collaborate with any artist who would it be?

Joshua: Win Butler (lead vocalist of Arcade Fire)

Candis: What has been your favorite venue to perform at?

Joshua: Shepherd's in London

Candis: Where do you see your career five years from now?

Joshua: I'd count myself lucky if it's the same as it is now.

Candis: I recently read an article about your involvement with the non-profit "Little Kids Rock"
(A program to restore music to its rightful place in the academic lives of all kids in public schools) . How did you become involved with the organization and how are you going to be helping out.

Joshua: I've always loved working with kids. On this tour I'm going to start going to a bunch of schools, visiting the kids. My manager introduced me to the project.

Candis: You currently have a contest going on for fans to design an official poster for "The Rock and The Tide Tour". Was this your idea? Can you tell us a little more about that and what you are looking for.

Joshua: It was my idea. I don't know what I'm looking for exactly but I like when the fans are involved. The design could turn into t-shirts, stickers etc.

Candis: Did you choose your opening acts for this tour?

Joshua: My booking agent put out a feeler for anyone that was interested in the tour. I was given a list to choose from. (support acts in Cleveland are Cary Brothers and Laura Jansen)

Candis: Thanks for taking the time to talk with me. See you at the show.

Tickets are currently on sale for the show on February 21 at the