Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your musical journey and background?
Hello! My name is Gary Patrick. I’m a Singer/Songwriter/Guitarist from East Texas. I’ve played music my whole life and began playing for a living at the age of 18. It’s been a career path that began in Texas and travelled through Southern California, Las Vegas Nevada, Nashville Tennessee and full circle back home to East Texas. I’ve been a gigging musician for over 30 years and have just released my 6th studio album. Some highlights include touring with “The Wilsons” (daughters of Beach Boy founder, Brian Wilson). My band, Clockwork, was contracted by the MGM Mirage Company to be a house band at the Mirage and Bellagio Casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada for 8 years. After Vegas, I headed to Nashville in 2010 and spent a couple of years immersed in co-writing and recording songwriter demos. Moved back to Texas in 2012 where I met producer, Chad Mauldin, and have recorded four studio albums with Mauldin. Texas supports independent artist and is the only State that has its own radio charting. It’s been a great opportunity to cultivate my music and make new relationships in my industry.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound and style?
I grew up in a house where music was being played non-stop. In the early 70’s, you’d hear multiple genres coming from the same radio station. I loved everything. Classics, Religious Hymns, Willie Nelson, The Eagles, Gordon Lightfoot, Boston, Neil Diamond to name a few.
Can you share a specific artist or album that has had a significant impact on your music?
Absolutely, Mark Knopfler from Dire Straits. He’s one of the most singular musicians I know of. He plays two notes and I know its him. His lyrics always have a sense of innocence in them. His songs are like a mini movies. I can see them perfectly. In a world that’s definitely lacking in innocence, I tend to place those innocent moments in my songs in the same way Mark influenced me.
What’s your creative process like when you’re composing or writing a new song?
There’s really no silver bullet for that equation. I can be driving my car and a song chorus will fall out of the sky. Life is research and development for a songwriter. I lean towards the tender side of life for the inspiration to write. The best thing that ever happened for my writing was to learn how to co-write. It definitely made me more objective and less emotional about the writing process.
Among all the songs you’ve created, do you have a personal favorite? If so, what makes it special to you?
That’s a tough question because all of my songs have a special place in my heart. The song, “Make Believe” from my 4th album, No Standing Waves, is particularly dear to me. It’s about a man in the twilight chapter of his life, reflecting on his grown children, late bride and faced with being alone.
Can you share the story or inspiration behind that particular song?
Indeed, my parents are among the dearest to my heart. They are the patriarch and matriarch of our family and “hold the torch” so to speak. I care-give my parents and watch them closely every day. You see, when viewing life through this lens, you tap into emotions that you otherwise don’t experience. That’s where “Make Believe” comes from.
Let’s talk about your latest song. What’s the title, and what’s the story or message behind it?
“High to Ride” is my current radio single and also the title track to my 6th studio album. When you get stuck in life and need a new perspective, a different view or something spiritual to lift you up to happiness, you need a new “High to Ride”.
Share a memorable or unique experience from one of your live performances.
Perhaps the biggest complement that someone could give me while I’m playing is the moment they connect with the lyrics and close their eyes in “surrender” to the message. That happens often and is infinitely felt on my end with gratitude. Those are very special moments for me.
Beyond music, do you have any hobbies or interests that you’re passionate about? How do they influence your music?
I have always worked on and restored vintage cars and trucks. A music career is one that never stops. There is always something to be done. I need something to do with my hands outside of music. I also love carpentry. Both would be second career choices for me and both are meticulous and go hand in hand with music.
Is there a dream collaboration you’d like to pursue in the future?
I would LOVE to write and record a song with Mark Knopfler.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting their journey in the music industry?
Be serious about your career but never take yourself too seriously. Learn to control your emotions as this is a career that takes a lifetime to master. Educate yourself on ALL aspects of the music business. Study on promotions and release scheduling before you record a single or album. Understand what must be done once you have finished recording and watch your expectations. If all you want to do is be famous, choose another path. Music deserves more of a long term commitment. There will be ups and downs, so learn to make money with a second stream of income. Stop buying so much music equipment and focus on being great at singing, writing and playing your instrument. The simpler your life is, the happier you will be.
Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or new music you have in the works? What can your fans and listeners look forward to from you in the near future?
I’m right in the middle of promoting my 6th album with both radio and digital releases. I have a steady promoting and tour schedule and also expect to record a new album mid 2024!