What inspired the name of the band? What are your influences and are they the same as when you started out?
Originally derived from the old Marines adage: “You can run, but you’ll just die tired,” one might assume that their music has ominous undertones and potentially dark themes. Well, to Die Tired it is a punk rock way of saying, “Carpe diem!”
Being from various parts of the hills and streets of Pennsylvania, the members of Die Tired all bring their own specific flare and personality to the music. Each member has a slightly different taste in music, but in one way or another, these influences blend perfectly to breathe new life into some amazingly addictive alternative and pop rock sounds.
Die Tired is a multifaceted band, pulling inspiration from classic rock, heavy metal, pop punk, and just about anything else that they can play on a guitar. On stage, their upbeat and passionate performances always leave you wanting more. It’s impossible to not tap your foot, nod your head, or belt out the lyrics to their incredibly eclectic take on rock ‘n roll.
How do you approach songwriting?
Our approach is very free and natural when it comes to songwriting. Sometimes a band member will come in with a fully realized idea, while other times we get inspired by a catchy riff at a jam. We all work together really well and are open to ideas and suggestions; whatever it takes to make the song the best it can be. As far as themes, most of it comes from a raw emotional state and the music is a way to express those feelings associated with it. Lyrical themes usually come last. Sometimes they match the thematic style of the music. Other times they are based on fictional stories or ideas. This approach keeps the creative process open and, hopefully, not stuck in one particular style or theme. We love variety and dynamics in music and we think this process allows to explore a variety of ideas and styles.
How do you approach songwriting?
Our approach is very free and natural when it comes to songwriting. Sometimes a band member will come in with a fully realized idea, while other times we get inspired by a catchy riff at a jam. We all work together really well and are open to ideas and suggestions; whatever it takes to make the song the best it can be. As far as themes, most of it comes from a raw emotional state and the music is a way to express those feelings associated with it. Lyrical themes usually come last. Sometimes they match the thematic style of the music. Other times they are based on fictional stories or ideas. This approach keeps the creative process open and, hopefully, not stuck in one particular style or theme. We love variety and dynamics in music and we think this process allows to explore a variety of ideas and styles.
Why do you write the sort of music that you do?
I think this comes from all of our different inspirations and influences. Each member brings a different ear and approach to music, which, when blended together, makes our sound the way it is. We also love rock music and the dynamics and intensity it brings and how it allows the artist to express. Our style also pushes us technically and creatively as musicians. This is super important to us as we never want to settle with our skills and songwriting. The challenge in going through this process is what allows the music to evolve and grow.
How do you decide what to perform live?
A lot of this depends on the venue and set time. For example, for a headlining spot at a rock club, we typically choose a variety of songs from our catalogue that takes the audience on a journey. We will pick some of our hard rockers, some slower jams, and a little in between. This allows us to set our live show up in a way we feel is engaging and interesting for the live listener. However, if it’s a smaller opening spot, we tend to pick what we think are our strongest live songs and just put together a solid set of songs to set the tone. We do take some liberties with our songs live; especially for a longer set. We will expand on instrumentals, have improvisational sections, and longer introductions to make each song stand out a bit different live. This is also done intentionally for our fans so when they see us live it’s just a little different every time.
How do you decide what to perform live?
A lot of this depends on the venue and set time. For example, for a headlining spot at a rock club, we typically choose a variety of songs from our catalogue that takes the audience on a journey. We will pick some of our hard rockers, some slower jams, and a little in between. This allows us to set our live show up in a way we feel is engaging and interesting for the live listener. However, if it’s a smaller opening spot, we tend to pick what we think are our strongest live songs and just put together a solid set of songs to set the tone. We do take some liberties with our songs live; especially for a longer set. We will expand on instrumentals, have improvisational sections, and longer introductions to make each song stand out a bit different live. This is also done intentionally for our fans so when they see us live it’s just a little different every time.
What plans do you have for the future?
We have a lot of great things coming up. First, we are finishing up a run of shows in support of our latest single. Next, we hit the studio again as we have a lot of new material to track and prepare for release. After we finish up in the studio, we will have a run of shows in 2023 to support the new release, which includes longer tours and an expanded markets to take our live show. The upcoming release will also likely entail an accompanying music video, new art pieces, and merchandise as part of a whole package/experience for the listener.