Chesney Hawkes Returns with New Album “Living Arrows”
Thirty-three years after his iconic hit, “The One And Only,” Chesney Hawkes is set to release his new album, “Living Arrows.” This long-awaited project was postponed until his return to the UK from Los Angeles.
A Journey Back to Music
In 1991, Chesney Hawkes was a household name, riding high on the success of his chart-topping single, “The One And Only,” penned by Nik Kershaw. Since then, he has released only five albums, with “Living Arrows” marking his sixth. Hawkes reflects on his long hiatus, stating, “It’s taken a long time to feel confident enough to really throw myself back into a project.”
Why Now?
After twelve years in Los Angeles focused on raising his children, Hawkes felt the need for a personal connection to his music. “I had this album in my mind since before COVID, but I wanted to be on home soil before releasing anything,” he explains.
Musical Influences
While “Living Arrows” retains its pop essence, it also incorporates rock elements. Hawkes credits his songwriting roots to legends like The Beatles and David Bowie, but acknowledges the fresh commercial feel brought by collaborator Jake Gosling, known for his work with Ed Sheeran and Lady Gaga.
Collaboration with Nik Kershaw
Hawkes reunites with his longtime friend and collaborator Nik Kershaw on three tracks for the new album. He describes Kershaw as a mentor and a source of inspiration, highlighting the unique tricks and creativity they share in their songwriting process.
Bold Visuals and Themes
First Single: “Get A Hold Of Yourself”
The lead single from “Living Arrows,” features a daring music video where Hawkes dances naked in a British stately home. He explains, “The song is about freedom of self-expression, and I wanted to reflect that in a bold way.” Inspired by the film “Saltburn,” he embraced the idea of liberation, despite initial reservations about appearing naked in his fifties.
Support from Family
While he didn’t have time to prepare physically for the shoot, his family’s reaction was supportive and humorous. His wife accompanied him to the shoot, while his kids teased him about his “midlife crisis.”
Legacy and Future Plans
Remembering “The One And Only”
Despite his new music, Hawkes acknowledges that “The One And Only” remains his signature song. He admits to being amused when it occasionally pops into his head, often questioning the music choices in public spaces when he hears it play.
Looking Ahead
With the excitement of releasing “Living Arrows,” Hawkes hints at future projects, stating, “I’ve already started thinking about the next album.” The emotional response to hearing his new single on the radio has reignited his passion for music after a lengthy break.
Conclusion
Chesney Hawkes’ return with “Living Arrows” not only showcases his growth as an artist but also his enduring connection to his roots. With a blend of nostalgia and modern influences, he is poised to re-establish his place in the music scene, proving that creativity knows no age limits.
FAQs
What is the release date for “Living Arrows”?
The exact release date for Chesney Hawkes’ album “Living Arrows” has not been specified, but it is anticipated to be available soon.
Who collaborated with Chesney Hawkes on this album?
Chesney collaborated with producer Jake Gosling and songwriter Nik Kershaw on several tracks for “Living Arrows.”
What themes are explored in the album?
The album explores themes of self-expression, personal growth, and the liberation that comes with age and experience.
Is Chesney Hawkes planning to release more music in the future?
Yes, Chesney has expressed interest in starting work on his next album following the release of “Living Arrows.”
