Congrats on your new EP, Runway! How does it reflect where you are in your life?
Thank you! It reflects a period of time in my life specifically in the last few years. A lot of these songs are really about my relationship with my wife and how we have grown through the years. I think of it as an autobiography of the experiences that I have learned from and that we have learned from together.
How long have you wanted to do an album like this?
All my life. I heard a live version of Lynyrd Skynyrd's, “Free Bird,” when I was 13 and that is when it all started for me.
How did you know when you had the right songs?
It's just a gut feeling. Throughout this entire journey, I have continued to stay true to my gut feeling and it hasn’t let me down yet, but if it does, then I’m okay with failing because as long as I believe in it and it feels right to me, then I feel good about it.
Is there one song in particular you’re most excited about people hearing?
“Wherever the Night Takes Us.” It's a power ballad, which I have always loved. This song is about letting going and getting away from real life for a little bit. It’s all about living in the moment, and I think that we could all use that as a reminder in our lives right now.
Are there any songs that didn’t make the album that you now wish you included?
There are songs that didn’t make the record, but I feel confident that we (my team and I) have chosen the right songs for this record and there may be some songs that we can rework for the next record.
As we recommend Runway to our readers which song would you suggest they listen to first?
“Love Kickin' In.” It's instantly catchy and fun. No heavy reading or lifting. It’s just a feel good song that makes you want to get on the road and roll your windows down and crank it up. It’s a song about how good it feels to be in love and fall in love - a great, fun, happy song.
What makes Nashville special to you?
All of the talent. There is inspiration in talent, and there are talented people everywhere. Everyone is really willing to help and I haven’t found any egos at this point in my journey. Everyone is really nice and have wanted to help me and be honest with me.
How has Nashville influenced your music?
Just being around some of those great writers and musicians. Obviously, working with Phil Vassar and his team. Just being around the people that have done it before and having them show me the ropes and keep me away from the pitfalls has helped a lot.
What are some of your favorite Nashville restaurants?
Butchertown Hall is the best.
If someone is coming to Nashville for the first time, where do you take them?
Any bar that sells Music City Beer because that is the best beer, and it's a Nashville beer. I would definitely take them to Broadway for that.
What’s your favorite food on the road?
I try to eat pretty healthy, so Clif Bars are a great meal replacement when I don’t have time to sit down for a real meal. I try to eat an apple in the morning, but I don’t have a favorite. I try to eat pretty healthy, otherwise I’m getting sick or tired. So, Clif bars, they're delicious.
What kitchen appliance do you use every day?
Coffee maker for sure every day, without fail.
What dish would you cook to impress your wife?
Well that’s a tough question because I’m not a great cook. I don't cook or grill much. I do egg whites and that’s all I do very well, so I would maybe cook her some egg whites.
What’s on your pizza?
Cheese. Just cheese, plain. You don’t need anything else. Cheese, bread, and marinara sauce is the perfect merit of ingredients.
What celebrity would you like to meet at Starbucks for a cup of coffee?
Michael Jordan. I love him and grew up a huge fan of his and I played basketball in high school. He has been very successful, and I would love to pick his brain about life.
How do you stay connected with your fans?
I run all of my social media accounts, so I talk to them like I would anybody else. At shows, I always try to make time to speak to everyone.
Finally, if you could be sponsored by one food/drink brand who would it be and why?
Easy, I’m already doing that...Music City Beer for sure. I love that beer and they have taken good care of me and put me in some great positions in front of some great people. So Music City Beer for sure.
About Adam Rutledge:
Adam Rutledge’s sleek, raw and soulful voice brings authenticity to his songwriting and performances. He has knack for writing razor sharp stories that cut straight to the heart, full of detail and clever turns of phrase. That’s how he caught the attention of hit singer-songwriter Phil Vassar, which opened doors for Adam to become Vassar’s opening act throughout 2018. In June, Adam will release his new EP Runway, which includes his smash hit “Love Kickin In.” The Roanoke, Virginia native has also shared the stage with Old Dominion, Brothers Osborne, LOCASH, Eli Young Band, Lauren Alaina, Chris Janson, Tyler Farr and many more.
Visit adamrutledgemusic.com for more information on Adam.
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