In a world brimming with 'party country' anthems and tunes designed for line dancing, one artist is bravely steering the ship in a different direction. Forget the upbeat ditties and prepare for a journey into the soul, because Eric Hagen is here to ‘Make Country Sad Again’.
Fresh off the re-release of their deeply resonant track ‘Accuse Me’, which is already racking up nominations, we sat down with Eric to dive into his unique artistic vision. Having made a name for himself crafting songs that serve as therapy, striking a chord far deeper than mere rhythm, and their upcoming album promises to lean even further into this powerful emotional honesty, reminiscent of classic storytellers like George Jones and Hank Williams.
It’s great have you hear today, Eric. Let’s start from the beginning – when did you first fall in love with music? What was the first moment that made you realise music was something you had to pursue?
“My house was filled with music. Records were playing all the time. So, I quickly had a love of music. A moment that stands out to me is watching Pearl Jam on MTV Unplugged. I saw and heard Eddie Vedder and immediately thought I want to do that.”
Can you walk us through your latest project? And where there any standout moments from the writing or recording process?
“My upcoming record is called ‘Make Country Sad Again’. I guess it was born out of people always asking me if I write any love songs or things you can dance to. But. I naturally wrote songs on the sad side. Songs with a story and something to say. So, I decided to lean even further I to that and wrote songs like the good old boys like George Jones would write. Songs about heartache, heart break and hard times.”
Were there any artists, life experiences, or even specific moments that deeply influenced this project?
“I don’t think there were any specific artists that influenced this record. But like with many songs I write, they come from a place of truth. That can be from a personal truth or from an observational truth. Every word is true in some respect.”
What does your songwriting process typically look like?
“I usually start with lyrics. Mostly, a word or a line that comes to mind or something I hear. I’ll typically jot that down in my phone and come back to it later and write more. A lot of times songs come to me when I’m half asleep. And unfortunately, many when I am sleeping. I've lost more songs to not being able to wake myself up or remember them the next day than I've written. I mostly write by myself. Though, recently I've written a couple songs with someone.”
When you’re in the studio or writing, what feels like the most important thing to you? Is it emotional honesty, musicality, originality, connection with the audience, or something else entirely?
“I just try to write something honest. Something personal or something personal to someone. That usually resonates with someone. I try not to write with the listener in mind in terms of if they'll like it or not. That tends to end up disingenuous to me. I have to relate to what I’m singing about in some way.”
How would you describe the sound or feel of this release? Has your sound changed or evolved since your earlier work?
“I’m a minimalist when it comes to recording. I add what's needed. Not just to add things. Most of my sound is retro and vibey. Analog gear and such. With my single, ‘Accuse Me’, I did take a leap into incorporating more soul. Horns and backing singers. I love old 60s soul records and I wanted to sound like I recorded it at STAX in Memphis or in Muscle Shoals. I was a little worried it would be too much or that people wouldn't like it, but it has been very well received. Probably my most popular track at the moment.”
Is there an overarching message or emotional thread you wanted to express through this release? Was there a particular lyric or moment that felt like the heart of the project?
“The record really touches a lot of loss. A lot of emotional themes tied into a loss of a loved one, the loss of a relationship or maybe even yourself. And a bit of coming to terms with your past and trying to accept it.”
What challenges—creative or personal—did you face while working on this release? How did you push through them, and did overcoming those hurdles shape the final product?
“With the release of my single, ‘Accuse Me’, I went with a totally different sound. I love old ‘60s soul and I went with horns, backing singers and the feel of an old soul record. So, I was a little nervous it wouldn't be perceived well. Fortunately, it has been one of my most well recovered tracks to date.”
“With the new album, it's really just the same kind of thing before any release. You worry that it won’t go over well. But, you have believe in your art and try not to worry about what others think.”
For up-and-coming artists trying to find their voice, what advice would you give? What have you learned about staying true to your artistry while still growing and adapting?
“I’m not sure I’m qualified to give advice but if I had to, I'd say try not to worry about others’ opinions. Make art for yourself first. As your therapy. Your diary. Whatever it is.”
Looking back, what has been the most surreal or meaningful moment in your music career so far? Was there a show, a message from a fan, or a milestone that reminded you why you do this?
“Recently, I had someone attend a show and really connected with one of my songs. So much so that they sent me a letter. The letter simply started that they were so taken by the song and its relation to them that they wrote a poem about it. They hand wrote the poem to me and said it was also to be included in a book they are releasing.”
Do you have any upcoming performances or events that fans should mark on their calendars? What can they expect from your live show if they’ve never seen you perform?
“I will be going on tour in the Midwest (USA) in October and a tour is being scheduled for the South and Southwest for early 2026.”
Before we wrap up, is there anything you want to share with your fans or those just discovering you? Any shoutouts, messages of gratitude, or insights into what’s next?
“Thank y’all for listening and for the support. Come to a show and say hi or shoot me a message on socials! See ya out there!”
it's clear from our time with Eric, and his new single, that his commitment to authentic, heartfelt storytelling is unwavering. His dedication to writing songs that resonate on a profound emotional level, even if it means going against the grain of mainstream trends, is truly inspiring.
With a Midwest tour on the horizon and plans for more dates in 2026, and the new album on the way, fans will have ample opportunity to experience the raw power and honesty of their live performances. Eric's journey is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most impactful music is the kind that dares to dig into the depths of human experience, reminding us that it's okay to feel, to reflect, and sometimes, to simply be sad.
For more from Eric Hagen, be sure to join him on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
