Gregg Bolger says he used to perform 150 shows a year as a regular entertainer along St. John’s George Street and across Newfoundland. Originally from Torbay, Newfoundland, and now living in Calgary, Bolger finds himself spending more time writing music than performing on stages, but that in itself lends a certain creativity. His latest single, “All I Need” is about finding freedom in music, regardless of where you are.
“Most musicians will have a quarantine song,” says Bolger. “This one was mine.”
Bolger finds himself writing from home at the moment, as might be expected given the circumstances of the present quarantine. Fortunately, as the song suggests, he’s got everything he needs right there, including a skilled song-writing partner.
“Well, I was having a chat with my wife about all the craziness going on in the world with the self-isolation, etc.,” says Bolger. “We were talking about how music can be an escape from it all — writing a new tune or just listening to music. The idea came about when we were talking about how no matter what’s going on in your life music can take you to another place for that 2.5 to 3 mins.
“The right song could have you on a beach with your toes in the sand or anywhere in the world really! I told my wife all I need is a melody and that was it! We both wrote the song within an hour of our conversation!
“We have written a couple of songs together over the years. Always good to co-write and bounce ideas. She is great at coming up with ideas!!”
Bolger notes that, aside from the co-write with his wife, the whole process of recording was managed while socially distancing. And much of the production process was still managed in Newfoundland.
Bolger recorded his vocals at his home in Calgary, while bringing in Steve Hinson on pedal steel in Nashville.
“He is a monster player!” notes Bolger.
Clint Curtis produced “All I Need” from Sevenview Studios back in Newfoundland.
“We got started on production right away,” says Bolger. “I’ve recorded and worked with Clint on a number of songs over the years and have never been disappointed. Such a talent when it comes to music and taking it to the next level.”
While Bolger doesn’t have an album officially in the works just yet, he says it could happen.
“Truth be told with the singles I’ve released it’s almost enough to put another album together. Maybe a few more songs unreleased and then could put them all together!”