In this exclusive interview, Chris Weaver and his band take us behind the scenes of their latest release, “Softer Side,” a track that blends Southern rock roots with the vibrant rhythms of Brazilian Sertanejo music. Known for their signature sound that fuses blues and rock, the Chris Weaver Band has taken a bold step forward with this new song, merging genres and cultures in a way that is both unique and compelling.
We delve into the story behind the song’s creation, exploring the spark that ignited this creative journey, the challenges they faced, and the influences that shaped the final product. From initial songwriting sessions with Eric Gunderson of Love and Theft to recording in the iconic Castle Studios in Nashville, the band reflects on how their creative process unfolded, and how they navigated new musical territories.
In addition, Chris shares his thoughts on how this song fits into his ongoing evolution as an artist, what he hopes listeners will take away from it, and what the future holds for the band.
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of your new song?
The idea for Softer Side came from a few songwriting sessions I had with Eric Gunderson of Love and Theft. We were diving into Brazilian Sertanejo music, and one song that really grabbed our attention was Coração Balada by Fernando e Sorocaba and Dilsinho. The feel and vibe of that track sparked our creativity, and we began working around that energy, blending our own styles into it. It was about capturing that shared musical language, crossing borders, and exploring what happens when different sounds and cultures come together.
How do you see this new song fitting into the evolution of your sound and musical style?
- Softer Side* bridges my Southern rock/blues roots and my growing love for Brazilian music. Over the years, my sound has evolved into a fusion of genres, and this song feels like a natural progression. It introduces new influences while staying true to the authenticity of my sound. It reflects where I am, artistically blending cultures, genres, and stories into something genuine and fresh.
Were there any specific moments or experiences during the production of this song that had a significant impact on its final version?
Absolutely. Initially, Eric and I were going to record the track in his studio, but after performing it live with the band, I realized the song had more potential as a full-band version. So, we took it to Castle Studios in Nashville, and the energy really came to life there. During that session, we also made a music video with a Brazilian producer, Olivio Netto, who had worked on our Chris Weaver Band Live in Brazil record. That collaboration and the atmosphere in the studio really shaped the final version.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, to remix your new song, who would it be and why?
If I had the chance, I’d love to collaborate with Bob Seger. I’ve always admired his ability to blend storytelling with melody. His influence could give Softer Side a whole new dimension—he’s an artist who brings soul and depth to every song he touches.
How do you hope listeners will feel, or what do you hope they will take away after hearing your new song?
Softer Side isn’t a deep, introspective song—it’s a fun, energetic track meant to be sung along with and jammed out to. What excites me most about this song is that we incorporated musical elements from another country, specifically Brazil, bringing something unique and vibrant to a global audience. We even integrated lyrics in another language, introducing a sound that might have never been heard otherwise. My overall mission with this song and my work in Brazil is to create a cultural exchange.
I want people to experience the incredible music from Brazil, and likewise, I want to bring our music to Brazilian listeners, bridging both worlds in our native languages. It’s all about creating a fusion with which people from both cultures can enjoy and connect.
What part of this song’s songwriting or recording process surprised you the most?
The most surprising part was how the song evolved from something simple into a full-band production. It went from being just a jam session with Eric to a powerful band track recorded in one of the most iconic studios in Nashville. The live performances really shaped how I approached the final recording.
Can you share hidden or lesser-known influences that helped shape your new song?
Brazilian Sertanejo music has been a significant influence. Most people don’t realize how much Brazilian music has played a role in my recent work. The rhythm and melodies are not a style you would immediately associate with my Southern rock/blues background, but they’ve been a huge inspiration.
What challenges did you face while creating this song, and how did you overcome them?
One of the challenges was navigating the cultural and language differences when drawing from Brazilian music. Translating the vibe and energy of those songs into something that fits my style was challenging. But instead of forcing it, we leaned into what felt natural, blending the best of both worlds. It’s been a learning experience to respect both musical cultures’ integrity.
How does this new song reflect where you are personally and artistically at this moment in your life?
- Softer Side* reflects my journey as an artist who is constantly learning and expanding. Right now, I’m focused on collaboration and crossing borders—literally and musically. This song captures that spirit of evolution, growth, and embracing new influences while staying true to myself.
