Bruce Sudano Talks New Album, The Track ‘Bad Girls’ And More

Mar 13, 2024 | Interviews

Words by Glenn Sargeant

Photo Credit: Amy Waters

American singer-songwriter Bruce Sudano has released his new album ‘Talkin’ Ugly Truth, Tellin’ Pretty Lies’ which is out now. He kindly spoke to us about his new album, career and much more:

You have released your new album ‘Talkin’ Ugly Truth, Tellin’ Pretty Lies’. Could you please tell us about the idea/theme behind it?

With the album, “Talkin’ Ugly Truth, Tellin’ Pretty Lies”, I’m tackling the future by wrestling with the past, all while living in the present tense. Dealing with the tension and pressures of current life, the vulnerability of aging along with the denial and acceptance of its inevitabilities. All of the stories, poetry and philosophies set sonically in a post modern production that hints at tradition while pushing boundaries and mixing textures. It’s meant to feel like a safe place to ponder complex realities…

Who designed/created the album artwork?

As for the album design I turned to the tasteful, innovative eye of Mike McGlaflin. In the past, I’ve sometimes used an art piece for an album cover. For this record I decided to borrow a detail from a painting by Donna Summer. I thought it reflected the subtlety, complexities and nuance that I’ve tried to create for every song on this record.

You released your single ‘Two Bleeding Hearts’ which is a duet and collaboration with Valerie Simpson formerly of the writing duo Ashford & Simpson. What was the inspiration/story behind the song?

I wrote the song last year after a disagreement with my wife, Francesca. You know how it is with any relationship, everything’s sailing along just fine it’s a normal ordinary day, but we all have these subtle pressures and anxieties weighing down on us that we’re not even aware of, so literally out of nowhere because we’re all a little on edge, there can be an emotional eruption. One that’s sudden and quick, going 0 to 100 in a matter of seconds over basically nothing. Then it comes down to who will be the first to simmer down and apologize? Who will be the bigger person?

In addition, you regularly tour with The Zombies and joined them for their UK Tour last year. When did you first meet each other, and do you have any memorable/interesting/funny stories from touring together?

I think we first toured together in 2014. This was pre their Rock Hall induction and we were all packed into a van, gear, Merch and all, for miles on end, telling stories, jokes, sleeping, eating and it was tight but they’re not only a great talented band they’re also gentlemen, funny and wise as well.

I’ve learned a lot from them about performing and commitment to excellence. I always look forward to my shows with them. They’ve given me a great opportunity to grow as a solo performer and the audiences have been great. I think what I do compliments what they do in that I’m up there singing my songs and telling stories, then they come on and rock the house. They tell some great stories too. I’m proud to call them friends.

Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?

I split my time between Los Angeles and Milan, but choosing Milan, the five words would be: art, pace, philosophy, fashion and family, in no particular order.

Do you have any favoured stage guitars/pedals effects?

I usually tour with a Maton guitar. It’s a mini with a good neck and great electronics so it sounds great and it’s easy to carry around.

What was the story behind the writing of the hit ‘Bad Girls’?

Back in those days, I was in a group called Brooklyn Dreams with Joe Bean Esposito and Eddie Hokenson. The three of us met Donna (Summer) at the same time and immediately our friendship was ignited through songwriting. We were all living in Los Angeles and another friend from Brooklyn named Bobby Incorvaia had a recording studio in Burbank called Magic Wand. We would call him at the oddest hours of the night if we wanted to get together and write. We would set up mics, roll the two track machine and just ad lib and vibe for hours. Bad Girls came out of one of those sessions.

How do you look after your voice?

Beyond the obvious of plenty of rest etc. I try to sing daily. I don’t consider myself a natural born singer so I continue to work on my placement and tone, the mechanics, with the hope over time with practice, they will become second nature. I continue to learn more about my voice, where I’m comfortable, what keys are best for me, depending on the song. Since I write what I sing I try to put the melody in a natural place for my voice. One tip Donna gave me was to sing where you speak.

What advice do you have for any novice songwriters?

Learn from others but find your own uniqueness. Listen well, be honest and find the right blend of inspiration and craft.

Do you have any plans for more live shows in the UK?

Yes, absolutely, hopefully next year in support of the new record.

Given your illustrious career and vast back catalogue, what are your thoughts on the current state of the music industry (especially with companies buying up royalties and song rights and the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

One thing I’ve learned, the music industry is resilient and will continue evolving. I’ve seen it over 50 years defying the doom anticipated with the next iteration of how music is created and sold to the public. The business adjusts to the change, sometimes not as quickly as it should but ultimately it does and I expect the same as it applies to AI. There will be a way to monetize it.

As for the selling of catalogs etc. I view it as a personal choice, but I have the voice of Morris Levy always whispering in my ear, “publishing’s where the money is kid”. As for the huge amounts being paid now, there too, overtime I think they’ll continue to grow.

What makes Bruce Sudano happy and what makes you unhappy?

I generally am a pretty basic guy. It doesn’t take a lot to make me happy as long as everything is in place the way I like it. I’m connected to family and friends. I’m a Libra and balance of things is important to me, feeding my spirit, work, play, exercise, diet, reading and writing, touring, recording, and most importantly husband, father, grandfather and friend.

What makes me unhappy is when my balance gets thrown but outside of that, people hurting and the lack of compassion I see, the greed, how much is enough?