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Thursday, September 22, 2016 12:06pm ET by  
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Interview: Gavin DeGraw on "Something Worth Saving" and Billy Joel's unique career advice

Singer-songwriter and musician Gavin DeGraw has returned with his highly anticipated fifth studio album, entitled "Something Worth Saving", and we caught up with him recently to find out what inspired this record and what he still wants to achieve. 

Your sound has evolved over the years, but have you noticed a difference in your songwriting process? Is there anything you do differently now? Nowadays, I probably just pay more attention to my peers and other writers that I’m in the room with.  I’ve really enjoyed the co-writing process lately, which is something I rarely did early on in my career.  

What has your most memorable career moment been to date? I’m very lucky and humbled to say that I’ve have had so many! I’ve been so fortunate especially the last couple of years getting to open for Billy Joel on a bunch of dates, which is just one of many that come to the top of my mind. 

Is there anything specific that influenced this exciting new collection of songs? I don’t know if there is any one specific thing, but I do feel like this album represents where I’m at in my life and hopefully these collection of songs are relatable to my fans.  

What are you listening to, reading, or watching at the moment? Any recommendations for us?! I don’t get a lot of time on the road to watch TV, or read much, but my all-time favourite movie is Tombstone, so I would recommend that!

You previously collaborated and performed live with country sensation Martina McBride! How did this come about and what was it like? Martina is one of the most talented and nicest human beings on the planet. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know her. Her and her husband have been nothing short of amazing to me and my team. I really hope we get to do more together. I’ve been able to sing on one of her records and the last time we were in Nashville, I brought her up on stage with me and my band at the historic Ryman Auditorium to perform my song “Soldier".

What’s the biggest lesson you have learned throughout your career? Is there anything you would change or like a do-over on? Funny, I was just telling this story the other day… I recently asked Billy Joel what was the one piece of advice he would give me, after I was telling him that it seemed like his career was bigger now than it has ever been, and he told me, “don’t die”.  

You’ve enjoyed great longevity and “Something Worth Saving” is your fifth studio album. What’s the key to your success and what does success mean to you? Wow, 5 albums…That really blows my mind, because I still remember wondering if I was ever going to be able to make my first one.  I’ve very lucky and owe so much to so many people who have helped me get this far. It means the world to me.

What’s the one thing you haven’t yet achieved that you would still really like to? That’s a tough question… It’s really hard to say because I’m thrilled with where I’m at and with what I’ve done. I could probably use some hardware on my mantle though ;-)

Is there anyone you would really like to work with in the future? Who would be at the top of your list? There are really too many to list, but I would be silly if I didn’t say Paul McCartney. How could I not list a Beatle?

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Watch Gavin DeGraw's music video for new single "She Sets The City On Fire" below:

 

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