EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Paul McDonald Talks Upcoming UK Tour

This coming April will see country/Americana performer Paul McDonald touring across the UK with several shows pencilled into the diary. It promises to be an exciting run of dates from the singer/songwriter and British fans are in for a sure-fire treat – tickets are on sale now via thepaulmcdonald.com

Here we chat exclusively with Paul McDonald to find out more about the forthcoming tour:

Congratulations on the new tour announcement, Paul, how excited are you to be hitting the road?

I love playing shows and connecting with people through music. I’ve been touring nonstop for over a decade, but this UK tour is a big one for me… It’s my first time headlining shows over there and this run is even more special because I’ll be playing in small & intimate listening rooms. It’s just me and a guitar which normally makes for a really special show.

What can fans expect from these live shows?

It’s going to be loose and conversational. You’ll get to know me. When I play these solo acoustic shows I have unlimited freedom in terms of playing whatever songs I’m feeling. I’m sure I’ll be playing a bunch of new material from this upcoming record because I’m the most excited about that.. but I’ll also be playing a handful of fan favourites from over the years and taking requests if folks really want to hear certain songs. In smaller rooms, it’s really about connecting with the audience and making it a memorable evening for everyone.

How does it feel to be able to tour freely again following the Covid shutdown?

Touring is the best. I don’t take any of it for granted. I’m very grateful for every show and every moment I get to perform in front of anyone.

What’s your favourite part of being on the road?

The people and the places. I’ve never been to a few of these towns on this tour so I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and diving into the local scene.

Is there one city in particular that you’re most excited about playing?

Not so much…I’m equally excited about all the shows. London has always been good to me in terms of people turning out, but I have a feeling the smaller shows in smaller towns will be some of the most memorable. I’m excited about it all.

How do you feel your music transcends and connects in the live scene?

I’ve always been told I’m a “live act” ever since I first started playing music. For better or worse…but I feel like after you see the live show you’ll get the music in a much deeper way than if you just listen to the records. Every night is different and I try to change it up so it’s exciting and fresh for both me and the audience. I will be performing songs from the records but they will obviously sound a bit more “raw” considering it’s just me and my guitar. You’ll get to experience the songs in the most intimate way and see how they were first born.

Looking ahead, what else does 2023 hold for you?

2023 is going to be a great year. I’m finally finishing up a new album and will hopefully start releasing that music sometime this year. It’s been a few years since I released anything to the public so I’m excited to get these songs out. Also…I’m playing a lot of shows so that means I’ll be meeting a lot of new people and doing a lot of travelling. The UK tour is definitely a highlight. If this run of solo shows goes well I’m hoping to come back in the fall with the band and start spending a lot more time overseas.

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