Behind the Million Dollar Voice: Corey Strong Opens Up
Courtesy of Corey Strong
There’s a lot that can be said about Corey Strong’s voice. The Metro Detroit native boasts a striking baritone: one that’s packed with powerful resonance and is wonderfully fluid and versatile. When he sings, he connects with fans through his emotive delivery. When he performs, his talent demands your undivided attention. He can deliver a song in a way that is indescribable. So far, Strong has sold over two million units while also earning multiple Detroit Music Award nominations. To date, his career has produced two projects: Believer and It’s Christmas. He’s also released singles such as All I Need and Be Happy. Over time, he’s performed for various audiences nationally, pleasing fans everywhere. As an inspirational artist, Strong’s music has been especially useful over these last couple of years when the world seems to be constantly unpredictable. Fans of his music now find him more valuable than ever and eagerly await to hear what he’ll release next. Beyond the music, Corey Strong is also a photographer and painter, making him a multifaceted talent. In this candid interview, we talked about the meaning behind the music, fair pay for artists, and returning to the stage.
Eight Eleven: Looking back at your career thus far, what are some of the stories behind the music? What is the inspiration behind All I Need?
Corey Strong: All I Need comes from a place of me wanting to expand my vocal style, or as they say sort of crossover. I like the song because the beat is pop while the lyrics speak to so many things, whether it be spiritual or relationships between lovers or friends.
In these difficult times, songs like Be Happy and Believe have such important messages. What was the inspiration behind these songs and do you feel that they’re even more urgent now then when you recorded them?
Yes, these songs are very important, especially now when the world is facing so many changes that are negative. It’s nice to have a reminder that you can have hope and that if you believe you can be happy.
What is your songwriting and recording process like?
I guess it’s not much different from any other artist. One thing that I do like is to have my music pre-recorded so that when it’s time to record it’s just myself and my engineer. I think it allows me to really focus on what I want most to convey in each song. I do however enjoy writing with other creatives. The songwriting process can be exciting at times.
What are some goals that you have for the rest of the year?
I am currently working on a new musical recording.
Will you be releasing the album in the near future?
Yes, but as you know there are many working parts to building and executing an album. That coupled with the pandemic has made it very interesting to say the least, but I anticipate completion soon.
Are there any live performances or tour dates in place for the future?
Previously, we were forced to postpone future performance dates due to the Covid-19 Omicron spike. Now, as things seem to be regrouping we look forward to reinstating these dates but with a great deal of caution. Also, I will be participating in the Rosie the Riveter event in Ypsilanti, Michigan on October 1st.
Courtesy of Corey Strong
Many creatives today are able to start their careers through social media. In what ways does social media help independent artists? Do you prefer being an independent artist to being signed to a major label?
Today, social media is an amazing platform for those who are becoming. Whether they be an artist, singer, or chef, social media has the power to put them in front of individuals who would be fans of whatever it is they are doing. I was just telling a friend of mine who is a fellow musician that Instagram is basically your resume. There is a blessing and a curse of being independent or with a label. I started with a label and I enjoyed the resources that the label provided me. However, when you have someone over your head telling you what you can and cannot do, it can be quite daunting. On the other hand, an independent artist will struggle with getting their work heard whether it be radio, marketing, or other things and generally will carry the responsibility of self funding. I encourage aspiring artists to start off independently and let the label find you.
Many independent artists experience inadequate pay from performances and brand deals. You’ve spoken out about this in the past. In what ways have you had to demand your worth in your career and what advice would you give other indie artists?
Yes, that’s true. I think that when you’re young, you are so eager to be heard, so eager to play that you kind of take any gig that you can get. That’s not always a bad thing because you have to crawl before you walk, not to sound cliché. However, sometimes people who are not artists and/or people who do not understand what it takes to be an artist, undermine the idea of paying an artist his or her worth. So for me, I’ve just gotten to a point where I understand what a budget is and what my budget looks like when I’m making a record. I understand the work that my engineers and producers put into mixing, listening to, and building my music. I understand the individuals who devote time to singing and performing on tracks and all those elements when they come into play. It’s time, effort, money, and skills that they bring and share. They hold great value. So when I ask for pay for performances, it’s not because I’m some type of greedy individual. It’s because I’m sharing this wealth amongst people who help make me the artist that I am. You have to know your worth and set a standard on being compensated. I don’t always do free events but when the time calls for it and I have something that I’m able to share, I will. For example, I did a community event and I did not charge because it was for a great cause. Things like that you have to take into perspective. But, if you’re flying cross-country or having staff that are working for you, you have to pay these individuals; there’s no way around it.
As a performer, you’re a very emotive singer. What experiences have impacted the way you approach your delivery?
I think just living the experience of life and trying so very hard to share and be transparent in my journey. Music is very emotional to me, so it depends on where I am in my head and my heart. It generally bleeds over into a song.
Courtesy of Corey Strong
Which artists have impacted your sound?
Oh there are so many, it depends on which mood I’m in. I really love Whitney Houston, Josh Groban, Sandi Patty, CeCe Winans, John Mayer, I mean the list goes on. But I love music so much. I feel like I’ve taken a little piece of each artist I’ve listened to and made it my own.
You’re also a talented visual artist and photographer. What motivates you to diversify your portfolio?
I think at the very core of my being I’m an artist. I enjoy looking at and creating beautiful things. I’m motivated by colors and lines of symmetry, capturing a moment in time that can be a lasting memory.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Probably buying real estate on Mars with Jeff Bezos lol! No, but in five years I hope to still be thriving and learning more about myself and others through music.
Corey Strong can be found on all streaming platforms including Apple Music and Spotify.
Follow Corey Strong on Instagram at @coreystrongmusic and on Twitter at @coreystrong.
For news, tour dates, and more visit www.coreystrong.com
