Music Existence Because of Music, We Exist
https://youtu.be/Fwv7qzIvfBM
“There’s a certain type of crazy that will always keep us sane,” Toby Hitchcock sings in the second verse of “All That’s Mine To Give,” the latest single from the legendary songwriter Jim Peterik. They mean the madness that all lovers share — the faith that they’re worthy of affection, the magic won’t fade, and that their partners will continue to find them fascinating. Improbable, sure. Then again, crazy as it seems, it’s something that happens all the time. The words of “All That’s Mine To Give” acknowledge the miracle of love and celebrate togetherness and the indissoluble bond between two genuine soulmates.
The music backs the sentiment up. Peterik, who has written wildly romantic songs for Survivor, .38 Special, Cheap Trick, REO Speedwagon, The Ides of March, and other world-famous bands, gives us a skyscraping ballad with a melody as sparkling and unbreakable as a diamond in the platinum bezel of a wedding ring. “All That’s Mine To Give” is a song for the soundtracks of our lives: our first loves, our late-night pledges, our weddings, and our anniversaries. It’s an adamantine composition from a writer who knows plenty about enduring value.
He’s paired himself with a vocalist who makes his passion and his earnestness manifest. Toby Hitchcock fronts Pride Of Lions, Peterik’s contribution to contemporary pop-rock. Through the duo, Hitchcock and Peterik imbue the timeless sound of ’80s arena rock with the urgency and inventiveness of modern alternative music. Hitchcock is a singer powerful and flexible enough to harmonize both styles: he can generate the drama characteristic of the glam metal era, but he can also sing with the sensitivity and nuance of a romantic balladeer. On “All That’s Mine To Give,” he applies his voice to a sturdy melody and a statement of eternal devotion — and he makes both sound as inevitable and welcome as sunshine.
Peterik matches “All That’s Mine To Give” to a lyric video that makes every ringing word count; they’re printed here in the soft, melting cursive of a glossy invitation. But there’s more than text in this clip. There are plenty of images, too: lovers kissing and holding hands, watching sunsets, and reveling in each other’s company. Every one of these couples is different, but they all share a single thought. They’ve found their partners for life, and they want the world to know.
Having timeless hits like “Vehicle”, “Eye Of The Tiger”, “Hold On Loosely”, etc. under your belt, what is your creative process for scribing such legendary songs?
Good question and difficult to answer because in a way sometimes I don’t understand it. I just keep praying those seeds of inspiration keep coming my way. I always say it’s 10 percent inspiration and 90 perspiration trying to serve the muse.
Your son, Colin, is getting into the music industry himself. What is it like watching him find his footing, and with so many years of experiences to share, what are some of the key lessons you have taken away that could help rising artists seize opportunity more widely?
Colin is amazing and much more accomplished musician than me. It’s the greatest gift a mother and father can receive to see their son grow and prosper as a singer, musician, and a songwriter. And a great husband and father.
What inspired your songwriting for “All That’s Mine to Give,” and what makes the song and theme of this song so potent and powerful in its delivery?
I’ve always been a sucker for a great love song. I’ve written some love songs through the years that have been used at weddings and other romantic interludes like “The Search is Over.” I wanted to write a new song with a fresh look at this category of song. Hope lovers all over the world fall in love with “All That’s Mine To Give.”
How was it working with Toby Hitchcock and Marc Scherer on “All That’s Mine to Give”? In what way did their strengths and talents help to make this contemporary ballad reach its full potential?
Toby’s lead vocal is touching and powerful. I knew he was the one to deliver this song. Marc and I added the vocal spice to bring it all home.
What led you to taking the lyric video approach to the “All That’s Mine to Give” music video? Talk about the selection of the romantic clips of couples featured within and why this was the most fitting way to fully realize the song’s purpose.
I asked the lead singer of Jefferson Starship and ace video creator to have a listen to “All That’s Mine to Give” and see if it inspires her. Well, she loved the song and the fruits of her inspiration is here for all to see showing so many faces of love.
Do you have any other great projects in the works that your fans and loyal followers should be on the lookout for in the near future?
Right now I’m enjoying the new Chicago album riding the charts. I was honored to write three songs with founding members Robert Lamm including the title track “Born For This Moment.” It was a thrill writing with a hero of mine.
Thanks for the great questions. Peace. Jimbo
