Music Existence Because of Music, We Exist
Hot off of the aforementioned album If You Say So, John Philbrick’s strutting and screeching rock outcry “Losing Out to Crazy” offers an energetic stage to vent out frustration at the madness of the status quo. Over Philbrick’s unrelenting chords and pounding drums, lead singer Steve Maggiora belts out his angst towards the endless squabbling of modern pundits. Mimicking the emotional shrieks of Philbrick’s guitar, Maggiora begs for a return to peace, love, faith, and brotherhood. Rock on towards righteousness with Philbrick and Maggiora in “Losing Out to Crazy.”
And lean deeper into the fist-pumping fury of Philbrick and Maggiora’s anthem with the official lyric video for “Losing Out to Crazy.” As Maggiano’s powerful words flutter on screen, the video depicts a vacant, red-saturated Los Angeles. Uncertain whether the scenes are post-apocalyptic or merely pre-dawn, we’re standing at a moment of choice to either let the crazy take over or wake up to a new way of being. Luckily, waking up is the only option when faced with the combination of these stunning visuals and Philbrick’s hardcore shredding.
What motivated you to create “Losing Out To Crazy”?
Steve Maggiora and I had been writing songs together for a handful of months before Losing Out to Crazy was written. I think that having that creative momentum already going was the primary motivation and lyrically, the motivation was to send a message that a lot of people can relate to. A message that could be interpreted through personal relationships, politics, social media, etc.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I am a guitarist. So, guitar players were my biggest inspirations at an early age. Players like Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page, and more hard rock and heavy metal players like Paul Gilbert and Marty Friedman. Blues guys like Albert King and BB King later on. Nowadays, it’s anyone who I feel like is expressing themselves in their own unique and genuine way regardless of style or instrument.
What is it like working with Steve Maggiora?
Steve Maggiora is one of the most talented and well rounded musicians I’ve worked with. He is also a very fun and easy going guy. We related to each other musically right off the bat when we first started playing together. It was pretty clear right away that we could make some good stuff together. He makes the writing process fun and interesting.
How do you want your fans to feel after listening to “Losing Out To Crazy”?
I want them to feel like they can relate to the message in their own unique way. I also want them to feel the intensity and the ride that this song takes you on.
Can you walk us through your creative process for “Losing Out To Crazy”?
If I remember correctly, I came up with that intro guitar riff before we began writing the song. It sparked Steve’s interest so we began building everything off of that riff. The arrangement was probably the hardest part about making the song and I remember Steve, Justin, Dusty, and myself working this song out in what we call the live room. We jammed on that main intro riff for a while and got a sense of where the rest of the song should go. The collaborative effort really helped bring the song full circle.
What is the main message of “Losing Out To Crazy”?
The main message in that song could be different for everyone. For me the first verse sends a message about all of the chatter and confusion that is going on in the world via the internet. There are a lot of BS people out there whether it’s an internet troll or a politician. It can also convey a message about the difficulties in personal relationships.
Do you write the lyrics, or compose the song first? and why?
For most of the songs on If You Say So, it was the music that was written before the lyrics, but not always. Each song came about differently. Sometimes the music and lyrics would be written simultaneously. However, when riffs and grooves are already created, it creates a vibe for the lyrics to be inspired by.
What’s next for you?
Promoting this new record is in the works right now and I also have some other projects that I have done with different artists that I would like to produce and release at some point. Music that is pretty different sounding from the record I have done with Steve. I would also like to make more music with Steve as well!
