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You can discover ‘I’m The Only One For You’ featured on the Best Power Pop of 2024 Spotify Playlist.

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Scheduled for release on February 16th through JEM Records, Paul Collins’ newest album, “Stand Back and Take a Good Look,” wasn’t a solo endeavor. Opting for collaboration, Collins assembled a remarkable lineup that included the late Dwight Twilley, Richard X Heyman, Prairie Prince, Ronnie Barnett, and members of 20/20 and Shoes. The outcome? Twelve delightful, crystal-clear, predominantly upbeat Power Pop anthems. Over at Sweet Sweet Music headquarters, we’ve cleared the space, pushing aside chairs and tables, ready to jump and dance while enjoying the tunes.

Paul, it seemed like you stepped away from the music scene for a bit. Was that the case, or did it just appear that way?

When the pandemic hit, I just stopped, like everybody did. Then, once things had really settled in, I just wasn’t able to find a re-entry point until now. I had spent ten-plus years touring all over, and quite frankly, I was tired and getting older. It seemed like a good time to step back and take a good look!

When you introduced your new album on social media, you highlighted collaborations with prominent Power Pop figures. Were these iconic partnerships part of your initial vision for the album, or did they naturally evolve during the creative process?

It was really a spontaneous thing. I didn’t really have a band, and I wanted to get that band sound, but I didn’t know a lot of musicians here in New York who were experts at this kind of music. So, I said to myself, “Why don’t I call some of my friends around the country to see what they would say?” Without exception, they all immediately said, “Yes!” So, in short order, I had an absolutely stellar lineup of musicians to contribute to the record.

Creating the perfect song—how much of a creative high does that bring?

For me, it’s everything! Writing the perfect pop song is my lifelong pursuit.

What significance does this new album hold for you, and what can listeners anticipate from it?

First off, it’s a rock ‘n’ roll record, so hopefully, people will jump around and enjoy it! Then, I guess it would be nice if some of the songs really resonate with people. I know for me, having songs that you hold close to you is a big part of why we are drawn to music in the first place.

When you perform in the Netherlands, it’s clear your music resonates with more than just my kids. How does it feel to witness your music embraced by successive generations time and again?

This is the power of music; it can transcend everything and connect people from different cultures, backgrounds, and generations. In the end, it’s about making you feel something, and good music becomes the soundtrack to our lives! Keep on Rocking!