By Brad Nichols
Colton Ford has taken a conscious step back from public life over the past seven years. He’s released an album (2016’s Glenn Soukesian) and several singles, but he hasn’t pushed his work the way he had done previously.
“I needed time to process the losses I was experiencing during this time; to reflect and grow,” he says now. The losses he is referring to are the passing of his mother and the end of a long-term relationship. He also dealt with some health issues.
Fortunately, the singer/ex-porn star is doing better today and even says he feels stronger than ever. In fact, the name of the first single from his new Unity album is called “Stronger.” Colton Ford spoke to us from his NYC home.
It’s nice to have you permanently back in NYC!
Colton Ford: I moved to California in 2013 to be with my mom. About a year and a half ago, I started making my way back east.
You say the past several years have been challenging, even debilitating, at times.
Colton Ford: Processing through the changes of life, which is a real and impactful thing for men, can be challenging. It was a lot of new and unexplored territory for me in many respects.
What made you decide to come out publicly about your losses?
Colton Ford: I’m jumping back into promoting myself and my music. Talking about my trials and tribulations, experiences and observations, both in song and elsewhere, is a part of it. We are all figuring our way through this life and can gain insight and motivation through our shared experiences. That’s the power of art and the bond between the artist and his audience. Music and art are a powerful way to reach, comfort and inspire.
They say what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.
Colton Ford: Literally! I wrote the lyric for “Stronger” as a self-speak to stay positive and hang in there. Our internal dialogue can help us process through difficult and challenging times or it can be the catalyst to our demise. It has helped me through, and the positive message is very timely, especially now.
Do you elaborate on these themes in the other songs on your new EP, Unity?
Colton Ford: I do. This record acknowledges the challenges and obstacles in front of us, but is also clearly hopeful. It’s a message of empowerment, not just for us individually, but also as we come together in unity. We need to recognize that we are one species with all kinds of wonderful brothers and sisters in it, and celebrate all of that!
Which song on the EP is the most powerful to you personally?
Colton Ford: Honestly, they’re each equally powerful to me. I know that’s a lame answer, but it’s how I feel.
How are you today?
Colton Ford: I’m doing well. I’ve been in therapy for almost 30 years now, and it has been a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Therapy ain’t easy. It requires commitment and consistency, but it works. Now I will say that I’m disgusted over what we’re witnessing in our country and globally. Unconscionable! Where is the empathy? I do believe there are more good people than bad, but we’re in a serious struggle between good and evil.
Are you stronger on your own or have you found strength through a new love?
Colton Ford: I am happily single and strong on my own. I’m open, though, but not looking.
Follow Colton Ford on Facebook @ ColtonFordMusic and Instagram @ TheRealColtonFord.
