Upclose with Joseph Arthur
American folk rocker Joseph Arthur paints and writes poetry, but he’s most famous for singing soulful words about faith and life with simple but delicate melodies. Ahead of his Hong Kong gigs and art exhibition, the humble and friendly musician has a chat with Penny Zhou about Lou Reed, poetry and changes.
HK Magazine: You were discovered by Peter Gabriel in the mid-90s. How did that happen?
Joseph Arthur: Back then it was [all on]cassette. So I made my demo cassette, which I gave to a friend who gave it to a friend who gave it to someone who gave it to Peter Gabriel. Then he called me up and I got a record deal.
HK: Growing up in Akron, Ohio, were you raised by an artistic family?
JA: Not particularly. Neither of my parents are artists. But my sister is a painter, and my aunt paints, too.
HK: And you’re nominated for a Grammy for Best Recording Package Design for your 1999 EP, “Vacancy.”
JA: It’s a huge surprise for me that I got nominated. It was a little-known, limited-edition album, and the album cover was designed by an unknown artist. I have no idea how those Grammy people heard about us.
HK: Have you finished the new album?
JA: It’s just done. It’s called “The Graduation Ceremony,” and it is a very acoustic-based record. It’s about transformation, breaking up and survival.
HK: And how have you transformed through the years?
JA: I’ve grown. You’re a different person from what you used to be. Me, you, everybody—you can’t help it but things change, even though you don’t know how. I feel sane now… But, well, that may be the most insane thing one can say about himself.
HK: People always say your lyrics are “poetic.” Where does the poetry come from?
JA: It’s like a mysterious flow from the back of my head. It crawls out like a roach. I’m glad that people notice my lyrics.
HK: Would you consider publishing your poetry?
JA: Yeah, I’m actually in the middle of finishing a book of my poems.