Tia Mcgraff Interview

Michael February 24, 2023 0

Tia McGraff is a multi-talented, award-winning singer, songwriter, performer, author and podcast host from Southern Ontario, Canada. Along with her husband and co-writer Tommy Parham, the skilled songstress has been making impactful and thought-provoking art for well over a decade.

Bringing together a burning passion for the art of music and an honesty that is long lost on today’s modern charts, Tia McGraff is a trailblazer in her genre; one whose efforts have made her a beloved figure on the international music scene.
With the September 3rd release of her latest EP “With Love,” Ontario-based folk singer songwriter Tia McGraff has proven that she’s in top form. The first single, “Go Your Own Way” reached the iTunes country songs chart Top 15, amassing 37K Spotify streams.

It won 2021 Posi Empower Award for Social Justice. Meanwhile, another track from the EP“Nighthawk” was awarded a 2022 Posi Empower Award for Peace. All totaled, songs from “With Love” have gained well over 100K Spotify streams, in less than 3 months of release.

Hi Tia! It’s quite an honor to talk to you today. What’s new in your world?
Thank you for the beautiful opportunity to share my story today. Well, that’s a great question. It seems, “reinventing the wheel’ is the new norm in the music industry these days. But how exciting! My husband, Tommy Parham, and I are enjoying being back up on stage performing for our fans again.

And instead of hitting the road again aggressively, we’re taking our time ‘dipping our toes in the water.’It seems to be working. Our fans are loving our performances and we’re having so much fun sharing our new EP with them. I’m also writing my next Jake The Road Dawg children’s book and we are excited to be planning some wonderful showcase opportunities.

You’re widely known as a folk/American singer, but you’ve also recorded some gospel-themed music. How important is your faith to you?

Whether I’m performing/songwriting/recording, I know who I am doing this for. God! My audience of 1! There is no other way. For me, God is my purpose and strength. The only way that after 30 years in the music industry, I am blessed to still be able to create and share the healing gift of music.

Tommy and I are currently putting together an Inspirational/ Gospel EP of songs we have written and recorded and are so excited to be attending some great gospel showcase events this spring/summer.

What do you feel are your strengths as a singer?

I began singing in theatre and had the opportunity to mentor some amazing vocal coaches here in Ontario. The technique I learned has sustained my voice. My voice is an instrument of God. I find my strength in that knowledge.

What about your weaknesses?
I tend to fall into the trap of comparison too often and overthink my studio performances. Tommy will remind me to be myself and just sing!

What motivates you to make music?
I still have songs to write, stories to tell, and audiences around the world who need the healing power of music. As long as God continues to open doors for Tommy and me, we’ll walk through them.

You’ve had many high points in your career, so far. What was the biggest thing that has happened, and how did it make you feel?
Moving to Nashville and meeting my husband, Tommy Parham is the biggest gift I’ve received not only in music but in my life. Changed everything in my life. Each time, I’m on stage and look over at Tommy next to me, playing his beautiful guitar, and singing his wonderful harmonies, I’m struck with amazement. What a life I’ve been blessed to live. What a calling!

We’ve heard about a new book-related recording that you’re preparing for release. When do you think you’ll have that ready?
I’m currently finishing the manuscript for my new Jake The Road Dawg book! I’m hoping to have it set for release this summer/ fall with a book tour.

Tell me about your favorite performance in your career.

That’s a difficult question to answer. I have so many beautiful memories of performances around the world, and people I’ve met. There have been times when someone in the audience has told us that one of our songs has literally saved his life, or one couple said they used our song in their marriage therapy sessions.

Recently, we had the opportunity to perform a concert to raise money for our local hospital. The turnout was overwhelming. We had kids on stage with us. And my family sitting in the front row, watching, and smiling. It was beautiful.

What’s the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you?
Every day we get to wake up and make music is a great day to be alive!

What’s up next for you?
Finishing my book, booking more events, writing and recording more songs, and enjoying life one day at a time. Trying not to get in God’s way.

Any words of advice or last words for your fans?
Thank you! I am so completely overwhelmed with gratitude for your love and support all these years. I wish you peace, health, joy, and love! See you down the trail.

Thanks for taking the time!
Thank you! Have a crazy beautiful day.