Toronto-based singer-songwriter Julian Taylor shares “Drive,” a stirring new track that reflects on the uncertainty of the current moment while offering a reminder to keep moving forward. Blending thoughtful lyricism with a warm, full band arrangement, the track explores themes of hope, compassion, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of a more connected world.
Written when Julian observed growing tension, confusion, and hurt between people, “Drive” was born from a desire to counter those feelings with something more hopeful. Inspired by the writers, thinkers, and teachings that shaped his worldview, including Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, Handsome Lake, and The Giving Tree, the song serves as a reminder to continue striving toward kindness, understanding, and positive change.
“The song was inspired by the times in which we are living,” Julian explains. “It’s a strange time and I think people are stressed, confused, hurt, and it feels as if those emotions are being taken out on each other. I want to keep spreading the good word.”
Listen to “Drive” HERE.
Sounds wonderful. Julian Taylor is a unique voice in Americana. His songs and his sound compel you to listen. – Lyle Lovett
That sense of purpose is reflected in the song’s title. After considering several options, Julian ultimately chose “Drive” as a daily reminder to himself and others to keep pushing toward meaningful goals. It speaks to the internal force that motivates creators, thinkers, and everyday people to continue working toward something bigger than themselves. At its core, “Drive” is about the commitment to growth, compassion, and finding a way forward even when circumstances feel uncertain.
Musically, “Drive” bridges the timeless qualities of folk and Americana songwriting with the energy of a full band folk-rock arrangement. Originally conceived as an acoustic track, Julian and his collaborators continued refining the song until they discovered the larger sound it needed.
“We took a long time fine tuning this track,” Julian shares. “It started off acoustically but ultimately we chose to go with a full band and I am glad we did.”
The final recording channels the spirit of ‘90s folk-rock, drawing inspiration from artists such as Tracy Chapman, Fleetwood Mac, and Dave Matthews Band. The track features Julian’s UK touring band, including Michele Stodart on bass, Raevennan Husbandes on guitar, and Sian Monaghan on drums, with engineering and mixing handled by longtime collaborator Saam Hashemi.
Sometimes it’s hard to admit
Sometimes it’s even harder to see
Sometimes we put on a good face like the wounded Giving Tree
A joy filled ride for troubled times. – Jann Arden
After more than 25 years of music-making, from the formative alt-rock of Staggered Crossing, to the genre-blending Julian Taylor Band, to his acclaimed solo career, Julian Taylor has built an unmistakable reputation as one of Canada’s most compelling independent artists and songwriters.
His albums The Ridge, Beyond the Reservoir, and Pathways have earned widespread recognition, including Solo Artist of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards, multiple JUNO Award nominations, and a Polaris Music Prize nomination. Blending folk, Americana, soul, and rock with deeply personal storytelling, Julian’s music has been praised for its timeless quality, emotional honesty, and universal resonance.
With “Drive,” he continues a lifelong commitment to creating music that seeks connection over division. Rooted in hope, love, balance, hardship, and perseverance, the song offers a simple but powerful message: keep moving forward.
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