Bryan Adams Interview: 'I Admire Artists Who Can Reinvent Themselves, Like Lady Gaga'

Legendary Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams, known for timeless hits like Summer of '69, Heaven, and Everything I Do (I Do It for You), has been a cherished name in the global music scene for over four decades. With his raspy voice and knack for creating heartfelt ballads and energetic rock anthems, Adams is a universal icon whose appeal transcends generations.

India holds a special place in Adams’ heart. Having toured the country five times before, he describes every visit as feeling like "coming home" because of the warmth of Indian audiences. His music, which blends old-school romance with raw rock energy, has struck a chord with fans across age groups, proving its enduring relevance.

This year, Adams is back in India for his 2024 tour So Happy It Hurts promoting his latest album; with this new tour and the launch of his record label, Bad Records, Adams continues to expand his legacy.

In an exclusive interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Bryan Adams reflects on his journey, inspirations, and what keeps his music alive for audiences old and new.

Edited excerpts:

Welcome back to India! What is it about India that makes every visit feel like "coming home"?

This is my sixth time touring India. I’ve loved coming here since the moment I saw an elephant asleep in the middle of the road going into Mumbai for the first time. 

Trust me, this doesn’t happen in Canada! We’ve always had an incredible reception here, and this feeling has left an indelible and beautiful mark. I love coming back.

At 65, how do you, as an artist, continue to stay relevant to both younger audiences and those who appreciate the old-school romance in your music?

I have no idea; I’m not doing anything different from what I’ve always done. I write songs, go on the road, and tell people about the music. For example, with this new album, So Happy It Hurts, I’ve been touring it since its release in 2021, and it was nice to get a Grammy nomination for it. This tour ends on New Year's Eve, and we start a new tour for the next album, Roll With The Punches. So basically, as long as the songs keep coming, I keep going.

How easy or difficult has it been for you to reinvent yourself over the years? Do you feel the need to do so, or have you built such a loyal fanbase that reinvention isn’t as necessary?

I’ve never tried to do that. I just stick to what I know best: simple rock music that my band and I can play live and have a laugh. I admire artists who can reinvent themselves, like Lady Gaga for example. She’s so brilliant. But me, I stick to the bare bones and occasionally foray into film music if I get lucky enough to be asked.

Has your approach to music and songwriting evolved over time? For example, the song 'Shine a Light' is very personal and inspired by the loss of your father. Has technology and the way we create and consume music influenced your writing process?

I hope my songwriting has improved over the years. I bring the day-to-day things that are on my mind to the lyrics, and frankly, it’s hard not to write about your own life. But the secret, if there is one, is to write your truth.

Do you actively want to appeal to a younger generation? Is there a conscious effort to tap into a younger fanbase, or does your music naturally resonate with them?

Honestly, I don’t try to appeal to anyone but myself. I make music that I like and hope it sounds great in the car — that’s about it. I stopped having expectations about songs years ago because no one has any idea if songs are going to connect. In fact, some of my best-known songs have taken decades to be what they are today.

Who are some of your favourite contemporary artists who have inspired you throughout your career?

I loved rock radio growing up and spent hours listening to a transistor radio stashed under my pillow with a little mono lead (one earpiece). I’d have to move the dial in and out to get reception as it would drift away. I loved rockabilly music and still do.

A pivotal moment for me was going over to my friend’s house, who had a drum set. His father had Led Zeppelin II — I’d never heard anything so powerful and exciting since I’d first heard The Beatles! Then there were my days listening to singer-songwriters such as Paul Simon, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne, and somewhere along the way discovering Ray Charles, Motown, and Elvis. The list is endless.

 What’s your perspective on the current music scene? How do you feel about the way music is made and consumed today, and has this shift influenced the way you approach your own music?

I think it’s rather exciting. I’ve just started my own record label, Bad Records, and I’ve just released my first box set from the Royal Albert Hall 2024 of three albums. The new album, Roll With The Punches, will be on my label too.