Brooklyn-based indie-rock band American Authors is known its feel-good uplifting hits, including, “Best Day of My Life,” and “Go Big or Go Home.” On Sunday, Oct. 27, American Authors take the stage at Bend’s Tower Theatre, bringing its anthemic sound and positive energy to the high desert. I had the chance to chat with lead vocalist and guitarist Zac Barnett about the band’s journey, their creative process and some memorable moments on tour.
Source Weekly: You met your bandmates at Berklee College of Music. How did you know that you know they were the right fit?
Zac Barnett: At first, I wasn’t sure, but after a few rehearsals and writing sessions, it clicked. When I was collaborating with them I felt like I was writing my best songs. They pushed me to be a better musician, challenging me to try singing in ways no professor had taught me before. Those little signs made realize these were my people. We all had the same drive – buying a van, pressing an album and working equally hard to make the dream a reality.
SW: “Best Day of My Life,” became a worldwide hit. Did you expect it to take off like that?
ZB: Not at all. We were all unsure about the song at first – it went through a lot of rewrites. Our producer sent it to a publishing friend; it ended up in a Lowe’s commercial, then a car ad in the UK. After that, it snowballed. It was a surreal feeling, and we knew we might be onto something special.
SW: Your music has an anthemic, uplifting quality. What drives that?
ZB: We’ve evolved sonically over the years, but the message of hope in our lyrics has always been constant. We write from the heart and we aim to inspire others — to never give up, to see the light at the of the tunnel. We want to be a voice of spreading positivity, something the world needs.
SW: You’ve toured with bands like OneRepublic, The Fray and Andy Grammer. Any standout moments?
ZB: Touring with OneRepublic was amazing. For how massive the band is, they’re so down-to-earth and we still keep in touch. Andy was awesome too, we saw his career take off with, “Honey, I’m Good.” The Fray has been an inspiration for me since high school. Hearing their stories of where they’ve been and learning from them was really special.
SW: You’ve performed at some legendary stages around the world. Do you have any particular memorable performances?
ZB: Our tours in Mexico were my favorite. We performed at football and soccer stadiums in Mexico City, but my personal favorite was Zacatecas, this beautiful historic mountain town. We headlined a city festival there with an amazing crowd and production – it was really fun.
SW: If you could create a soundtrack for any movie or show, would it be?
ZB: I’d love to do a Pixar movie. I think our music would fit well with their stories. We could blend the pop sensibility of “Best Day,’ with the folk elements of our new album, “Call Your Mother.”
SW: When you’re not making music, what’s your favorite way to unwind?
ZB: I run through the mountains. It gives me a sense of clarity, and it’s my time, and I often come up with song ideas on the trail. I also love snowboarding and surfing – anything outdoorsy.
This article appears in Source Weekly October 24, 2024.
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