Human Nature is known worldwide thanks to their distinctive harmonies, as well as their residency at The Venetian in Las Vegas. They also have a new PBS special launching this month. “The PBS special will air all across the country after Thanksgiving, which is based on the Jukebox album. We recorded that in Vegas at The Venetian, where we do our residency,” he said. “We are excited about that, and we will be touring next March around the country.”
Speaking of touring, on March 6, Human Nature will be performing at the PlayStation Theater in New York City. “The Venetian has been great! We are excited to take the show out on the road, and get out of Vegas for a little while as well,” he said.
On the song selection approach for their new album, Tierney said, “We were inspired by the doo-wop groups in high school. That was 28 years ago now. The very first song we ever sang together was ‘Earth Angel’ by The Penguins. We did an a cappella version of it. It has been a part of what we loved and what we have done as a group.”
Tierney listed “Stand By Me,” “Runaround Sue” and “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” as his three personal favorite songs on the new CD.
Digital transformation of the music industry
On the impact of technology on the contemporary music industry, he said, “When we started releasing music, which was back in the mid-90’s, CDs were still a thing back then, and over time, CDs have started died away. Now, it is all online, and social media has exploded. Social media has added a lot to people’s experiences. If you are a fan of a certain artist, you can get a lot closer to them by following them through social media. It’s a great way to get a message to people and tell them what you are doing.”
Tierney acknowledged that lately there has been a resurgence of vinyl. “We sell our Jukebox album in vinyl at our show. People like the sound of record in vinyl. It’s a cool thing,” he said. “Maybe analog tape will make a return soon,” he joked.
On his use of technology on a daily basis, Tierney said, “Everything is done through your phone, and the apps. You capture your entire life on your phone these days. It is so different than 10 to 15 years ago. You don’t really get photos printed, you just keep them on your phone. I use my phone all the time, and Facebook and Instagram. I enjoy using Instagram. It’s really great!”
He listed the late Amy Winehouse as his dream female duet choice. “Amy Winehouse had an old soul and an amazing voice. It took you back to the Jukebox era,” he said.
“There are different levels of success. Looking forward to the future and what you want to achieve, and the goals that you set out for yourself,” he said, about his definition of the word success. “There is always something more to strive for!”
To learn more about Human Nature, check out their official website.
