Julian Taylor's Folk Evolution: From Misfit to Musical Storyteller, ep. 340

·50 min·4 clips

Julian Taylor gently fact-checks the host's research, revealing his peaceful attitude toward truth in an era of misinformation.

Host Lizzie Ngo interviews Toronto-born singer-songwriter Julian Taylor on Basic Folk. The episode opens with Taylor's approach to truth, as he gently fact-checks the host's research. Taylor discusses his upbringing in Toronto, with a classical and gospel musician father and a mother who loved Motown and folk, leading to a diverse musical palette. He describes his first band, Staggered Crossing, formed at age 16, and how it blended influences from rock to hip-hop. Taylor reflects on his storytelling abilities, rooted in oral traditions from his Mohawk grandfather and African pastor grandfather. He explains how touring and connecting with people worldwide shaped his empathy and songwriting. The conversation shifts to his breakthrough album, 'The Ridge', which gained international attention after years of being overlooked in Canada. Taylor addresses being pigeonholed by race and genre, sharing anecdotes about audience reactions to his country songs. He details his writing process, often starting with lyrics in his attic surrounded by family artifacts. Taylor talks about his new album, 'Anthology Vol. 2', including songs like 'Hunger' and 'Don't Let Him', which explore mental freedom and identity politics. He discusses the importance of safety in creativity and performance. Taylor shares insights on being a parent and how it influences his role as an indigenous storyteller. When asked if he considers himself a folk musician, Taylor defines folk music as storytelling, tradition, and connectivity. He critiques Woody Guthrie's 'This Land Is Your Land', advocating for updated ideas of justice in folk music. Taylor looks ahead, expressing interest in exploring blues and funk in the future. The episode ends with a lightning round where Taylor names Neil Young as his favorite Canadian songwriter and shares personal preferences.

As heard by us

Julian Taylor's songwriting emerges through family artifacts, nature, and a steady commitment to getting the truth right.

Julian Taylor's conversation with Lizzie Ngo draws out the emotional architecture behind his songwriting, rooting it in the rooms, objects, and landscapes that carry his history.

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Why you'd press play

Press play when a songwriter's attic, family keepsakes, and favorite writing places sound like useful clues.

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