Blackwing Music presents Arthur Terembula's newest song 

We're excited to announce "Nothing New Blues", the newest single by singer-songwriter Arthur Terembula, is out now on Blackwing Music.

Arthur's timeless musical style harkens back to the days of old where things felt authentic and fueled by storytelling. This unique sound and Arthur's role as a board certified music therapist is the epitome of what we're building at Blackwing Music. This song was produced by Johnny Irion and recorded on the Studer at Johnny's home studio.

STREAM "NOTHING NEW BLUES" HERE

We sat down and talk to Arthur about what inspired him to create this song:

What's the story behind "Nothing New Blues?"

The inspiration from this song came from Carl Martin, Mance Lipscomb’s “So Different Blues” and Freddy King’s “Same Old Blues”. It seems like just about everyone is stuck or looking at hard times ahead. People are working hard to get ahead and just keep getting set back, whether it’s losing a job, getting stuck in a job, or not being able to find one. I know some people just struggle getting out of bed day to day due to mental health or other circumstances during these times. "Nothing New Blues" is a reflection on putting your nose to the grindstone, but reaping little from what you sow.


How did you come to start playing this style of music and what inspires you?

I was originally inspired to start playing this music because of how raw the old recordings sounded. Listening through the pops, hisses and scratches made me feel like it was something I wasn’t supposed to hear. That still excites me when listening and learning songs from the country blues.

I am inspired by the human condition and the artists from the genre. Many were performers and entertainers whether it was on a sidewalk, at a party or wherever… but it is clear that they were dedicated to the music itself. They inspire me to keep digging and continue developing that passion whether folks are listening or not. 

You are also a certified music therapist, can you tell us more about what you do and why it's important?

I’m a board certified music therapist that works in pediatric palliative care and perinatal care. I provide in home music therapy to clients in the state of MA. My belief is that music by nature can give anyone a chance to express themselves. Music therapy takes things a step further because the therapist personalizes and supports whatever non-music based goals or needs a person may have.

I’ve heard some of my client’s vocalize for the first time and start to communicate through music. It’s so impactful to witness family members having that moment where their child or loved one makes a breakthrough and connects with music therapy. (I believe) music therapy is powerful and knows no bounds. It gives a voice to those who may otherwise go unheard. 

How did you first meet Johnny Irion and what excited you to be a part of Blackwing Music? 

Johnny booked me to play a gig at the Lion’s Den at the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, MA. We got to talking after the gig about country blues and Johnny’s first memories listening to Elizabeth Cotten and Robert Johnson records at this record store he worked at as a teen in Durham, NC. That kind of thing resonates with me. Being able to remember those first moments of hearing country blues is something I also share with Johnny. That first experience is a core memory. 

I’m excited to be a part of Blackwing Music because they are rooted in giving artists freedom of creativity, connecting artists with other creators, and also supports arts and music in school. I can’t imagine my life without taking classes in art and music in school. The lessons I learned from those teachers and developing the discipline to become an artist/musician are priceless and have equipped me for so many of life’s obstacles by giving me the skills to be creative, mindful and persistent. Those programs need all the support and funding they can get. I am 100% behind that with Blackwing Music.

Additional links:
- Learn more about Blackwing Music
- Hear more from Arthur Terembula
- More from Johnny Irion