From North Bay, Ontario, singer-songwriter and platinum-certified, dual-genre artist Cory Marks is saying out with the old and in with the new, as heard in his latest cheerful single, "A Different Kind Of Year."
Cory Marks is a former hockey player turned musician who wanted to sit behind a drum kit like his idol, the late great Neil Peart. Now, he's owning stages alongside acts like Halestorm, Five Finger Death Punch, ZZ Top, Brantley Gilbert, Travis Tritt, and Toby Keith. His blend of arena-rock and roots country is stimulating, and his latest single is no exception.
"A Different Kind Of Year" was produced by longtime collaborator Kevin Churko (Ozzy Osbourne, Five Finger Death Punch, Shania Twain). It's a bright and uplifting reminder that 2024 is different. With the pandemic over, Marks released this song as a needed pick-me-up.
"This new song is about good times and reconnecting with family and friends. Committing to yourself to make things better in the year ahead and not taking those special things for granted," says Marks.
The new single brightly opens with powerful country-rock instrumentals that feel like summertime. As Cory Marks makes his warm vocal appearance, he paints serene pictures of good times with friends, firing the grill and turning up the country tunes. As he makes his way to the radiant hook, he explains that EVERYONE is ready for "A Different Kind Of Year," where we start all over again. But this time, with a smile.
The instrumentals offer the perfect blend of what Marks is best known for powerful arena-rock and twangy country that keeps the vibes high. We are head over heels for the song's message, and just like Marks, we're looking forward to taking 2024 by the horns. No pandemic, no isolation. It's just good times doing what we love.
Cory Marks just kicked off his 32-date Canada Liquored Up Tour alongside Matt Lang, starting in Calgary, AB, on January 27th and ending on March 7th in Moncton, NB. Find his latest single, "A Different Kind Of Year," on all digital streaming platforms.
Welcome to Buzz, Cory! We love the uplifting, positive nature of your latest single, "A Different Kind Of Year." What initially inspired you to write this optimistic anthem?
I wrote this song with Kevin and Kane Churko, and this is a country song for country people meant to make you feel good and positive. It's a reminder to smile and live but not take little things and special moments for granted, like time with your loved ones, friends, and family. Make this year the best one yet; set goals and make them happen!
What was it like collaborating with producer Kevin Churko for "A Different Kind Of Year?" How did he help bring your song to life?
We both love the storytelling and soul of country music and the stomp and energy of rock. We are both drummers, and it's always great and easy working together to make the music we want to write and record for this project.
How does "A Different Kind Of Year" stand out from the rest of your discography? What makes this song unique compared to your previous releases?
It's a radio-friendly country-based song. It's not as aggressive or hard-hitting as Outlaws & Outsiders, and it showcases more of the countryside of Cory Marks with some Travis Tritt/Brad Paisley-like vibes and storytelling.
Will you be performing "A Different Kind Of Year" on tour? Might we hear some surprise tracks from your forthcoming sophomore album?
Absolutely! I've added a cool and fun ending to the song when playing it live, too… I grew up on Rush, and I'll just leave it at that!
How do you hope listeners feel after hearing "A Different Kind Of Year"? What was your goal in terms of their experience with this new single?
When listening to a “Different Kind of Year,” I want the listeners to feel good, positive, and upbeat. I hope this song makes you smile while singing along to it!