David Houle Marks a New Era with Two Stirring Singles and a Move to Europe

Montreal’s multidisciplinary marvel, David Houle, is ushering in a transformative chapter—creatively and personally. Best known for his gravity-defying performances in Cirque du Soleil, his electric stage presence in Kinky Boots, and international tours alongside acts like Marilyn Manson and Slipknot, Houle is now making waves in the pop music world with two deeply resonant singles: “Only Time” and “Silent Roads.”

Each track is a reflection of his ever-evolving artistic voice. “Only Time” is a hauntingly beautiful soft pop ballad that captures the heartache of losing his mother at just 13 years old. It’s a song written from over two decades of emotional excavation—a tender tribute for anyone walking the long road of grief. “Grief is a shared experience,” David reflects. “I wanted to create a space of healing through sound.”

In contrast, “Silent Roads” hits with a vibrant EDM pulse, born from a solitary moment of reflection in a small Alaskan town. It channels Houle’s battle—and victory—over addiction, celebrating five years of sobriety with a triumphant beat and raw, emotional lyrics. “It’s a lighter track, but it still tells the truth,” he shares. “It’s about reclaiming yourself, choosing joy, and not letting your past define your future.”

Beyond the studio, David’s journey continues to unfold in extraordinary ways. He’s relocating to Europe this July to join the elite Royal Palace performance team in France—another milestone in an already storied career. And 2025 promises even more as David prepares to release his debut memoir, “The Art of Starting Over,” a vulnerable and motivational dive into mental health, creativity, and personal rebirth. It’s the first of four books set to unfold over the next three years.

Whether through dance, storytelling, or melody, David Houle is a beacon of transformation. His music invites us all to confront what’s been buried, reclaim our power, and celebrate the freedom of self-expression.

Both “Only Time” and “Silent Roads” are deeply personal tracks. What was the emotional process like turning your grief and recovery into music, and how did it differ between the two songs?

The emotional process of transforming my grief and recovery into music has been nothing short of liberating. At 36, with the loss of my mother at 13, I’ve come to realize that grief is not something that merely fades away; it transforms and shapes how we walk through life.

It's like a soulful companion that teaches us how to navigate our own hearts, leaving us with the understanding that while a part of us may always be missing, we can still find joy and strength in our journey.

With my single “Only Time,” I felt like I was gifting myself a powerful anthem. It gently nudged me toward stepping into my power and embracing my right to take up space in this world. It’s a slow ballad that captures that moment of realization that even amidst the pain, there’s an opportunity to turn the page and venture into something new.

The process of turning my recovery into music has been more of a continual practice. As anyone in recovery knows, some days are tougher than others, and it’s completely normal to face those moments where temptation knocks at our door.

While I often present an extroverted and funny persona, there will always be days when I feel that urge to escape back to old habits that once comforted me. Music has truly been my healing balm. I’ve said it before: art saved my life. This singer-songwriter journey began as a hobby, and now, with every note I pen, I strive to push it as far as I can.

Navigating the intricacies of this industry as an independent artist excites me, especially since each project reflects where I am at that moment in life. It’s a dance between my grief and recovery; they’re intricately woven together in a beautiful yet complex tapestry.

“Silent Roads” and “Only Time” illustrate two sides of my emotional spectrum. They’re like yin and yang, completely different yet beautifully complementary. That’s what I find so captivating! And for anyone out there contemplating whether to dive into their own musical journey, I wholeheartedly encourage you: just do it!

Over the past few years, I’ve taken that leap, and I can assure you, there’s immense power in following your passion. Embracing vulnerability through storytelling can be a pathway to connection, healing, and, ultimately, joy.

So, if you feel inspired, check out my music video! It isn’t just about my story; it’s about embracing the highs and lows of our shared human experience.

Let’s take this journey together!

You’ve had a wildly diverse career—from Cirque du Soleil and musical theatre to EDM stages and now authorship. How have these different artistic lanes influenced your songwriting approach?

My journey through these varied artistic landscapes has undeniably enriched my songwriting approach in the most exhilarating ways!

Currently collaborating with an incredible team at Codebreaker, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with a new wave of educators, motivational speakers, and inspiring entrepreneurs who’ve reignited my confidence and passion for storytelling.

Writing a book was a dream I held onto for over two and a half years, but like many artists, I fought against moments of doubt and insecurity. Reminiscing about my early days with Cirque du Soleil, I recall auditioning multiple times over the years, experiencing that familiar voice in my head whispering, “You can’t do this.”

Even now, amidst the brilliance of my talented peers, I sometimes grapple with imposter syndrome, questioning whether I’m overstepping by venturing into songwriting. Yet, this very struggle has woven honesty into my craft. What I’ve discovered is that the journey of creativity often comes in waves—I could spend weeks away from my pen, but I always return.

Each experience, from portraying lead characters at Cirque Du Soleil to collaborating with icons like Cyndi Lauper, shapes my vision of blending my passions into a harmonious whole. These moments remind me that significant accomplishments are built upon months and even years of preparation, nurturing a patient approach to my songwriting.

Rather than forcing inspiration, I’ve learned the importance of kindness to myself throughout this process. The diverse artistic lanes I’ve explored have kept my curiosity alive. As I transition into my final years as a full-time dancer and acrobat, I find myself looking ahead, envisioning a future where I can contribute creatively from the casting side of show business.

Building these new skills and allowing myself the freedom to pursue what feels right is enhancing my writing in ways I never anticipated. As I prepare to move to France in a few weeks, I’m thrilled to dive into my next project: a French pop single! French is my first language, yet I’ve predominantly performed in English over the last decade, recently headlining in Las Vegas.

This shift in direction reflects how embracing different artistic approaches has granted me the confidence to evolve and adapt. I believe that each chapter of my career enriches the next, creating a dynamic interplay that ultimately makes my writing even more vibrant and authentic.

I can’t wait for listeners to see how this journey unfolds! It’s an exciting time full of possibilities, and I hope my music resonates with anyone pursuing their own passions and artistry.

“Silent Roads” celebrates five years of sobriety. What role has music played in your recovery, and what would you say to others trying to find creative healing through hardship?

Music has played an incredibly transformative role in my recovery journey. As I’ve mentioned in previous interviews, I began songwriting during the pandemic when everything came to a standstill. I was set to debut in the world premiere of "Kinky Boots" in French with Just for Laughs in Montreal, and right in the first year of my recovery, I found myself alone and reflecting. This period allowed me to take control of my life and learn how to face my emotions instead of numbing them.

I came to realize that emotions are powerful indicators of what I still needed to work on. For a long time, I thought there would come a moment when I’d feel fully healed, but now I understand that recovery is not a destination; it’s a lifelong journey.

My sensitivity, which I once viewed as a weakness, now fuels my creativity, making me a more powerful songwriter. I often say that every song I write is more profound than it appears at first glance.

I’ve grown to enjoy navigating those gray areas—because let's be honest, the all-or-nothing mindset isn't sustainable in the long run. To anyone who's striving to find creative healing through hardship, I want to say how admirable it is just to try! I've met countless amazing artists and individuals over the past five years who have bravely chosen to put themselves out there.

There’s something so honorable about the pursuit of self-improvement and creativity, and I believe that every effort counts. My musical journey, alongside my endeavours in writing my first book and building a speaking business, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my life.

Creating something from nothing is inspiring, and I hope it inspires others on similar paths. Finding your voice can take time, but it’s empowerment in itself. Grant yourself permission to seek your purpose, and remember that validation must come from within. The more creative you allow yourself to be, the better equipped you’ll be to express your emotions in a healthy way.

This newfound ability to show up fully prepared for life’s vital moments is so liberating. I hope that anyone seeking creative healing feels a sense of wholeness again. That feeling of being whole is what allows us to step into new journeys and levels, whether in our careers or personal lives.

After all, music is universal—it resonates with everyone, across all walks of life. It's fascinating that I've had a few colleagues comment on my journey and the shifts I've made; it really highlights that we're all interconnected through creative expression, and I believe that when we embrace it, we invite others to do the same.

My single "Silent Roads" is a reflection of a particularly chaotic chapter in my life, where late nights often led me to strange motels with even stranger company. It was during these unpredictable moments, often at 4 AM, that I would find myself lost in thoughts about my dreams of singing and songwriting. There’s something powerfully raw about those reflections, encapsulating the essence of longing and aspiration amid chaos. I'm excited to turn those tumultuous experiences into something beautiful—a song that resonates not just with me, but possibly with anyone who has felt lost.

This track has morphed from a haunting reality into an anthem of survival and resilience. It’s about transforming the struggle into art, and I couldn’t be prouder of that journey.

Check out the music video—it’s visually stunning and captures the essence of the song perfectly! It’s an epic representation of that crossover from darkness into light, and I hope it strikes a chord with everyone who’s ever walked a silent road of their own.

You’re about to move to France to join the Royal Palace team—what are you most excited for in this next chapter, and how do you see it influencing your upcoming music and writing?

I can hardly believe it—I'm moving to France this July! This opportunity came out of nowhere, and I’m beyond excited and incredibly grateful. As a Canadian, being able to work abroad not only enhances my skills as a performer but also enriches my creativity.

The experiences that await me in France are unlike anything I’ve encountered in Montreal or even Las Vegas, where I had the joy of performing for audiences week after week.

What truly excites me about joining the Royal Palace team is the chance to collaborate with such talented artists who maintain the highest standards.

Each year, the production changes, which keeps the environment invigorating and alive. It’s a unique aspect of working there that I absolutely love—everyone must re-audition every year, fostering a competitive yet healthy atmosphere where artists are dedicated to their craft.

I’m particularly thrilled to work alongside the genius choreographer Nathan Clarke. His modern approach to entertainment, paired with his ability to maintain grace and relatability, is truly inspiring. His credentials speak for themselves—having choreographed the 2012 Olympic Games opening and closing ceremonies, alongside working with phenomenal acts like One Direction, Rihanna, Coldplay, Jay-Z, Jessie J, and Naomi Campbell. Just the thought of learning from him fills me with excitement!

Being in one place for an extended period is also a big draw for me. I’m eager to immerse myself in this role, with hopes of moving up to singer/dancer and embracing the growth opportunities that Royal Palace offers. Plus, I'm thrilled to share my journey with international artists and foster new connections.

After signing a second book deal, I’m also looking forward to dedicating time to my writing as I navigate this incredible chapter.

Working with Jérémy Amelin, the director at Royal Palace, really amplifies my excitement. He has an outstanding background as a singer in productions like Dirty Dancing, Notre Dame de Paris, and has also participated in the hit TV show Star Academy 5 in France.

Collaborating with such international talent in an atmosphere ripe for creative expression is exactly the environment I believe will help me flourish as a multidisciplinary artist and singer-songwriter.

This journey feels like the perfect blend of my passions, and I can’t wait to see how it influences my upcoming music and writing. I’m ready to embrace every moment and soak in the inspiration that comes from this vibrant new world!

Stay tuned; there’s so much more to come!

Your upcoming memoir, The Art of Starting Over, hints at a powerful message of rebirth. What do you hope readers—and listeners—take away from your story of transformation?

Oh wow, my journey to publishing my first book has been quite the adventure, and honestly, I can't wait to share it with everyone!

Writing this memoir has been a long time coming and serves as a vital chapter of my identity—not just as a keynote speaker, but as a person who has walked a unique path. I wanted this book to symbolize my starting point, laying out my values and what I truly stand for.

Initially, I aimed to share the lessons I’ve learned during my first five years of sobriety, but as I dove deeper into the writing, it blossomed into something far more expansive.

The Art of Starting Over speaks to that universal experience we all go through—rebirth isn’t only about overcoming substance abuse; it can manifest in countless ways, like navigating a divorce, relocating to a new city, losing friendships, or facing the loss of loved ones.

As I wrote each chapter, it became clear that while I'm still young, life has already thrown me some significant lessons. I’m profoundly grateful for the second chance to pursue my dreams wholeheartedly, pouring my energy into my art.

I hope that readers and listeners take away this crucial message of transformation: everyone faces moments when we have to make a choice. You can either embrace the bright side of life or get swept away in the tide of just going through the motions.

I genuinely believe that deep down, we all aspire to live extraordinary lives, but the desire for that often comes with personal standards and obligations that can feel overwhelming. I remember when I was actively using; I was just a shell of who I could be—far from my full potential.

Now, as I step into the next chapter of my life, I’m performing and embracing opportunities I never dreamed would come my way at this point in my journey. It’s thrilling, and I’m very thankful my body is ready for it all. Yet, let's be real: it takes hard work! Some things don’t come naturally for me, but with the right mindset and I’ll get it done.

I want readers to understand that being in the wrong environment can make you shrink, holding you back from your true self. The past five years have flown by, and they’ve led me to finally find myself.

I’ve given myself permission to explore, to fail, and ultimately, to grow. Not every attempt will yield success on the first try, and that's perfectly okay! I hope everyone who picks up this book remembers to be gentle with themselves throughout their journeys. We are all masterpieces in progress, and sometimes, embracing the messiness is where the beauty lies! I can’t wait for you to join me on this journey of discovery and transformation!

There will come a time when we realize we can’t wait any longer. I truly hope everyone takes action on their dreams because you have the power to create the life you’ve always envisioned. That's exactly what I'm doing right now, and I wish for everyone to follow through on their passions. Together, we can make it happen—let’s go! Next Stop: France.