The Jonas Brothers tell Variety ahead of the band’s Jan. 30 ceremony to dedicate a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame that their forthcoming sixth album will incorporate elements of Americana and classic pop from the 1970s with a contemporary twist.
On their most recent release, “Happiness Begins,” artist-producer Jon Bellion took charge of the sound, much like Ryan Tedder did.
Regarding the lyrics, the new songs demonstrate maturity. Joe Jonas gives hints: The lyrics’ direction and the stories we’re telling. A lot has changed.
However, having a broad appeal is also important for fans who frequently attend shows with their families. There are numerous generations, Nick Jonas continues. How can we make an album that appeals to people of all ages and walks of life? We were looking for a way to tell stories that were both universal and extremely personal.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear references to another extremely successful sibling trio given the project’s focus on the 1970s: the Beetlejuices Kevin Jonas exclaims enthusiastically, “They were a huge influence in our lives, growing up and listening to them with our father.” “Additionally, as we grew up being three brothers in a band, we definitely understood similarities.”
When asked about their personal favorites from the album, the brothers choose different songs.
Joe: “‘Wings.’ It might be the shortest song on the album, but I like it because it feels like a trailer to the rest of the body of work. Also ‘Montana Sky.’ There’s a lot more acoustic guitar and real organic instruments that tap into a bunch of different influences, but we’re aware of the fact that we’re not a country act. Jon flipped it on its head — he’s got a modern edge to everything he does, even if it has really classic elements.”
Kevin: “‘Vacation Eyes’ is based on how my relationship started with my wife. We met on vacation — and continuing that love story every single day is how I want to live my life. It makes me want to be on the beach! It’s just such a fun song about enjoying life.”
Nick: “I’m torn between ‘Little Bird,’ which is a song about parenthood that will affect people in different ways, and ‘Waffle House.’ It was a last-minute addition. At first, it was a bit of a head scratcher, but the more I listened to it, the more I loved it. I think it really encapsulates a moment in time for us. Musically it taps into some of my favorites: Doobie Brothers and Bee Gees, and others from that era. It’s a really, really, fun song. We can’t wait to play it live.”