With over three decades of experience in rock and an unshakable commitment to the live show, Josh Todd, frontman of Buckcherry, has plenty to say about the band’s latest album, Roar Like Thunder. We caught up with Josh to talk about the creative process, working with longtime producer Marty Frederickson, the influence of recovery, and the raw power behind the band’s newest release.
On the New Album: Roar Like Thunder
Capital Chaos TV: You’ve called Roar Like Thunder a rocking record from beginning to end. What track do you think best captures that energy?
Josh Todd:
“Probably the title track—’We Roar Like Thunder.’ It’s a barn burner, a lot of fun, and it sets the tone for the whole record.”
On Working with Marty Frederickson
Capital Chaos TV: You’ve worked with Marty for years. What does he bring to the table that no one else can?
Josh:
“His experience. Marty is always writing with multiple artists, and he’s just incredibly talented. We’ve known each other since 2005, and we all focus on what’s best for the song. That makes the process really smooth.”
Going Global with the New Record
Capital Chaos TV: With Roar Like Thunder being released on three different labels globally, how do you connect with international fans?
Josh:
“By showing up and playing live. That’s how we built our reputation from the beginning. There’s nothing like experiencing the reaction of fans around the world in person.”
The Next Generation: Evan Frederickson’s Role
Capital Chaos TV: Evan Frederickson contributed to this album too. How did his presence shape the vibe?
Josh:
“Evan’s incredibly talented, just like his dad. He’s been with us on the last three records and brings a lot to the table—multi-instrumentalist, great engineer, sharp ear. It’s been great having him as part of the team.”
Sobriety and Mental Health
Capital Chaos TV: You’ve been open about your recovery journey. How has sobriety shaped your approach to life?
Josh:
“It’s my greatest asset. Without it, none of this would be possible. I’ve been sober for over 30 years now and am still very active in AA. When I got in, I was at rock bottom. I took a leap of faith, and it changed my life.”
Life in the Studio
Capital Chaos TV: What’s a typical day like when you’re recording with Marty in Nashville?
Josh:
“I warm up, then hit the studio at a set time. I’ve got about two solid hours where I can give everything vocally—lead, doubles, harmonies. After that, I’m done. It’s intense but productive.”
On the Track “Talking About Sex”
Capital Chaos TV: There’s a song called “Talking About Sex.” Was that one fun or risky to record?
Josh:
“It’s not risky—it’s about Cardi B! Originally, it was called I Love It When You Flex, but we switched back to the original title. The song was inspired by watching the Wham! documentary. I was blown away by George Michael’s talent. I wanted to write a ‘sex song’ in that same spirit.”
Working with Both Generations in the Studio
Capital Chaos TV: How does working with Evan compare to working with Marty?
Josh:
“They’re a great team—father and son. Evan’s like a carbon copy of Marty talent-wise. Sometimes Marty would be in one studio, Evan in another, and I’d bounce between them. It made everything super efficient.”
What He Hopes Fans Feel
Capital Chaos TV: What do you hope fans feel the first time they press play on Roar Like Thunder?
Josh:
“I hope they leave it on till the end. That’s how you know it’s exciting and fun.”
Fan Favorites vs. Band Favorites
Capital Chaos TV: Was there a moment in the studio when you thought, “Fans are going to love this”?
Josh:
“You never know. Sometimes you think one song’s a hit, but fans connect with something else. What I love and what the audience loves can be totally different.”
Off-Stage in Nashville
Capital Chaos TV: Did you do anything fun outside the studio that fans might enjoy hearing about?
Josh:
“Nope, it’s all business. I go back to my hotel and work on lyrics and melodies. It’s not glamorous—it’s work until the album’s done.”
Looking Ahead on Tour
Capital Chaos TV: Are there any tour stops you’re especially excited about?
Josh:
“We haven’t been back to Japan in a while, so I’m looking forward to that. Touring internationally is great because you experience new cultures and totally different audiences.”
On Recovery Slogans
Capital Chaos TV: Do you have a favorite recovery slogan?
Josh:
“Yeah—’Fake it till you make it.’ When I first got sober, I didn’t understand spirituality at all. My sponsor told me to pray anyway. Eventually, I had a spiritual experience, and it changed everything.”
The Importance of Anonymity
Capital Chaos TV: Anonymity in recovery isn’t as emphasized as it once was. What’s your take?
Josh:
“For some people, it’s still important. But I’m an open book. If talking about it helps someone get sober, that’s worth it. I respect everyone’s choice.”
Capital Chaos TV:
Josh, thanks for your time and all the years of great music. We’ll see you out on the road.
Josh Todd:
Thank you, man.
Upcoming 2025 Tour Dates – Roar Like Thunder World Tour
United States:
- May 30 – Dallas, TX – House of Blues
- June 1 – Atlanta, GA – The Masquerade
- June 3 – Chicago, IL – House of Blues
- June 6 – Denver, CO – Summit Music Hall
- June 8 – Los Angeles, CA – The Belasco Theater
Europe:
- July 3 – London, UK – O2 Academy Islington
- July 5 – Paris, France – Le Trianon
- July 7 – Berlin, Germany – Huxleys Neue Welt
- July 10 – Milan, Italy – Alcatraz
About Buckcherry:
Buckcherry is a multi-platinum rock band formed in 1995, known for hits like “Lit Up,” “Crazy Bitch,” and “Sorry.” With 10 studio albums under their belt, the band continues to deliver high-octane performances and unapologetic rock anthems around the globe.
Categories: Buck Cherry, Interviews
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