Nico Tortorella Explores Fatherhood in Depth in Debut Album, “Born.”
Photo Credit: Bronson Farr
Actor, advocate, author, and now singer-songwriter, Nico Tortorella is ready to serenade the world with the release of his debut album, "Born." His wife's pregnancy, the birth of their daughter, and the transformative experience of fatherhood are some of the driving elements that boosted the conception of this stunning nine-track piece.
Nico Tortorella, known for his captivating roles in shows like "Younger" and "The Walking Dead: World Beyond," is no stranger to taking on new challenges. His artistic spirit found a new outlet last year while filming Apple TV+’s "City on Fire," where he played the frontman of the show's fictional band, Ex Post Facto. The experience of recording and performing original music ignited a passion within him, leading him to pursue his own musical journey.
Despite being involved in the recording of the show’s soundtrack, none of the tracks could have prepared us for what he had in store as a singer-songwriter. Nico Tortorella’s debut album, "Born" is poised to be more than just catchy tunes. Described as a cosmic dance where music and birth intertwine, it promises a deeply intimate exploration of fatherhood. The title track itself was originally envisioned as the soundtrack for their home birth, a detail that is pretty clear about the raw and emotional core of the project.
The lead single, "Grapefruit," is already generating buzz, it is a fascinating mix of passionate vocals and playful energy, with surprising elements of R&B and ethereal synths that evoke feelings of nostalgia. From this opening track, we get the sense that he is willing to erase the limits of the genre to express his deepest emotions. Another remarkable song is “Done and Up,” a high-energy track featuring heavy beats, synths, and tempo changes, perfect for getting pumped up.
Photo Credit: Bronson Farr
Tortorella’s artistry is not limited to energetic songs, rather, he is willing to bare his soul, and voice, naked. In “Kilmer Dove,” Nico Tortorella delivers a tender ballad driven by a melancholic piano. His vocals sweetly blend with violin strings, and his clear falsetto creates a captivating soundscape that immerses you in an emotional lullaby. There was one track that was impossible to predict, though. The album throws a delightful curveball with its final track, "La Santa Madre." This unexpected gem is sung entirely in Spanish, showcasing Tortorella’s vocal versatility with a flamenco-like delivery. The sound surrounds you and creates a scenario that feels sacred and monumental, perfectly complementing the song's lyrics about the importance of the maternal figure.
"Born." arrives just days after the release of Nico Tortorella's first children's book, "Olivette Is You," which encourages young readers to embrace their full potential. This focus on self-discovery and living authentically seems to be a thread running through Tortorella’s recent creative endeavors, culminating in the release of "Born."
With his established acting career and the critical acclaim for his vocals, expectations are high for Nico Tortorella's musical debut. "Born." feels specially crafted for those willing to explore the depths of daily miracles through music. "Born." promises to be a powerful and relatable exploration of fatherhood, wrapped in a diverse and engaging musical tapestry that will touch the hearts of listeners everywhere.
STAY IN TOUCH WITH NICO TORTORELLA ON INSTAGRAM