Loving On Empty

It's rare for anyone to expect a warm and gentle hug from a complete stranger, but that's what most people get when they meet Dan Godlin for the first time. Though his most noticeable attribute may be his crimson-red hair, it's Dan's contagious personality that goes hand in hand with his sound. His genuine desire to connect with people is shown through a body of work filled with earnest lyrics, relaxed melodies, and distinctive stories that anybody can relate to. Those who know him can't help but notice the old soul and spirit infused within his musical brand. It's not the familiar face that draws them in, but the familiar feeling. With his rugged brown boots and Levi jeans, Dan carries with him remnants of a southern style. Born in Houston, Texas, Dan stays true to some of these country roots despite growing up in a small Boston suburb. He remembers riding shotgun in his Dad's beat-up Jeep Wrangler, singing along to John Cougar classics like 'Small Town.' At 12, and already driving the rustic two-door around the block, he fantasized about hearing his own music blasting through the car radio. 'There was something euphoric about gunning that stick shift into gear, feeling every little bump on the pavement, and pretending to be a rock star,' says Dan. The innocence of his youth inspired him to write from a place of confidence, passion, and exhilaration, which are all apparent themes in Dan's tracks. A rough and tough captain of his high school football team, Dan also enjoyed sneaking off to a quiet, comfortable place to write and record. While sports served as a physical outlet, Dan explored his more sensitive side by writing a handful of songs that dealt with his struggle between being a popular jock and a reclusive songwriter. Dan always had a hard time switching gears from being the strong and aggressive athlete to the kind, laid-back musician. This struggle was most apparent when Dan was voted his football team's MVP and class superlative's 'Most Huggable' during his senior year. Challenged to find the middle ground, Dan felt compelled to commit to one identity. After being scouted by a few Ivy League schools to play football, he was inspired to make a life changing decision. Agonizing over it for months, he finally decided to follow his musical path; and it became clear to Dan that he made the right move. He quickly dropped the shoulder pads, picked up his guitar, and went after his true identity. Dan writes about the uncertainty of love. His debut album Loving On Empty represents the positive and negative consequences of navigating through different levels of intimacy. Catchy and current, Dan's songs have a unique and profound meaning to them. Influenced by such acts as Aerosmith, Bruce Springsteen, and the Goo Goo Dolls, Dan drew inspiration from the diverse Pop Rock sounds of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. These bands provided Dan with an emotional escape, which fueled his desire to write songs that would evoke similar emotions in other people. He writes from a perspective of angst and frustration, but also empathy and compassion. After hearing Loving On Empty and understanding his journey, it almost feels as though you've known Dan for years. You may even feel tempted to return the hug.