Patrick van Zandwijk, the creative mastermind behind the musical phenomenon known as TuskHead, has taken the music scene by storm. His journey to prominence began with a bang, marked by two chart-topping hits in the Gelderse Top 20 of 2022 in the Netherlands, courtesy of 3 Voor 12 Gelderland. This was just the first step in a series of accomplishments that would solidify his place in the industry.
TuskHead’s musical prowess didn’t go unnoticed, as he secured a coveted spot on Spotify’s ‘Route Americana’ playlist, exposing his talent to a broader audience. In 2023, he sealed the deal with a prestigious endorsement from Vintage Guitars, a partnership that would influence his future work significantly.
The artist’s global musical adventure took him across the United States, where he collaborated with platinum-record-winning songwriter Josh Morningstar in Nashville. The outcome of this collaboration was nothing short of astounding—a collection of jaw-dropping tracks, brought to life with the help of two skilled session musicians from the renowned band The Texas Gentlemen. These tracks were recorded at the illustrious Modern Electric in Dallas, setting the stage for a much-anticipated release in December/January.
As TuskHead returns to the Netherlands, he is gearing up for a winter tour that will coincide with the release of ‘Breaking the Man,’ a track that’s set to captivate audiences worldwide and pave the way for his Dallas-recorded musical saga.
TuskHead’s single, “Breaking the Man,” is a testament to his undeniable talent as a musician. Released on October 13th, 2023, “Breaking the Man” is more than just a song; it’s an auditory experience that takes you on a profound and emotionally charged journey. This anthemic Americana/alt-country masterpiece is a testament to TuskHead’s exceptional musical prowess and his unique ability to create a captivating narrative through music.
The song opens with a gentle, melancholic strum of a Vintage Guitar, setting the tone for what’s to come. The acoustic guitar work throughout the track is nothing short of masterful. It weaves a delicate, yet powerful narrative, creating a sense of longing and introspection. TuskHead’s partnership with Vintage Guitars in mid-2023 adds a unique dimension to the song, infusing it with a distinct and memorable quality.
The soul-stirring sounds of the accordion and pedal steel introduce a layer of emotional depth that is hard to ignore. These instruments don’t merely accompany the main guitar; they become integral storytellers in their own right, tugging at your heartstrings with each note. The arrangement is meticulous, with every instrument working in harmony to create a rich, textured soundscape.
The lyrics of “Breaking the Man” delve into the raw struggle against illness, shining a light on the profound impact it has on one’s sense of self, relationships, and faith. TuskHead’s storytelling prowess is evident as he paints a vivid picture of a soul in turmoil, seeking solace and understanding.
Lines like “You know that I’m hurting, I’m not alright, The pills they should fix me but I’m losing the fight from myself; I need help” cut straight to the heart of the matter. The raw vulnerability of these lyrics is haunting and relatable, allowing listeners to connect with the song on a deeply personal level.
TuskHead’s vocals are the soul of the track. His voice carries a unique blend of vulnerability and strength, perfectly encapsulating the emotional weight of the lyrics. With each word, you can feel the pain, the desperation, and the yearning for help. His emotional delivery is nothing short of breathtaking, evoking a wide range of feelings in the listener.
“Breaking the Man” is a musical masterpiece that immerses the listener in a world of raw emotion and profound storytelling. The song is a true testament to TuskHead’s talent as a musician, a lyricist, and a storyteller. It’s not just a song; it’s an emotional journey that resonates long after the final note fades. TuskHead’s ability to express deep feelings and convey them to the listener is a rare and remarkable quality, making this song an absolute must-listen for anyone seeking music that moves the soul and lingers in the heart.
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