By Ryan Bazinet
For an artist known for confronting the darker side of society and politics, Rourke’s new rock single “It’s My Time” is surprisingly personal and positive.
It’s also authentically Rourke.
The song begins with acoustic guitar and piano, soon joined by a church organ. Rourke’s raspy and earnest voice sings out the song’s thesis, “It’s my time to lose my disguise / Censor my lies / Draw back the blinds.” Drums and bass join in on the mantra-like refrain.
Better days, better days, better days, better days
I’ll find a new way
For the Los Angeles native Rourke, the move toward positivity was intentional. He says, “I wanted a song that just kind of turned the corner from darkness to light.”
“It’s My Time” is the eighth track on the album Starstruck, released this past June. Like the other songs on the record, “It’s My Time” was produced by Alan Damien at his Sherman Oaks studio, and received all-star instrumental support from Rami Jaffee (keyboards) of Foo Fighters.
Rourke took inspiration for the song from a number of sources, including a 1987 acoustic concert by Guns ‘N Roses at the famed NYC rock club CBGB’s, and Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror.” Like the GNR show, the song is raw, real, and authentic. Like “Man in the Mirror,” it’s about realizing the only thing holding you back is yourself.
Rourke says, “It’s kind of about me facing my demons and trying to find a better way for myself.”
It’s a message that many will relate to. The idea of reflecting on past mistakes and building a better future will resonate with anyone struggling with issues like anger, self-esteem, addiction, poor relationships, or any number of personal challenges. The song is for anyone seeking “better days,” and to “find a new way.”
With “It’s My Time” rounding out the single releases off of Starstruck, Rourke isn’t standing still. He is planning to record live performance videos to promote the album on social media. While the artist admits he is uncomfortable in the spotlight, he is taking his own advice and stepping out from behind the curtain. As he sings in “It’s My Time,” “I won’t be afraid.”
Rourke creates all of the album artwork as well, including the powerful cover image of a tattered American flag draped over a razor wire fence. More artworks are planned for rollout over the summer through the artist’s social channels.
“It’s My Time” is streaming everywhere, with promotional support from Starlight PR. Listen now, and follow Rourke at the links below.
