Adam Douglas shows genuine feelings in new soulful single, reflecting on today’s polarized political climate
In the new single "Be The Bad Guy," which is out today, Douglas offers goosebump-inducing retro blues tones, an impressive vocal performance, soulful organ, smooth harmonies, and a powerful brass section.

Adam Douglas is out with a new single today - "Be The Bad Guy" is a track that tackles a highly relevant topic within a retro yet timeless musical landscape. The song began with a very specific issue that is close to Douglas's heart. As an American citizen, it is difficult not to be affected by the political, polarized climate that is causing enormous division in his homeland. However, the song is written in a way that the emotions described can be applied to many different life situations—an issue that resonates with many. He explains:
- ´Be The Bad Guy' is actually a very personal song, written as a form of self-therapy and analysis. No one wants to be 'the bad guy'—no one wants to deliver bad news or confront someone with 'an intervention.' How do you start a political conversation with someone who holds completely different views? This is something I feel more and more these days, especially with the American election campaign in full swing. The world is increasingly polarized, making it even harder to open up for dialogue.
"I don't wanna be the bad guy. The message never makes it through; so, why try? But what use is silence, if silence means losing your mind?"
Given the heavy theme, it was all the more important for Douglas to create a soft and warm musical packaging. It’s an emotional Douglas singing, baring his soul both musically and lyrically. The track is a timeless rhythm and blues/soul piece, wrapped in an uplifting power package that gradually builds in intensity up to the final climax; Adam Douglas's voice in full force, marked by frustration. Adam reflects on the recording process:
- The recording was very organic and very 'classic,' if you ask me. Beautiful backing vocals from Ida Helena Brynildsen and sensitive brass lines from Magnus Bakken and Marius Henriksen-Haltli. As always, the rhythm section was recorded live, to capture the most honest performance. I hope and believe that listeners can relate and not feel alone. No one wants to be 'the bad guy,' but sometimes we all have to be.
Douglas made his solo debut in 2015 with the album "I May Never Learn." However, it wasn’t until he participated in and won "Stjernekamp" on NRK in 2017 that he truly captured the hearts of the Norwegian people. The following year, he released the critically acclaimed album "The Beauty & The Brawn" and has since toured extensively. In March 2021, he released the studio album "Better Angels," and last fall, he released his fourth album, "Dancing for the Moon"—a diverse record that garnered much positive attention, showcasing Douglas's unique ability as an artist to write and convey in an authentic and poignant manner.
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Grappa Musikkforlag was established in 1983, and is the oldest and largest independent record company in Norway. Home of many prestigious labels including Hubro, Simax Classics, Odin, Blue Mood, Heilo, Barneselskapet and Grappa label. Close collaborations with other strong indies, including Rune Grammofon and Drabant. A wide variety of genres includes jazz, folk, classical, contemporary, pop, rock, blues, singer/songwriter – all from Norwegian artists of the highest quality.

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