In a dialogue with Atwood Magazine, The Fray share insights into their journey as a band, their brotherly bond, and the significance of the 20th anniversary of their influential album, ‘How to Save a Life.’
"My Heart’s a Crowded Room" – The Fray
One remarkable aspect of music is its capacity to evolve with you and profoundly influence your life. A song or album can accompany you through many years or even your entire life. The way it impacts you as a teenager can resonate the same way a decade later. At times, a piece can strike you quite differently, altering your understanding and perception of its message. This is the beauty of music; it lingers, touches your spirit, and calls for comprehension.
In 2005, The Fray launched their debut album, How to Save a Life. The album, lasting 45 minutes, encompassed 12 songs, including “Over My Head (Cable Car),” “Look After You,” and the 5X Platinum title track. This record set the stage for their career and quickly became the backdrop for many cherished TV shows, films, and rainy road trips. With poignant lyrics and a distinctive alt-rock sound, The Fray resonated with an entire generation in a unique, intimate manner. They had a talent for capturing the essence of human emotions, providing comfort, and making listeners feel understood and less isolated. Today, the album holds a 4X Platinum certification from the RIAA, and as the band approaches its 20th anniversary, they reflect on what those formative years meant to them and their present situation.
The Fray’s iconic album, ‘How to Save a Life,’ celebrates two decades this year.
“If it weren’t for what this band signifies to other people, there would be no essence to this whole endeavor,” states Ben Wysocki, the drummer for The Fray. “It would merely be us chasing our own ambitions, which would fizzle out quickly.”
To commemorate the legendary record, The Fray—now consisting of Wysocki, Joe King, and Dave Welsh—are hitting the road with the "How to Save a Life: The 20th Anniversary Tour." Kicking off on July 25 in Dallas, TX, this global tour will allow fans to relive the music they fell in love with in the early 2000s. Additionally, the tour will include new music from the band. “This year, it was particularly important for us to release new music alongside a retrospective look back at the past, aiming for these two aspects to present a complete picture of how we represent ourselves now,” Wysocki explains.
On July 18, the band unveiled their latest single, “My Heart’s a Crowded Room.” Following the 2024 release of The Fray Is Back EP, which marked their first project in almost ten years, this track signifies a new phase for the band, though they remain connected to their roots. Centered around a love story, the song carries a hopeful vibe with lyrics reflecting the emotional depth the world has come to associate with the band. While it brings a fresh perspective, it beautifully intertwines with their earlier sound, merging generations of music.
“The older songs we haven’t performed in 15 years are just as representative of us as this brand-new one that we composed 15 days ago,” Wysocki notes.
However, what has consistently held importance for The Fray is their audience. They prioritize fan engagement in everything they undertake. Their mission began—and continues—around creating music for people to connect with. Wysocki elaborated on how their music tends to develop its own life. The band sees themselves more as messengers.
“The most extreme case being the song, ‘How to Save a Life,’” he states. “Eventually, that was no longer about us. It shifted away from us rather quickly. We were simply meant to convey that to others. It’s more about them, their journey, and their connection to that song and its narrative. We strive to facilitate that the best we can and allow it to take its course.”
The Fray has evolved alongside their fans, consistently pulling at heartstrings. They epitomize nostalgia and exemplify the significance of music to individuals. Below, they reflect on the influence of their first album, their current status, and the essential role their fans have played throughout the past twenty years.
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:: stream/purchase My Heart’s a Crowded Room here ::
:: connect with The Fray here ::
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“How to Save a Life” (Live From Summerfest) – The Fray
The Fray “My Heart’s a Crowded Room” © Robby Klein
A CONVERSATION WITH THE FRAY
Atwood Magazine: You’re embarking on a tour shortly for the 20th anniversary of How to Save a Life. What does this
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In an interview with Atwood Magazine, The Fray discuss their journey as a band, their sense of brotherhood, and the two decades since the release of their iconic album, ‘How to Save a Life.’