Alex Runions is a romantic castaway in his lovelorn new single On An Island — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
A contemplative examination of loneliness in a fading relationship, On An Island is the first single to arrive from the Saskatoon singer-songwriter’s upcoming third album. Written by Runions and the song’s producer, Chris Burke-Gaffney (MacKenzie Porter, Chantal Kreviazuk), On An Island uses raw and emotive vocals with steel guitar, bass, and drums to bring Americana, roots, and subtle pop elements to the artist’s familiar country voice.
“Relationships can start off being beautiful and fulfilling, before evolving into growing emotional distance despite the semblance of intimacy,” says Runions. “As co-writers, Chris and I wanted to look at what that sense of isolation feels like when — despite your best intentions — you’re floating further away from the person you love. It was important for the production to match the vulnerability of the lyrics, so Chris used his expertise to make the music deliberately understated and moody.”
Runions’ first new music in two years, On An Island arrives after numerous highlights for the artist — including two albums, a number of charting radio singles (including 2020’s Top 50 hit Middle Of A Country Song, recognition from the Saskatchewan Country Music Association Awards (including 2016 wins for Male Vocalist, Fans’ Choice and Entertainer Of The Year), and performances at The Grey Cup and the CCMA Awards Week Songwriters’ Series. Most recently, Runions was named a semi-finalist in the 2023 Unsigned Only Music Competition for his future single Settling Up.
In the wake of these accomplishments, recent shifts in his personal life — he’s a new husband and father — have led Runions down a new creative path that blends country, Americana and roots, prioritizing genuine artistry over conventional expectations. “My music has always been a reflection of my place in life as an artist and a human,” he says. “With where I am today, expressing my journey the only way I know how — as a singer-songwriter — is more important than hitting any commercial milestones. On An Island is the first example of this new mindset and I couldn’t be prouder to share it.”
Check out On An Island above, hear more from Alex Runions below, read his 2020 20 Questions interview HERE, and sail over to his Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Twitter.
