Exclusives
From Dock Bars to National Tours: Luke Borchelt Reflects on Music, Life, and New Beginnings (Exclusive)
Emerging singer-songwriter Luke Borchelt is making waves as the opening act for Shaboozey on his highly anticipated Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going tour. Known for his unique blend of country storytelling with the rhythmic influences of his DMV roots, Borchelt’s captivating performances and heartfelt lyrics have already earned him a dedicated following. This tour marks a significant milestone in his career, allowing him to bring his distinctive sound to a broader audience across the country.
Wrapping up his role as the direct support at Irving Plaza in New York recently, Luke reflects on the impact of this journey: “It’s humbling that Shaboozey is willing to share his fans with me and give me an opportunity to play. He has single-handedly changed my life.”
As the tour concludes, Luke has found streaming success with singles like “Every Rain” and his latest release, “Itchin’.” Co-written with Warren Russell, who also produced the track, “Itchin’” represents a new chapter for Borchelt as a solo artist. Reflecting on the song, Luke shares, “Itchin’ is trying to make sense of what I was feeling before I left New York a year ago. I didn’t know much, just that my heart wanted to move home and give music one final shot. I’m a Maryland boy, that’s all I’ll ever be. If anyone needs me, they can find me out here on the Chesapeake.”
With this tour under his belt, Luke is already gearing up for the next adventure as he joins Medium Build on select dates. His music, described as a “journal” for processing life’s events, often explores themes of relationships and personal experiences grounded in his Maryland upbringing. For Luke, songwriting follows the principles of “show, don’t tell,” always striving to create songs that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.
From heartfelt moments at the merch table to testing out Shaboozey’s iconic “Cowboys Live Forever” chain, Luke’s journey is one of gratitude, growth, and camaraderie. Here’s what he had to say about life on tour, his evolving sound, and the lessons he’s picked up along the way.
How does touring with Shaboozey differ from other shows/tours that you’ve been a part of?
This was my first tour ever! It’s hard to compare to the dock bars in Maryland.
You and Shaboozey are from the same area; the DMV. How did the local music scene, when you were growing up, influence your style and career?
Marcus K. Dowling once told me, “I knew you were from the DMV when I saw you. If you’re trying to do something from where we’re from and it isn’t airtight, especially how you dress, no one will take you seriously.”
As an artist from the DMV area, what challenges did you face as an artists, and how have you overcome those challenges? The only challenge you face is trying to understand the industry side. You need people you can trust to put that stuff in vernacular. Shaboozey, Jackson Dean and Good Charlotte have walked me through the maze of music business out of the goodness of their hearts, loving artists from back home.
How was engaging fans during the tour, both on and off stage?
There’s nothing better than meeting people at the merch table. I’m a hugger, I hope they could see how grateful I was to be there.
Was there anything you were hoping to learn from this experience? If so, did you?
I learned that there are people at the venue that will help you unload the van and set up. It felt wrong!
Your music has a very unique sound. How would you describe you style and what artists or genres have influenced you?
Thank you. We’ve been calling it “Crab Country,” the Raised Rowdy guys gave me that moniker. It’s everything I like put into a meat grinder, I hope. I’m just a fan at the end of the day.
How did the opportunity to open for Shaboozey come to be, and what was your initial reaction when you found out?
We’ve been friends since April, Shaboozey has a heart for artists from the DMV and a passion to give them a smooth path. I just knew that my life was going to change when I got that call.
Touring can be a rollercoaster of emotions. How did you stay grounded during this high stress time
Raw honey, a strong partner, a photographer that made us laugh, and Warren Russell. Warren and I have been chasing this dream together since we were in high school. When I see him next to me on stage, I know we’re good.
Can you share any of your favorite memories from behind the scenes with Shaboozey?
Dear Lord, he let me test drive his “Cowboys Live Forever” chain after the show in Chicago (I begged). I have never been more scared, I felt like I had the Mona Lisa hanging around my neck. I don’t know who was sweating more, me or the security.
How did this tour experience influence your music and your approach to performing live?
You can get a lot done in 20 minutes.
0 comments