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For The Rigs’ frontman, TJ Stafford, music is more than just melodies and chords—it’s an expression of his soul, a mirror into his inner struggles, triumphs, and transformations. Over the years, Stafford has evolved from being part of a collaborative band to launching his solo career, where he explores new sounds, themes, and styles while continuing his fearless pursuit of vulnerability in his art.
In a recent interview with Variance Magazine, TJ opened up about his journey, discussing his new solo release "The World's Gonna Love Me", and how stepping out on his own has allowed him to explore even deeper emotional territory.
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TJ Stafford’s career is one of continuous evolution. As the driving force behind The Rigs, he already had a reputation for penning deeply emotional, cinematic tracks that found a home in shows like The Walking Dead and The Affair. However, his solo work takes a new direction, blending alternative rock with pop sensibilities and adding even more personal layers to his songwriting.
His solo single, "The World's Gonna Love Me", embodies this change. A defiant, empowering anthem, the song exudes confidence, yet it also comes from a place of deep introspection. The track, with its infectious beats and bold lyrics, is about reclaiming power and stepping into one’s true self, something TJ has been working toward for years(Variance Magazine)(Atwood Magazine).
What makes Stafford’s work so compelling, both with The Rigs and in his solo career, is his ability to embrace vulnerability. In the interview, he reflects on the importance of being honest with himself and his audience. “I want to be seen, but I also want to be vulnerable. There’s a tension there, but it’s necessary to create something real,” he shared in his interview(Variance Magazine).
That tension is palpable in his music. Whether he’s exploring themes of surrender in The Rigs’ "White Flag" or singing about inner strength in "The World's Gonna Love Me", TJ’s work is always emotionally raw, drawing listeners in with its authenticity.
As he steps further into the spotlight as a solo artist, Stafford is clear about his direction. He’s focused on creating music that reflects his personal growth and isn’t afraid to tackle difficult subjects. His new music moves beyond the introspective alt-rock of The Rigs and embraces a more uplifting, even celebratory sound, while still retaining the emotional depth that defines his work.
In "The World's Gonna Love Me", TJ presents an anthem of self-empowerment. The song is not just about personal validation, but about taking control of one’s narrative and owning one’s voice. It’s a bold statement, one that feels like a culmination of years of hard work and self-reflection.
As TJ continues to chart his own course in the music world, fans can expect even more dynamic releases that blend introspection with empowerment. While The Rigs will always be an important part of his story, Stafford’s solo career promises to explore new emotional and creative territories.
For those familiar with his work in The Rigs, TJ’s solo music offers a new dimension to his artistry. It’s powerful, raw, and incredibly human—everything we’ve come to expect from an artist who wears his heart on his sleeve.
You can check out TJ Stafford’s latest single, "The World's Gonna Love Me", on all streaming platforms, and be sure to keep an eye on his journey as he continues to push the boundaries of his music. Whether through The Rigs or his solo work, TJ Stafford’s voice is one that deserves to be heard.
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