Black Tie Revolt Release “Words of Wisdom”: A Softer Spin on Their Signature Rock Sound
Black Tie Revolt’s newest single, “Words of Wisdom,” released on November 5th, marks a compelling shift in the band’s evolving catalog. Composed by Tyler with lyrics by Ian, the track leans into a softer rock direction without losing the grit and emotional weight the band is known for.
Though lighter and more upbeat than their heavier releases, the band jokes that its warm tone gives it “country song energy.” Beneath that brightness, however, lies a deeper message. The song explores the tension of trying to let go, the uncertainty that comes with relationships, and the desire to understand what true freedom means to another person. For the band, that sense of uncertainty is something they connect with in much of their writing.
“I hope it makes people feel something, happy or a good sad, just understood. That’s the goal with everything we make”
Reviving an Idea and Rebuilding It Together
“Words of Wisdom” carries history. It began years ago during the members’ previous band but was shelved after the split. When Black Tie Revolt formed, Tyler and Ian sifted through old ideas and rediscovered its potential.
Tyler sent Ian the original guitar riff which was a catchy, unexpectedly upbeat idea he first shared jokingly. Once the full band jammed it at rehearsal, the structure fell together quickly.
Featuring new members Chancely on drums and Daniel on bass, the band intentionally created a raw, stripped-down approach. Instead of layering and perfecting each part individually, they recorded most of the track together, live, in the same room. Just five musicians locked into one shared moment in time.
Photo by Annabelle Reyes.
The result captured the emotion they were aiming for. Tyler highlighted one moment in particular, “It has some of Ian’s most powerful vocals. He’s not screaming, but the emotion he puts behind the singing shines differently on this one.”
Where “Words of Wisdom” Fits in the BTR Sound
To the band, this release represents range. Their catalog now spans softer indie with “Howling at the Moon”, a straightforward rock song “Second Chances”, a heavier material with “Nail”, and now thoughtful singer-songwriter territory with the new single, “Words of Wisdom.”
The band feels the new lineup has become more unified as well. After playing several shows together, they’ve grown comfortable onstage and more collaborative in the writing room. All five members contribute, and everyone is encouraged to challenge each other creatively.
“We try to keep egos aside. If I bring an idea and someone doesn’t like it, that’s fine. It might spark something better. We just want the best product.”
Defining Wisdom at This Stage of Life
We asked each member to offer their own interpretation of the song’s title and what “wisdom” and what means to them now:
Ian: “Wisdom means having the ability to see what’s coming but the discipline to live in the now with gratitude.”
Chancely: “Understanding the difference between the right answer and the correct answer, and knowing when to choose each.”
Daniel: “Wisdom is experience in the trade. It’s time dedicated toward a destination.”
For this project, Tyler didn’t lean on outside advice. Instead, he and Ian focused on tapping into authentic emotions by putting themselves back into the moments the song describes.
The band also shared what they’d tell their younger selves:
Tyler said, “just keep playing.”
Ian joked that he’d share the lottery numbers.
Chancely would warn himself to keep his gear and protect his hearing.
Daniel would remind himself to expect the unexpected and never sell himself short.
Reception, Live Shows & What’s Next
Live audiences have responded strongly to the new single, especially fans who connect with its softer tone. In their typical fashion, BTR plans to fit it into their setlist as part of a dynamic flow by opening with high energy, pulling back with softer material, and then “melting faces” again before the night ends.
This single is just the beginning. The band plans to release two more songs, with discussions currently underway for a 5 to 6 song EP expected in spring 2026.
When asked what kind of movie scene “Words of Wisdom” would soundtrack, Tyler painted the picture of an emotional fight. Two people arguing, but from a place of love and connection rather than anger. It’s fitting for a track built on tension, vulnerability, and letting go.
Fans might be surprised to learn the entire recording process took about a day. As for the member who offered the most actual “words of wisdom” during the creation of the song? That honor goes to Ian, whose vision anchored the track from the start.
“Words of Wisdom” is now available on all streaming platforms.
Keep up with Black Tie Revolt and other artists in the 806 music scene via Loud and Heavy Booking.
