Backstory:
Tough Emperor came into existence in the bustling college town of Oxford, Ohio, where four undergraduate friends decided to combine their love of music with their unwavering determination to forge their unique sound. The members of Tough Emperor are lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Rob “Emperor” Wilson, bassist and backup vocalist Josh “Tuff” Daniels, lead guitarist Kevin “Vicious” Field, and drummer Peter “The Beat” Stuart. They practice in their makeshift garage studio, often recording late into the night pushing their passion for music beyond the confines of their academic lives. Their band name, Tough Emperor, is a tribute to their tenacity to rule the music scene and also a nod to their lead vocalist, Rob.
Genre:
Tough Emperor’s genre is a well-blended mix of Alternative Rock and Post-Grunge, with a hint of Indie Rock. Their music is characterized by heavy, distorted guitars and raw vocals over complex, layered arrangements. While their melodies often carry a dark tone, the lyrics convey thought-provoking themes and emotions that resonate with their audience.
Title: “Shattered Crowns”
Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Am, G, F, C
Shattered crowns and broken dreams,
Am, G, F, C
In this world, nothing’s what it seems.
Am, G, F, C
Lost in thought, trapped in mind,
Am, G, F, C
Searching for what we cannot find.
(Chorus)
F, G, C, Am
We’re the kings and queens, in the land unseen,
F, G, C, Am
Tough Emperors, in a world of dream.
(Verse 2)
Am, G, F, C
Bold and brave, we wear our scars,
Am, G, F, C
Guided by the northern stars.
Am, G, F, C
In the night, in the unknown,
Am, G, F, C
We build our throne, we stand alone.
(Chorus)
F, G, C, Am
We’re the kings and queens, in the land unseen,
F, G, C, Am
Tough Emperors, in a world of dream.
(Bridge)
Em, Dm, G, C
In the end, we’ll find our place,
Em, Dm, G, C
In the heart of chaos, we’ll find our grace.
(Chorus)
F, G, C, Am
We’re the kings and queens, in the land unseen,
F, G, C, Am
Tough Emperors, in a world of dream.
Fan Testimonial:
Riley Thompson, a long-time fan, claims Tough Emperor as her favorite band, “Their music speaks to me on many levels. It’s raw, real, and it perfectly encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of growing up. I first saw them perform at a small gig in Oxford and instantly fell in love with their sound. Rob’s voice is hauntingly beautiful, and their lyrics resonate with me. Listening to their music has helped me through some tough times. Tough Emperor isn’t just a band to me, they’re an inspiration.”