Out Now via Spinnin’ Records/Warner Music
Artist: Jude York
Title: Those Were The Days
Label: Spinnin’ Records/Warner Music
Release date: November 1, 2024
Singer-songwriter Jude York captivates audiences once again with his already highly anticipated new single, “Those Were The Days,” out now via Spinnin’ Records/Warner Music.
Blending Jude’s distinct songwriting with a melody rooted in a famous Eastern European folk song from 1924, the track evokes a timeless charm. With its dynamic dance-pop beat and nostalgic yet energetic lyrics, “Those Were The Days” offers a soulful journey that’s already struck a chord with fans. The song has gone viral on TikTok, racking up over 4M views, 300K likes, 3K comments, and people clamoring for its release. This momentum, paired with Jude’s recent performance at SXSW Sydney 2024 in October and his signing with WME Agency just recently, solidifies his growing presence in the international music scene. As Jude York continues to rise, “Those Were The Days” is poised to be a standout moment in his rapidly ascending career. The song is accompanied by an emotive and yet humorous music video that contrasts the new and old ages. Make sure you don’t miss this one.
It was a bright spring day on my last birthday, and I was driving down the highway toward a vintage motel that I’d picked out for a photoshoot. I didn’t know what this shoot would be for exactly, but I knew that my music was heading in a new direction – classic, nostalgic, and full of life. Suddenly, ‘Le Temps Des Fleurs’ by Dalida came on the radio. I instantly recognized the melody but couldn’t figure out how. Showing it to my photographer and makeup artist, we guessed ABBA, something our parents might have played once upon a time. All I knew was that that melody felt like everything I was trying to achieve in my artistry. After digging deep into the recesses of my brain, the phrase ‘Those Were The Days’ attached itself to the line, and I could hear exactly where I wanted to take the song. As soon as I started playing with the production and recording vocals, I felt I was onto something special. I couldn’t be more excited to share it with the world. – Jude York
Jude York is the fast-rising Australian star whose self-produced pop delicacies are already leaving fans captivated and begging for more. Growing up rurally with an opera-singer mother and jingle-writer father, Jude had little else to do but create his own musical world. In 2022, Jude debuted with a unique cult-favorite performance in Australia’s national round for Eurovision before releasing viral hits – “Mr Porcelain” and “Cashew.” With breathtaking vulnerability, Jude quickly garnered a fanbase of like-minded misfits, a community solidified by seeing him live on tour throughout Europe supporting Dean Lewis and later on his own headline tour of Australia. Now, with 6M streams on his first mixtape and a Queensland Music Award under his belt, Jude’s next viral sensation, “Monaco,” is already signaling a new era for promising new artists with so much more to show.
For more information about Jude York, go to:
Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Spotify
Get ready to dance down memory lane with the ever-charming Jude York! Hot off the release of his new single “Those Were The Days,” the rising Australian star is proving that nostalgia is more than just a feeling—it’s a movement. Released via the powerhouse labels Spinnin’ Records/Warner Music, this track effortlessly combines a classic Eastern European folk melody with Jude’s signature modern pop twist, resulting in a soul-stirring anthem that’s already gone viral on TikTok. (Seriously, it’s racked up millions of views and counting!)
Beyond the beats, “Those Were The Days” is a journey through time, love, and longing, tied together with an energetic yet introspective vibe that only Jude could deliver. From his SXSW Sydney debut to signing with WME, Jude has been on an incredible journey, and this song marks yet another milestone in his fast-ascending career.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jude to chat about the magic behind his music, his creative process, and the surprising influences that shaped his sound. From childhood days of singing with his opera-singer mom to capturing breathtaking sunsets in Austria for the perfect cover photo, Jude’s story is as captivating as his music.
Pour yourself a cup of tea (preferably with mint and ginger, Jude’s favorite), hit play on “Those Were The Days,” and join me for this fun and heartfelt interview with one of today’s most exciting voices in pop. Let’s dive in!
currently residing in memory lane
Jude, thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me. After hearing your new single “Those Were The Days,” I was moved by its nostalgic charm and emotional depth. It left me eager to learn more about your creative process and the inspiration behind the track. What was the journey like for you in bringing this song to life?
For me, it all happened rather quickly; hearing the original 1960s song by chance on the radio, immediately getting the idea, starting to produce what I heard in my head and creating new lyrics to tell my own story. I felt like I could really continue painting the picture that the original melody had so brilliantly started.
Can you share the story of how you first got into music? Was there a specific moment or influence that sparked your passion?
I grew up with musician parents, so I was always deeply inspired by them. When my mum was performing opera, I could sense that something magical was happening in the room. She always instilled in me the belief that performing was an honor and an opportunity to ‘give.’ The first time she invited me to sing Pie Jesu with her as a boy soprano, I knew this was my calling too. My love of music has been evolving ever since, morphing into writing, exploring jazz theory, producing, and now a blend of everything!
The cover photo for “Those Were The Days” is stunning and seems to perfectly reflect the tone of the single. Can you tell me more about where the photo was taken, how you captured those perfect clouds, and how the image ties into the story and mood of the song?
Thank you! We shot that photo on the final day of filming the music video, traveling through Italy, Slovenia, and Austria. This particular moment was captured on a mountain in Austria as the sun was setting. Timing was everything—we had to wait for small windows between clouds, as they would periodically engulf us in fog. The location itself was literally breathtaking, making it easy to capture that ethereal, old-world charm.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound or approach to songwriting?
I have a few influences! For pop, I’d have to say ABBA is a huge one for me. I love their maximalist approach to music—the way the chords are deceptively complex beneath these bright, irresistible melodies. Their music can literally appeal to both a child and a music nerd. I also admire jazz icons like Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Henry Mancini. That’s the music I grew up singing and playing!
“Those Were The Days” is out now on Spinnin’ Records/Warner Music. How has your experience been working with such iconic labels for this single, and what kind of support or collaboration did they bring to the table in bringing your vision to life?
Working with Spinnin’ has been a dream come true. Everyone there has such a clear passion for music and the world-building around it. I never expected to find my home with a label so famous for dance music, but they’ve brought so much excitement and creativity to the project. Plus, their Amsterdam office (my favorite city in the world, by the way) is amazing, and they always have an ever-replenishing supply of mint and ginger for tea. Hard to beat that!
You mentioned that the phrase “Those Were The Days” came to you as you connected with the melody. Do moments of inspiration like this happen organically for you, or do you have a structured process for songwriting and production?
“Those Were The Days” is part of Mary Hopkin’s version from the 1960s, so I cannot take credit for that! However, when the French version came across my radar, I had to dig deep into the wells of my memory to recall the English lyrics, and that’s where I found “Those Were The Days.” Usually, when I’m writing, lyrics seem to form alongside the melody, as if they were always connected. I’m a firm believer that a melody wants to be something. Magic happens when the melody and lyrics tell the exact same story in perfect harmony.
Having grown up in a rural setting with a creative family, how has your perspective on music and artistry evolved as you’ve stepped into the international spotlight?
I have been both humbled and flattered! I’ve learned just how big the world is and how many truly talented people are out there creating incredible things. At the same time, I’ve gained the confidence to back my own ideas. I still feel like that same kid making little DIY demos in Toowoomba, Australia—just with a slightly larger audience than my parents and neighbors!
Can you elaborate on how “Le Temps Des Fleurs” influenced the track’s melody and overall direction?
“Le Temps Des Fleurs” is the DNA of “Those Were The Days”—at their core, they tell the same story. Both are nostalgic, whimsical, and romantic. I took the existing chords and melodies and created something that feels like it could fit in today’s context.
What emotions or themes were you trying to capture with the nostalgic yet energetic lyrics of the song?
One thing I changed between my version and the previous versions from the ’60s is the focus. Mine leans more toward romantic love rather than friendship or simply reminiscing about a bygone era. I wanted to be quite specific in the verses so the universal nature of the chorus could truly resonate. Who doesn’t have a ‘one that got away’? That concept is at the heart of my story and allowed me to bring a lot of emotion and animation to the lyrics.
How did the process of creating “Those Were The Days” differ from your previous works like “Mr Porcelain” and “Cashew”?
I think “Those Were The Days” might be my first real step into dance music. It’s the first song I’ve ever produced with a drop, which felt incredibly exciting to me.
“Those Were The Days” has already gone viral on TikTok. How has this platform influenced the way you connect with your audience?
TikTok can feel like a tempestuous lover! It’s been an incredible platform for people to discover me and my music, but it’s also intimidating because my content often gets viewed by strangers in a ‘zero-repercussions’ environment. I love it, I can’t stand it, yet I always go back for more—lmao. These days, when I post, I just pretend I’m talking to a friend and try not to think about who might watch it.
Growing up with an opera-singer mother and a jingle-writer father, how did your upbringing shape your sound?
I think I’m only just realizing that it did! I always thought I wanted to be a straight-down-the-line pop artist, but over the past couple of years, I’ve realized how deeply people connect with the side of me that reflects my upbringing. When I apply my mum’s singing lessons or use dad’s production tips and tricks, everything seems to fall into place. I think my voice truly reflects my roots.
You’ve described your music as creating a sense of community for misfits. How do you cultivate that connection with your fans?
I just try to be myself and not overthink it! As the saying goes, “Your vibe attracts your tribe.” It’s no surprise that my tribe of Yorkies seems to be bookish, thoughtful, and maybe a little alternative or free-thinking. It’s such a wholesome group, and I love connecting with them through our Discord, DMs, comments, and more!
Performing at SXSW Sydney 2024 and signing with WME are major milestones. How do these accomplishments shape your goals moving forward?
It really feels like I’m finally stepping into the live performance era of my career, which I’m so excited about. Moving forward, I’d love to play at lots of UK and EU summer festivals! I already have some things booked, so that’s what I’m currently manifesting.
What insights or takeaways did you gain from the experience of supporting Dean Lewis on tour, and how did those lessons influence your approach when you later headlined your own tour in Australia?
I would watch Dean’s show every night with a metaphorical pen and pad—it was a masterclass in ‘giving’ as a performer. Every fan felt so connected to him, and that’s my ultimate goal too. Live music is about humans connecting with humans. When I headlined in Australia, I was still finding my feet and learning to be vulnerable on stage. That’s something that feels a lot easier now.
Winning a Queensland Music Award and achieving 6M streams on your first mixtape are impressive feats. What do these achievements mean to you?
They mean a lot to me. While streams might just be numbers, they represent a very real connection to the music. These songs weren’t radio hits or playlist darlings—they were independently released and found their audience in the most organic ways. I’m very proud of that.
With “Those Were The Days” marking a new chapter in your music, what creative or personal challenges do you hope to tackle as you continue to evolve as an artist?
My goal moving forward is to continue balancing the worlds of fun, joyous pop music with genuine, heart-to-heart storytelling. In my opinion, only the best artists can authentically juggle both, so time will tell if I can achieve that too.
Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or songs you’re working on? What can your fans look forward to?
There’s another song coming soon! The beginning of the year will bring new bangers and something slightly different for my project. Most of all, I’m excited to release a new body of work—a true, cohesive statement. It’s nearly finished, and it’s everything I’ve ever wanted to say.
Where’s the best place to learn more about you and stay updated? Do you have a newsletter we can subscribe to, or should we visit your website?
My newsletter, The Yorkestra, is available on my website! You can also find me on all the usual platforms—Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and my broadcast channel. Visit www.judeyork.com, and follow me @itsjudeyork on everything!
What advice would you give to young or aspiring musicians who look up to you and dream of following a similar path in music?
All I’d say is, be bold and don’t be afraid to make mistakes! I recently read something that said, “The only things you don’t regret are your mistakes,” and I kind of agree. It’s better to be embarrassing than boring—there’s truly no reason to hesitate. Go hard and go for the jugular. I believe in you!
Jude, thank you so much for taking the time to do this. I truly enjoyed our conversation and learning more about your journey. In all of my interviews, I always like to give the artist the last word. Go for it.
Thank you for having me! This has been a treat. Live laugh love forever and always. Byeeee!
