Keith Urban joined The Bobby Bones Show to discuss the release of two new songs from his upcoming album, confirming that while those tracks are officially out, the full tracklist has not yet been announced.
The new album features multiple covers under the "yacht rock" genre and there is one original track. It also features collaborations with Michael McDonald from the Doobie Brothers, John Mayer, and Little Big Town. Urban shared that the song featuring McDonald, titled “We Go Back,” is the only original track on the project. The song was written in 2020 and had been set aside for years until the idea for the album came together. When the song was originally written, he imagined McDonald singing on it. Years later, while assembling the album, that idea became reality. After connecting through a mutual friend, McDonald recorded his vocals, and the track was quickly finalized and added to the album before its submission.
The project, titled Flow State, is described by Urban as a yacht rock-inspired record. The concept came together organically after purchasing a studio and wanting to create something fun and low-pressure. What began as a few casual recording sessions covering songs evolved into a full album. Urban said the term “flow state” reflects the feeling of the music rather than just the genre, emphasizing a relaxed and immersive listening experience. He also noted that the album includes collaborations and reinterpretations of familiar songs, creating a sense of familiarity for listeners while offering new versions. Speaking on his collaboration with John Mayer for the record, Urban said Mayer has an evolving guitar style. He described Mayer as a versatile and highly skilled player whose sound has grown over time. Urban also spoke about performing the new material live, confirming plans for smaller, more intimate shows where he would play the album from start to finish. He just announced this morning, a pop-up performance in Nashville at Cannery Hall, where the full album would be performed.
The conversation shifted to touring and daily routines, with Urban sharing that he typically wakes up early and maintains a consistent fitness routine focused on cardio and core workouts. He noted that while touring schedules can change his routine, he tries to stay physically prepared for performances. He also believes pacing a live show is important, especially when balancing high-energy songs with those that require more vocal control. He described how his set lists are structured to manage energy levels throughout a performance.
When asked about his catalog, Urban admitted he does not have a single favorite song, explaining that his preferences change over time, especially when revisiting older material. He feels fortunate to enjoy performing all of his songs and does not include any in his setlist that he dislikes. Urban confirmed that the full album is expected to be released in the coming months.
Before he left, the show acknowledged he had a new scent. Urban is famously known for smelling incredible, and he shared his special smell with everyone. He likes to blend different fragrances together, rather than using a single cologne, which is something he learned from his father. He says the combination gives you a distinct, unique smell over one other people are used to. He also likes to create his own fragrances with different ingredients.