Key Highlights
- Richard Marx releases new album “After Hours,” inspired by the Great American Songbook.
- The singer-songwriter collaborated with Rod Stewart and his wife Daisy Fuentes on the project.
- “Magic Hour” was co-written with his wife, blending tango and Latin influences.
- Marx emphasizes the importance of authenticity and embraces a big band-era sound for this album.
Richard Marx’s “After Hours”: A Love Letter to the Great American Songbook
Richard Marx, known for his hit songs like “Right Here Waiting” and “Endless Summer Nights,” has returned with a new album titled “After Hours.” This project, released in January 2026, is a vibrant tribute to the classic tunes of the Great American Songbook. In an interview with PEOPLE, Marx opens up about the inspiration behind his latest work.
Marx’s journey into this album began during one of his nights at home, sipping martinis and listening to Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon.” The melody sparked a creative urge that led him to the piano. “Next thing you knew, I thought there was this beautiful love song hidden in this swing song,” he explains.
The Inspiration Behind “After Hours”
Marx’s new sound is a deliberate homage to the big band era, a period of American music history that spans from the 1920s through the 1940s. He describes his approach as “authentic,” stating, “I’m a guy who’s just intent upon squeezing every drop of juice out of this ride.” The album was recorded entirely live in the studio, a process Marx admits was both intimidating and rewarding.
Marx’s wife, Daisy Fuentes, plays an integral role in his creative process. In the album, “Magic Hour” stands out as a collaboration between the couple, featuring tango and Latin influences. The song’s creation is detailed: “I took a long walk one day in my neighborhood,” Marx recalls, “and I thought, ‘I love the song ‘Sway’ that Dean Martin did, and Bublé’s version is great, but I feel like it’s just so been done.’ So I thought, ‘I want to write a song that fits that.'” The lyrics emerged after a series of playful exchanges with Daisy on the beach.
Collaborations and Inspiration
“After Hours” features several notable guest appearances, including Rod Stewart. Marx credits his longtime friend for contributing congas to four songs. “Stamos and I have been friends for 10 years,” Marx says, “and we’re neighbors. We don’t see each other that much, but we text each other a lot and he’s like, ‘What are you working on?
What’s going on?’” This collaboration with Stewart adds an exciting dimension to the album.
The singer-songwriter also highlights his relationship with his sons Brandon, Lucas, and Jesse. “It’s the most exciting and thrilling and fulfilling thing to create with my sons,” Marx shares. However, he acknowledges the challenges of pursuing a music career: “Two of my sons, as brilliant as they are, have, I think, benched their musical ambitions.” Despite this, Marx encourages his children to stay optimistic about potential future opportunities.
Personal Reflections and Future Plans
Reflecting on his past, Marx admits that being typecast as a balladeer was initially frustrating. “I’ve always considered myself a rock singer and rock writer,” he states. Over time, this perspective shifted: “Over time I started to go, ‘Well okay, it’s not just me.’ And then with age comes, if you’re lucky, who cares?” This acceptance now allows him to embrace his diverse musical identity.
Marx plans to embark on a tour with Rod Stewart later in the year. “He means so much to me,” Marx concludes. The singer-songwriter’s new album, “After Hours,” is a testament to his enduring passion for music and his commitment to creating meaningful work that resonates with listeners.
Richard Marx performs live at an event in December 2024. Ashley Mar
