Country singer Joey Sontz is about to release his new EP — “How Am I Supposed To Live Without You.” With this project, the artist known for his Nashville style is branching out into pop territory. He certainly has the vocal instrument to do it all. The project is a heartfelt tribute to Laura Branigan, who established the song as a pop hit in 1983. Michael Bolton, the song’s co-writer, had a hit with it in 1988. Joey Sontz’s recording will be released on March 22, 2022. The proceeds from Joey Sontz’s version will benefit Project Angel Food, an organization that Ms. Branigan herself supported.

It is no small challenge to take a song made famous by the powerful vocals of Laura Branigan. Although it is an ambitious project, Joey Sontz is up to the challenge. He brings his own love for the song to the recording studio and, along with guidance of producer Austin Leeds, delivers highly personal versions of the song. From a straightforward pop ballad, to a highly infectious dance version, Sontz explores the song with respect and passion. He finds the heart of the song and, from that solid space, soars with emotion.

There’s a bonus to the EP — an intimate and sincere version of “Out Here On My Own.” Anyone who loves Laura Branigan’s “How Am I Supposed To Live Without You” will no doubt have a similar place in their heart for this song that Irene Cara sang in the film Fame, which makes it perfect “B-side” addition.

Here’s hoping that Joey Sontz continues his dive into this very strong material, perhaps by creating a video to accompany one of the versions of the five track EP.

[Photo by Cosimo Lizzi]