George Collins Finds the Joy in Soulful New Single "Happiness Looks Good on You"

There comes a point in every songwriter's career when reflection gives way to revelation. For George Collins, that moment arrived while looking back over the songs that would become New Ways of Getting Old.

What surprised him wasn't the quality of the material, but the emotional thread connecting it. Although Collins considers himself an optimistic, forward looking person, many of his songs explored life's more contemplative and melancholic corners. Far from seeing this as a flaw however, he saw it as an opportunity. "Happiness Looks Good on You" is a song that doesn't simply talk about joy. It radiates it.

With an irresistible New Orleans inspired groove, the track immediately evokes the warmth and authenticity of classic soul. Collins draws from the rich traditions of artists such as The Staple Singers, Dr. John, Allen Toussaint and The Neville Brothers, filtering those influences through his own songwriting ideas.

A rich Hammond organ provides the foundation here, while crisp guitar lines, a punchy brass and effortlessly swinging rhythm section create a sound that feels alive from beginning to end. The joyous Gospel Choir transforms the closing moments into a full blown celebration.

Listen in here:

Collins avoids the clichés that can often weigh down songs about positivity. He doesn't pretend that everything is easy here but focuses on what comes after hardships. The song celebrates those who have gone through difficulties in life and emerged through it stronger, wiser and more appreciative of life's brighter moments. It's hope that has been earned.

Collins isn't singing to one particular group of people either, but to anyone who has ever stood besides a friend through difficult times or found themselves emerging from challenges with a renewed appreciation of life.

"Many of my songs are quite melancholic and reflective," Collins explains. "I was surprised by this because I'm generally an upbeat, positive, forward-looking person. So I intentionally set out to write a song about happiness that would actually make people feel happy too."

"Happiness Looks Good on You" offers something refreshingly different. It reminds us that joy deserves just as much artistic attention as sorrow, and that celebrating resilience can be every bit as emotionally compelling as documenting heartbreak.

George Collins hasn't abandoned the thoughtful storytelling that has long defined his songwriting. Instead, he has simply shifted the spotlight onto hope.

With an uplifting slice of soulful Americana that feels authentic and wonderfully infectious. Whether you're discovering George Collins's music for the first time or have followed his work for years, "Happiness Looks Good on You" is proof that sometimes the most relatable songs are the ones that simply make us feel better about the world, and ourselves.

About George Collins

George Collins journey into music is anything but conventional. After spending 20 years in finance, he made a dramatic return to his musical roots in 2022.

His early years saw him playing lead guitar in the band Common Knowledge, where he rubbed shoulders with future members of the Dave Matthews Band. However, life took him in a different direction, leading to a successful career in private equity.

In 2012 Collins left the finance world to focus on family and music, a decision that reignited his passion for songwriting. His debut EP, “It’s Been a Long Time“, marked his official return to the music scene, bringing together his life experiences with his love for classic rock and storytelling.

Raised in Washington, D.C., Bethesda, and Chatham, and having lived through significant global events like the Iranian Revolution, Collins draws on a diverse range of influences for his music. His sound is inspired by legends such as The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, and Elvis Costello but also reflects his unique life experiences and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

His music speaks directly to those who have lived a little longer and experienced the ups and downs of life, offering a timeless perspective in an ever changing world.

Keep up to date with everything George Collins on his Website

Listen to "Happiness Looks Good On You" on Spotify now!