Portland-based singer-songwriter Trevor Hanks is known for turning life's struggles into compelling rock anthems that resonate with listeners seeking authenticity and hope. His latest single, "Can't Keep Holding On," explores the difficult realities of destructive habits, personal accountability, and the challenge of breaking free from unhealthy cycles.
Backed by a raw indie rock sound and deeply personal storytelling, the song reflects Hanks' belief that while everyone makes mistakes, true change begins when individuals choose a different path. With music featured on hit television series including Tracker, The Rookie, and Tulsa King, Hanks continues to connect with audiences through songs that are both emotionally honest and powerfully relatable.
In this interview, he discusses the inspiration behind "Can't Keep Holding On," his songwriting process, the impact of television placements, and why music remains his most effective form of therapy.
Listen to the song here.
Q: For listeners discovering your music for the first time, how would you describe who Trevor Hanks is as an artist and songwriter?
As an artist, I'd say I'm a little angsty and moody, but have fun in it haha. I make this kind of music essentially as a means of therapy but hope that someone hears it and feels related. No one actually wants to hear alone.
Q: "Can't Keep Holding On" explores the slow spiral of dependence and trying to break free from destructive cycles. What inspired the emotional core of the song?
Great question! To preface, all humans make mistakes, but we can always try to do better. Unfortunately, there are people who continue to do wrong and do not try to do better, so I wrote this to and about those people who blatantly choose to do the wrong thing but then wonder why life went awry.
Q: The track carries a raw indie rock energy while still feeling deeply personal and reflective. How did you approach balancing vulnerability with intensity in both the songwriting and production?
It really comes down to that being my personality basically. I wear my heart on a sleeve, as well as my emotions, in whatever I'm going through, good or bad. I can also be intense haha, so it comes through in my music.
Q: Your music has appeared in shows like Tracker, The Rookie, and Tulsa King. How does hearing your songs placed in television and film change the way you think about storytelling through music?
It reminds me that I have absolutely no control over what a story might do for somebody else and I try to tell the story in a real way, but not in the typical way most songwriters would. The songs that I have in TV are all songs that I never thought would really do anything, but they clearly spoke well enough to get them in these shows. So that's pretty cool.
Q: You've shared stages with artists ranging from Skillet to American Authors and The Cadillac Three. What have those touring experiences taught you about performing and connecting with audiences?
For me, it's all about the connection with people: So the performing is really just the catalyst to connect with people off the stage. Or to share stories or hear stories and relate to each other. It's a special thing.
Q: "Can't Keep Holding On" wrestles with themes of escape, struggle, and personal responsibility. How have your own life experiences and beliefs shaped the way you write about difficult or uncomfortable realities in your music?
Life experiences and my belief is really all I write about. Music has always been therapy for me. It's a way to get things out that i typically have a hard time saying in conversation.
