Tears for Fears talk new record "The Tipping Point" (Interview with The Current)

Jill Riley catches up with Tears for Fears' Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith about their 2022 record "The Tipping Point". The English duo talk about getting the band back together after a fateful fax, how honesty in songwriting retains its appeal across generations, and how they stumbled into stardom in their early days by making art that they loved.
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Credits
Host - Jill Riley
Guests - ‪@TearsForFearsOfficial‬'s Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith
Producers - Jesse Wiza, Anna Weggel
Technical Director - Evan Clark
#tearsforfears

[@StratsRUs]

Roland's voice always hits the spot.

[@pollymahone9392]

It's sexy

[@richprincipe749]

Roland is criminally underrated… as a songwriter and singer….

[@Butterflyneverlands]

And as a guitar player.

[@realmaximouse]

@@Butterflyneverlands his guitar work is insanely good. His riffs are so catchy and have an otherworldly feel to them. Their music wouldn’t be the same without it

[@wayneh-s2985]

Spot on

[@dodongkatabang5725]

and guitarist too

[@DaFuqBoom]

Roland Orzabal is a true genius. His songs are incredibly conscious & emotional at the same time, an ability which not a lot of artists manage to put well into their craft. Most of his ambitious works were overlooked by superficial listeners and never got the credit they deserved. Cant believe theres gonna be a new album! Cant wait for that.

[@The7dioses]

Never forget the role Ian Stanley had in Tears for Fears back in the eighties: The bands success was in large part due to his composition and production skills back in their eighties albums. He had a major role in Songs from the Big Chair, actually in their first three albums. He always kept a low profile and sadly he has not been very well credited for his work. He even worked up until The Seeds Of Love álbum (He was an integral member of the band with them including The seeds of love album, but split due to creative differences, although he played a major role in the song Woman in Chains creative process.) He is worth researching. You will find out how he produced other major bands back in the eighties too. He truly had the Midas touch.

[@DaFuqBoom]

@@The7dioses I know who he was, I think band was quite unfair to him. But I enjoyed Roland's effort in Elemental & his solo album as much, even without Stanley. But in case of first 2 albums, they were more like a band than duo, I agree.

[@The7dioses]

@@DaFuqBoom Absolutely, Roland's Elemental and Tomcats screaming outside albums are fantastic. I simply dont like the fact that both Roland and Curtis barely, if ever, mention Ian Stanley in any interview and dissapointingly, nonchalantly, downplay his role in their first albums ( I can confidently say I watched 99% of their interviews over the years, and not once have they ever credited him publicly as a trascendental integral member of the group in those albums ).

[@Chillednfunked]

How about you give Curt Smith some credit as well?

[@mariadelosangeleshuesca5736]

Los amo

[@christopherdavies3079]

That was very honest of Roland to finally explain what happened with his wife . I remember being shocked at his appearance when I saw him on their last UK tour when grief was etched on his face and he had seemingly aged very quickly. Good to see him in much better health now I can’t wait to hear their new album

[@guitarcheology]

I feel the same way. I met him about 5 or 6 years ago, and was shocked when I saw his appearance in the new video. This totally explains it. I can relate.

[@champflowahbomb7630]

@@guitarcheology you met him? How

[@guitarcheology]

@@champflowahbomb7630 I worked for the company that provided the sound reinforcement for the venue.

[@NarutoUzumaki-yx9lc]

¿Que pasó con su esposa? No se inglés pero si puedes contarme yo podré traducirlo

[@christopherdavies3079]

My local independent record shop recently won a competition along with 20 other people to hear the new Tears for Fears album in the company of both Roland and Curt . He told me that this new album is excellent and that Roland and Curt were both keen on feedback so he told them that there’s at least 3 really good standout tracks that would make good singles from this forthcoming album . This pleased Roland and Curt. He got on so well with Roland ( I’ve seen the photos to prove this ) and this record shop in Whitstable in Kent is celebrating its 50th birthday next year and they’re trying to see if Roland and Curt can put in an appearance in the shop on the day they play Canterbury next summer . I’d be very excited if they could pull this off .

[@aujourd8]

I don’t know how it’s even possible but I love TFF even more after listening to this interview

[@jonathanuy4084]

I can't even begin to describe how phenomenal TFF is, especially for musician fans who understand the genius behind their body of work. I'm almost 52 but all my kids know TFF songs coz they're constantly on my playlist whether in the house or in the car. Roland jokingly said that it feels like it was only yesterday. But if you understand Roland's dry, brit humor, you get it. But I love them both. Curt is as responsible for their success as Roland is. Really glad they came back together. ❤️❤️❤️

[@bmelvin1234]

The viral video of him and his daughter went viral because it was really really good. Just two talented people playing a great song.

[@monabell402]

Absolutely.

[@edwardk6464]

I'm 23 now, I discovered Tears For Fears when I was 10 and they totally changed my life and got me into music as a whole! Been playing bass when I was 12 because of Curt Smith. Finally got to see them live in 2019 and they were phenomenal. Thanks so much for doing this interview!

[@RandomJane104]

Roland being so real in interviews is throwing me for a loop. He's always done that in his music and you've gotten glimpses of it in past interviews, but with a side of humor to go with it. But I feel like he's just kind of said, "F it. Life is hard and I'm not sugar coating excrement." Also, I love that he let his hair color go natural. More of the not sugar coating it.

[@Keanester58]

So psyched these guys are recording and touring again. I still listen to my entire TFF library, never get bored with their genius and talent.

[@compostcorner5934]

Tears for Fears were one of my favourite bands from back in the day ,and still are today . It's great to hear the younger generation getting into their music ,as Roland said they are going through the same emotions Curt and Roland were going through as 18 year olds .. I'm the same age as them both now age 60

[@vincenzomorrisiano2620]

40 years ago I couldn’t afford to go and see them at Leeds University as I was a skint apprentice. I always thought I’d missed the boat …… I’ve now seen them 4 times since they reformed, still the best live band I’ve ever seen, true musicians and good people.. can’t wait for the new album.👍

[@Prizzy999]

OMG I'm so happy to see these two guys back togheter! Been their fan since the beginning and I just love them endlessly! And Roland is such a beautiful man with that "Gandalf" vibe 😊😊

[@rashaski]

So excited. TFF 4 EVER

[@plawson8577]

Both men are 60!

[@BJP719]

It's been 17 years and 2 days since I had the privilege to see Tears for Fears live... can't wait for this new Tour! They are truly Icons!

[@mariechristinedetaillac4100]

What a magic moment to see TFF speaking about the story of the band so peacefully and about the new album we are waiting so much !

[@mariflame1821]

I used to like Tears for Fears but love them now. Really great music! Will definetely get the new album!

[@doctorsleepcoloma93]

i love this legendary band, i was born when roland released de ELEMENTAL album back in 1993.tears for fears we are waiting for you always. greetings from GUATEMALA!!.

[@thestonetable]

I was 17 when I began listening to Tears For Fears. I loved them so much and it was like a swoosh of air that hit me. I felt that I could breath again as I was coming out of my teenage angst! I’m 52 now and every time I listen to them it feels more or a bit less, the same. Their music and lyrics are timeless!! Thanks for being so honest and sincere boys! Can’t wait for the new album.

[@fatimagabriel8877]

Wow...I was 17 too when i first heard of them, but in 2015! c:

[@drewben]

I was a little younger but am 50 now, and feel the same way. They take me right back to my younger years.

[@monicalee1374]

I love them! For decades, They shaped my musical taste and style, great song writers and performers. Saw them in Toronto few years ago and hope to see them on tour back in the city. Their music has influenced other singers and you see performers like The Weeknd that sampled “mad world”! Wonder how they felt about that. 💜💜💜

[@tomrawley6549]

these guys are part of the uk music royalty that has been a mainstay of music around the globe for decades, they are so talented that this new album is a testimony of their powers of reincarnation that stands the test of time, their unique sound has gripped me personally for decades, I have only ever seen them once live in concert but intend to see them next summer in kelso, a lifelong fan of them, my admiration of them and their talent is a joy to behold.

[@70sladyalways25]

I am beyond thrilled to see them touring. So excited to see them in concert May 2022 in Cincinnati! Just bought my tickets. I just need a back stage pass! I hope they do enjoy themselves musically. It’s been a long time but their songs remain on my music rotation after all these years. Welcome back and thank you for creating such beautiful music then and now.

[@jessicakraus5814]

I bought VIP tickets for the June 13th show in Charlotte, NC and I'm soooo excited for this! I've been waiting to see them for 28 years and I'm finally going to be able to!

[@marinapeache3113]

Tears for Fears rocked me and my son love there music they are honestly the best. I am very sorry to hear Roland lost his wife my condolences and love goes out to you all💙💙

[@Afghan1979]

Fantastic interview! Curt has great taste in books too

[@dewdew34]

One of my top 5 favorite artists ever. The music has meant so much, thank you.

[@chrisyoungblood1421]

This was an AWESOME interview!! Thank You for recognizing the brilliance of Tears For Fears! #thetippingpoint

[@arkphoenix340]

So sad that my other two favorite bands(Supertramp and The Smiths)Will never give us a reunion, but i'm so Happy with the new Tears for fears stuff

[@elizabethbarrett8009]

Same three favourites. I am 60- the music of my teens and early adulthood.

[@BretSnyder]

Mine also. Supertramp, The Smiths, Tears for Fears and also The Cranberries

[@crashcup100]

They are touring in 2022

[@easy2120]

I've seen three TFF concerts since 2013 and they were all very good. I highly recommend you see them on tour if you can.

[@toyosia8051]

I’m so emotional. Look how cute they are😭

[@bobbyshafto3259]

One of the best bands ever.......so pleased there's a new album out before long. Every one of their (or Roland's) offerings have been absolutely brilliant!

[@dagofish]

Sooo exc ited when I heard this.these 2 are masters at their craft I think the evolution of TFF and their creativity all has meshed. I love how relatable they are to real life. The new cd ,"The Tipping point" is brilliant.It is deep and heart felt.really moving...high five to this masterpiece, I'm smiling and my heart- we have all missed you soooo much.adding.. The LA show for this cd was amazing.(June 04,2022) I didn't want to leave I had always wanted to see them and this was my chance. My daughter made it all happen. Check this cd out you will hear this progressive band killing it.

[@dagofish]

Check "Rivers of Mercy" , this beautiful piece means so much, makes me cry everytime. I've had so much Loss in 16 mos.it feels good to lose myself in this.thank you TFF💜💜💜

[@joaquinjulianagtarap726]

A rock interview that left me with tears in my eyes. That's a first. Love this band even more now.

[@irismarsena1931]

When I was teenager I listened the first time TFF songs and I loved so much .I love that band .👏👏👏👏

[@roballen6449]

I have already ordered the new record on vinyl, I am really quite excited to hear it. Now, if only they would release 'Everybody Loves A Happy Ending' on vinyl! I am a vinyl fanatic, and this is one of my all time favorite records.

[@NitavTrueDreams22]

I love this. Why I love this group. They sang the things that they felt and it soothes your soul. 💙💖💕

[@melodyreeves488]

These 2 guys ROCK always loved them both great music ❤️😊🎶🎧

[@gohawkeyes529]

The summer of 1993 I was 11 and Break It Down Again was all over the radio and I remember loving it so much and then it was gone. 7 years later I found it again, thanks t Napster, and I got into Tears For Fears’ entire discography and loved all of it. So excited for a new album and chance to see them live!

[@darrenmart3783]

Saw them in Seattle last night and it was a spiritual experience, took me almost 40 years to finally see them. They are both geniuses, no doubt about it. But I must say that as I'm now in my late 40s I'm really starting to appreciate what an amazing person Curt Smith is. Humble, creative, talented, introverted. Growing up I considered him "the other guy" while Roland was the one who stole the spotlight. Now I see things differently and I feel Curt deserves a LOT more credit for the magic than I previously thought.

[@monicaherrera1394]

Tears For Fears Wow incredible good and pretty awesome the song was fantastic music so good!! 😄 🎶 🎵 🎼 🎸✨

[@drywallisinmyblood]

Just saw them 7/17/23 in Austin texas. They are true performers. They sound so good!!! 3rd row center stage. Well woth the money i paid. You guys keep it up

[@josebonifacio8366]

VERY RELEVANT MUSICIANS!!! TEARS FOR FEARS FOREVER!!! FROM THE PHILIPPINES!!!

[@depecheddurand]

It sounds crazy that duran duran just released their record and i would lose my mind if both the bands tour together next year.

[@70sladyalways25]

The 2022 tour dates are out. Several stops here in the U.S. I just bought tickets for Cincinnati.

[@rain73ful]

Great interview! These two are very intelligent and thoughtful human beings. I'm glad to be a fan of their work ever since the early days of their careers!

[@michellethomas1707]

I love you guys .. my teen age years were amazing with your music 🥰❤️ mad world I was at high school and I will never forget it. I’m 54 now and I still listen to it and love it

[@callumbinyon723]

Brilliant interview. Thank you for sharing.

[@mindlifechannel]

There is no music that has the same sense of depth and character that TFF possess. I was also impressed on how well they spoke and came across in the interview. Look forward to this release. Thank you, JZ (John)

[@RiverOfBlacklights]

_"There is no music that has the same sense of depth and character that TFF possess..."_ ... ??? I've been a big TFF fan since the 80's but, I find that statement to be totally and utterly questionable and debatable. I get that each individual has their own tastes and such but, do you *_REALLY_* believe that? In my view, there are *_TONS_* of bands that are just as deep and full of character as TFF with their music. I'm not talking about mainstream bands either - I'm talking about bands in the same genres that TFF have fallen under from the start of their career (mainly Post Punk & New Wave and even other associated genres, like Darkwave, Coldwave, Synth, Shoegaze and even Goth). I mean, if you *_TRULY_* believe that, then to each his own but, I would suggest you opening up your musical library a bit more. Hopefully, if you do, you will see that there is a whole gamut of different bands out there both old and new(er) that offer music that is just as deep and full of character as anything TFF has put out...

[@lindanoble7047]

I'm the same age as Roland and Curt, saw them 17 years

[@vandermude]

It has been a long time since I saw Tears for Fears live during the Everybody Loves a Happy Ending tour. I am looking forward to playing the new album at the start of the new year and hearing it in concert next summer. The singles are wonderful - very touching. Thank you for some great new music!

[@richdisilvio4591]

Love these guys! Their honesty and wisdom in this video alone attests to their true nature as great human beings and phenomenal musical talents. Can't wait for the new album!

[@16Elless]

Great chat. Been loving TFF since 1983 & the music just doesn’t date. I’m 60 something now & can’t wait to hear the new album.

[@karenlackner192]

I saw TFF in St Paul, MN 4 yrs ago and the concert was phenomenal!!! I literally started crying when I saw Roland walk out onto the stage! Their music and Roland’s solo albums mean so much to me. I have been a fan since their beginning!!!! Yes, I’m a 80’s MTV era gal!!!

[@fuckitoffnow]

Love them!!! Great interview! Can’t wait for the new album 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@zeehondje1000]

Happy, they they are back with a new album. I saw them in 2019 fot the first time, and will see them again next year. They are a great band.

[@projectresonate5142]

Legends and so sincere!!

[@janellemiller1195]

I loved TFF in the 80s and still love them. Curt was my favorite and still is my favorite.

[@TerryWillaert]

As a University student TFF helped shape my youth and their music continues to resonate because it speaks to our souls and takes us on a journey with them. Music awards our great but music that speaks to to human spirit is truly magical! Seeing them live in 1985 in London, Ontario remains one of my fondest memories and I hope to see them again live soon.

[@rmrm1002]

The tipping point….how appropriate! These guys are always on point with their views and outlooks on what’s going on around the world with everyone everywhere. …good and bad. Have to notice those books behind him…reading, educating, and knowledge make some good damn lyrics. Wether it be real life or a great story ever told. Neil Peart of RUSH just came to mind.

[@diogenerodopaxil2653]

Like the two branches of a tuning fork, so happy to see them radiating together again.

[@sandramcmillan4200]

Great interview!! I saw them tour in 1985 and years later the tour without Curt. I can’t wait to see them next year. !! 👍😊

[@LauriShalom]

Amazing interview, thank you very much. I have been a TFF my entire life, so I cannot wait for the new album.

[@VicR914]

True legends

[@ZACohea]

Whoa, Roland has some hard rock and heavy metal material! That's not Tears for Fears, but this stuff should at least be demoed as a side project. Jamie would likely be excited to perform this type of be music in the studio.

[@maggysalas7744]

Woow eso dijo Roland? Toma mi dinero Roland quiero esa música!! 😆😆😎Roland f*** Orzabal love you, love Curt Smith, love Tears For Fears!!!

[@ZACohea]

@@maggysalas7744 He discussed it near the 10:00 minute mark.

[@maggysalas7744]

@@ZACohea Gracias por la marca de tiempo. Entendí que eso fue cuando tenía 14 o 15 años y que nunca ha dejado de escribir canciones. Es una lastima que no sean dadas a conocer.

[@clynch989]

Great interview, loved it. Great to hear that a new album is coming and a tour soon after. Hope they come to Germany (Frankfurt!). 😃👍🏻

[@jimmyharbin1674]

40 years ago I'm just 43 wow but every body wants to rule the world!!! Love it all

[@janemorrow6672]

What a great interview! Thankyou.

[@davidbenasulin]

Amazing and honest interview! Thank you for this fantastic piece of journalism and thank you to Tears For fears for the wonderful music that you have been putting out all these years!

[@entertherealmofchaos]

Powerful interview. Looking forward to the album.

[@simonburns7908]

I love tears for fears. The tipping point is an amazing song. I WILL be getting the album. And I have just booked tickets to see tears for fears. In Leeds UK

[@guillermososa534]

Raw Raw TALENT

[@pennyc11]

Mad World best describes the last two years. A lot of people still don't see how lucky we are to survive this pandemic. Songs, writing, so meaningful.

[@peoplesambassadordm8279]

U know it's good to hear this band.. I heard them through my mom's but never got the name. But I'm widely connected to music therefore listen to the different genres.. and tears for fears came up... rule the world and shout were songs that for some reason I remembered as baby

[@gabrielfloresdrums]

The Legend 💙💙💙

[@allangrant88]

Amazing interview. Tanks for that.

[@billbill5326]

Jill, another wonderful interview. Thanks so much!! ❤️

[@liveincolor3537]

So so very grateful for finding this interview. Just like everyone here, these 2 and their Amazing music means more than words to me. Love you both Roland and Curt, TFF!!!!! Thank you for your deep, thoughtful, moving lyrics and music from the beginning to now....

[@MrEverson7]

They’re great together, indeed!

[@mitchweiner]

As a fan of almost 40 years I’m excited for the new record! They are tremendously deep and it’s fascinating to listen to them here! Great interview with the interviewer letting them talk!

[@mariomejia3024]

Woow! I'm listening to them since 1985, loved all those songs from the 80's they made, but listening to them now I can say they're truly amazing, music from the heart, thank you for this new hit, love and respect gentlemans 🙏👍

[@karinanolasco8974]

Amo amoooo😍😍😍😍😍 a Roland Orzabal saludos desde la CDMX

[@h.p.dominocus]

I'm pretty psyched about this new album. It also seems like things in the US are at a tipping point (pther places in the world too). Mainly between people that watch mainstream media or news, as opposed to reality, being journalists who don't work for a corporation. Anyway, politics aside, I really love the new Tears For Fears stuff. I'm convinced that It will last forever as just good music.

[@TheReplicant16]

Fantastic band--- really looking forward to the new album.Awesome interview...

[@dannycasson1551]

Saw them thirty years ago. Huge influence on me. Thankfully they are coming to my town this summer. Already got my tickets 🎟

[@robseenzocominato9717]

Love The Interview. Thank you

[@radixreuel7631]

Roland & Kurt son leyenda ✨

[@bridamc3493]

Love it Guys.. I can't stop listening to this.. I really hope to see you live in 2022... So sorry to hear about your wife Roland xx.. She will be here still looking after you x

[@davidgonzalez5664]

I started listening tff since I was 12 until now and my grandson is only 2 years old and he really like tff songs and videos like his grandfather 😁

[@ladyjanebrandao7970]

Estou muito feliz por nós fãs,pelo TFF,pelo Roland e Curt.

[@melodyreeves488]

Love the interview ❤️💙

[@norwegianblue2017]

Already got tickets for their show in June of next year!

[@jonnyboy8781]

Very honest thoughts from Roland about his sad loss. Curt too 'wears' his sensitiveness. Makes it a very honest interview. Lots of respect for all three of you. A very enjoyable & instructive interview. Thank you.

[@karlatrigueiro6906]

wow, i love it. Come to Brazil, please. we will wait for you guys

[@tff_aline]

Amo vocês! Obrigado por compartilhar! 💜💜💜💜💜 Abraços do Brasil 🇧🇷

[@Steve-bo6ht]

Incredible interview really appreciate Jill letting Curt & Roland talk

[@ohh338]

I got a chance to see them in 2010 in Chastain Park in GA...I have loved them since I was a teen... great they are making more music... thanks for upload the interview

[@BDHO73]

She’s a great interviewer. Nice work.

[@cherylcalac8485]

Wonderfully honest interview, I love them!

[@ekayaniperforms]

Yay! Touring in May!!!

[@txbill2512]

I probably listen to "The Working Hour" at least once or twice a month. My favorite (if that's possible) TFF song.

[@vorticity4]

Jill. You did an amazing job getting details out of these guys I have never heard. Super job with your preparation and elicitation. So impressed. Oh, and Curt and Roland were okay too. :-)

[@denniskaras3120]

I love these guys! Can’t wait to see them in Chicago 2022!! Great interview by “the current”