Hey, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?
Hey! Thanks for chatting with me! I first started out in music making mash-ups. There used to be this underground circuit of DJs in the city I’m from, that would make these awesome mashups and mixes. So I started out mimicking that style with these far out mashups.
How do you balance your time in the studio with other commitments such as a part-time job or family?
Advanced scheduling! I try to plan my studio days a month or two out and then I just plan around those days. I wish I could be in the studio everyday but knowing ahead when I’m going helps.
Your latest song is ‘When In Rome’. Can you tell us more about the making of it and if there were any unusual things happening during the process?
I typically do a demo in my home studio and then take that into the proper studio to work it out. I originally thought I would sell the beat to someone but I decided to use it myself before there were any takers. When In Rome came together pretty quickly. I had sketched out the lyrics a while back and Josh (Valleau) and I came up with a good idea for the vocal sound. Process was fairly straightforward once we got going.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
I think my fans and I connect through the themes in my music. I’m up late nights, anxious, many times and sometimes I struggle with the feeling that I haven’t gotten the chance to really show my stuff, nevertheless, I’m back in line trying again. My message for my fans is that if those sorts of things speak to you, then my music is for you.
What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?
I’m an artist. So, I would certainly be pouring myself into something artistic. Connecting with people through art has long been a passion. I’d be painting or writing or something.
How do you know when a work is finished?
I’m sure many musicians are like me, and I listen to my songs over and over. When my mind stops suggesting additions to a song, then, I know it’s done.
Can you write what was your best performance in your career? How do you remember it?
I wouldn’t call it my best, but, my first play in high school is my favorite. I was in the play “Fame”. The energy I got back from the crowd during and after the show is what created my desire to continue to perform.
Do you have a mentor or coach?
I don’t have a mentor or a coach but I’m certainly open to it.
Who is your favorite artist or band?
Radiohead. That’s an easy one for me.
And finally, what do you hope to have achieved as an artist in the next five years?
In the next five years I’d like to have had a late afternoon or early evening performance slot at either Glastonbury or Coachella. That’s one of my top goals. So, I’m putting it out in the universe!