1: What inspires you to create?
I have no idea. It's like there is another entity in my head that just randomly spits out music ideas that overtake my consciousness. A melody, a groove, or a funny lyric will take over whatever my thoughts may be, and then I need to get it out by performing or recording it.
2: What advice would you give to someone who wants to be in a creative profession?
For me, there are two parts of creativity that are sort of incompatible. The creative side, and then the editing side have different motivations. In the past, I would find myself altering the original creative flow because the editor in my head is worried about how it would be perceived. So I try to separate those two things as much as possible. I do the creative side, usually by just 'jamming' and letting it go where it needs to go. Then after, I switch to editor mode to organize it. That keeps doubt and fashion trends out of the important parts of the process.
3: Do you feel open minded about what you listen to? Do you like going out of your comfort zone?
Oh yes, definitely. Part of what makes art so interesting is that it challenges the listener. I found myself at an EDM concert and was really amazed that there were really amazing, intelligent, and emotional songs that I heard there.
4: What outlets do you find out about music from? (Record stores, magazines, samplers, etc.)
Either live local bands, ambient music at a pub, or friend recommendations. And also, for some reason, the ATM lounge at my bank has the most amazing playlist! Every time i go in there i hear something that i love. So a big shout out to whomever chooses the tunes at CSOB bank!
5: What is your favorite format to listen to music on? (CD, Vinyl, etc.)
A night walk with headphones is magic to me!
6: How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business?
Dramatically. Honestly I'm so tired of having to learn every new platform that becomes popular. And the PR process for everything is taking up a larger percentage of my time. I miss the days when some weird dude in a white silk suit would promise you stardom, and then deliver the world.
7: Who was the first band/artist that became your favorite band?
Van Halen hit me like a ton of bricks when I was a teenager. It was so intense to me. Eddie is the reason I switched from piano to guitar. Before then, I was into R&B and classical.
8: If you could open a show for any artist, who would it be?
Pink Floyd doesn't usually have opening bands, and I'm not confident enough to play before that level of perfection haha. But if my new band lineup gets to a proper level, I might lie to myself a bit and dream of that.
9: Do you have any hobbies outside of music?
I love nature and i like to do long distance runs when the weather is nice. Boxing and gym is a nice contrast to recording studios.
10: What was the inspiration for your song “Shag”?
The Janet Jackson song "Alright With Me" has this infectious 80's beat. I've always thought of myself as more of an R&B guitarist, but I just like heavy metal guitar tones. So that groove for Shag started as a Janet Jackson ripoff.
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