Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?
I’m based in Nashville, TN which has a huge music scene. A lot of people think it’s just country music – but there’s all sorts of different music and styles. There’s a creative energy there that’s really special.
How did you first start playing music?
I started playing guitar when I was 11 or 12 and couldn’t put it down. I was obsessed with learning and practicing my favorite songs.
Your new single ‘Gimme’ is out now, where and when did you record?
It was written in LA. I go out there from time to time for a change of scenery and different vibe. I was working with my friends Colin CreeV and Curtis Peoples in their studio. The song came really easily. It was just honest to how I feel about social media.
What influenced the sound and songwriting for Gimme?
At the time we were exploring how to expand upon what I was already doing – which was a lot of acoustic/vocal music. We played around with recording the acoustic guitar part and sampling it with different effects. Then we worked on the bass guitar groove and everything built itself around that.
How have your fans reacted to Gimme?
It’s been really cool and I think it’s sparked some discussion. It’s always nice to know people are listening and paying attention to the meaning behind what you’re writing. And it’s true, I’m really sick of having to suck in my stomach for pictures haha.
You’ve emerged from the world of YouTube to release your own music, please tell us about how this process has taken place:
I’ve had a lot of success with covers online and I still do them quite regularly. But after awhile, I just had a creative itch that I wanted to do more. And I knew I had more to say musically and lyrically beyond what I had been doing with the covers.
What have you been working on recently?
This month I’ve been finishing up a track with my friend Jeffrey James. It’s a duet called In Your Gravity. We wrote it together for me and then Jeff texted me that night and was like “I really love this song, can I sing it too?” And it was a no brainer because his voice is one of my favorites.
What do you have planned for 2019?
I’m about to do a bunch of shows in Europe, so right now I’m focusing on that. As for the rest of the year, I’m trying out some brand new songs on tour and depending on how they feel I’d love to record and release a few of them this year.
Who are you listening to at the moment?
Right now I’m listening to a lot of Lauv and Alec Benjamin.
What do you like to do away from music?
I love visual arts and film. I’m always playing around with cameras and making little videos. I could see myself directing other videos in the future.
Favourite food and place to hangout?
I love a great burrito and Baja Burrito in Nashville is the best. As for a hangout spot, I travel a lot…so when I’m home I love being at home. Nothing like a night in with good wine and good friends.
