Can you share your musical journey with us, from when you first discovered your passion for music to where you are today as an independent musician?
Certainly, I knew I loved music at the age of three when I heard Neil Diamond’s song, “Play Me”. Started guitar lessons at eight years old and by the time I was eighteen, I was playing gigs for a living. Began writing songs in Jr High and to date, have released six studio albums. My songwriting really took a turn for the better when I discovered co-writing in 2006. I’ve been a full time musician most of my life, and it’s been an education you can’t pay for.
What motivates you to create music, and how do you stay inspired to continue making new and unique music?
–It’s my love for creating that keeps me going. I feel that it’s part of my evolution to grow as a writer and an artist. For me, inspiration comes as I experience life, art, heartache, reflection on the past and the grace of where I am as I grow older
As an independent musician, you wear many hats – from composing to marketing. How do you balance these different aspects of your career, and what challenges do you face in the process?
–There’s simply not enough hours in the day to wear ALL of the hats. It’s imperative for artist to be educated on how the whole process works in an indie music career. From creation, recording, producing, release strategy, licensing, promotion, playing live, booking shows, equipment, vocal care, etc, etc.. It’s been very important for me to acquire help in many of these areas that I’ve listed. It’s virtually impossible to do it all yourself and get it done properly and timely.
Could you tell us about your creative process? How do you come up with new ideas for songs, and how do you go about turning those ideas into finished tracks?
–There’s no one silver bullet for this. Inspiration for a song can simply fall out of the air while driving my car, or there could be a traumatic event that sparks an idea. I have to be aware when that moment happens and capture it. I’ve been co-writing for several years now, and it opens up the creative process.
Independent musicians often face financial challenges. How do you manage your finances to sustain your music career while also covering your personal expenses?
–I play a LOT of gigs and am very mindful of my expenses. Recording an LP album is very expensive, and that’s only part of the equation. there’s artwork, duplication, promotion fees, etc. It’s a lot to prepare for, but each time I do it, I learn a little more and it’s not such a big surprise. Educate yourself!
Can you share a particularly memorable or challenging experience from your journey as a musician that has had a significant impact on your career and personal growth?
— I’ve made so many mistakes over the years. When I was 25, I did some brief touring with The Wilsons (Daughters of famed Beach Boy founder, Brian Wilson). Consequently, I had access to their producer, Clif Magness, who’s produced massive hits over the years. I asked Clif if I could send him my new album for a listen. He replied, with a “send it on, bro”. I waited and waited and waited.. no reply. You can imagine the battlefield in my mind. A few weeks later, I sent him an email that I wish I’d have deleted instead. He replied in full retort, letting me know that he didn’t owe me a career and that I’d know when something I put out was good because I’d get a call back.. among other choice statements. I’d be lying if I told you that I never think about that. In fact, it crosses my mind often. What did I learn from that experience? Perspective is EVERYTHING and keep your emotions in check. At the time, I was a young, mediocre at best songwriter with no direction as an artist. Acting purely on emotion, I thought I had to force an issue with a famous producer who had more important things to do. What I should have done is relax, enjoy life and cultivated that relationship with Clif. I never received another call from him to work with any of his artists. Harnessing one’s emotions and expectations is KEY to life. A music career is difficult to navigate. I believe one must truly LOVE what they do no matter the social success.
With the rise of digital platforms, the music industry has changed significantly. How do you navigate the digital landscape, including streaming services and social media, to promote your music and connect with your audience?
–I haven’t hit the mark yet to where I have thousands of monthly listeners or achieved great playlist success. Currently, I’m releasing new music every 7 weeks on digital platforms and also releasing a new single to radio every 16 weeks. Casting the widest net that I can to gain new listeners and fans. It’s a full time job just to create content for social media.
Collaboration is a key part of the music industry. Have you worked with other musicians or producers, and how have these collaborations influenced your sound and career?
–Co Writing drastically changed my songs for the better. I work closely with a dear friend and co-writer, Ken Orsow. Co Writing helps keep you focused at the task of continuous editing. It’s make me more objective than emotional about the songs I write.
Your music likely reflects your unique style and perspective. Could you describe your musical identity and what makes your sound stand out in a crowded industry?
–I grew up listening to all genres of music, and I’m a small town country boy at heart. My music is a perfect balance of all my favorite artists that influenced me. It’s not that I plan on writing a specific style of song, they just come out that way, but they always sound like me.
What role does live performance play in your music career, and how do you approach planning and executing your live shows, especially in light of recent challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic?
–Playing live has been how I make a living for almost 35 years. Pandemic or not, Life’s about relationships and a music career is no different. Sometimes you gotta hustle and make new contacts and find new venues to play. Getting out of my local 100-mile orbit is the hardest thing to do without a booking agent. It’s best to not over saturate yourself in one are alone.
Many fans are interested in the stories behind the songs. Could you share the backstory or inspiration behind one of your recent tracks that holds special meaning to you?
–Sure, my current radio single, “High to Ride” has some personal influence behind its origin. It’s a song about needing a new perspective, a new view, something spiritual to lift me up. The Pandemic certainly took its toll on the world. Some things just halted. It seemed like the world was a pretty dark place for a while, and I needed a new “High to Ride”.
Looking ahead, what are your future goals and aspirations as an independent musician? Are there any upcoming projects or exciting developments in your career that you’d like to share with your fans and the audience?
–I’m extremely excited to announce that I’ve just release my 6th studio album called, “High to Ride”. It is the most cohesive group of songs I’ve recorded yet and actually feels like a debut album. I’m currently doing radio interviews both live in studio and via zoom. Last week, “High to Ride” was the #11 top downloaded song via Nashville CDX. Very exciting indeed. It’s one step at a time. I enjoy playing live and meeting new folks. Lucky to have these experiences indeed!
