Can you share a bit about your upbringing and how it influenced your musical journey?
My parents always encouraged my siblings and me to play instruments, so music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Initially, I played simply because I had to, without any real goals. But as time went on, I learned piano and I began writing music, and that changed everything for me. Writing felt natural, like something that just made sense, and it gradually became an integral part of who I am.
What was the first moment you knew that music would be a major part of your life?
When I was 13, my mom submitted my music to BMI’s The Pete Carpenter Fellowship. I would have won, but I was too young. Up until that moment, I wrote music because it felt good, but I didn’t think I was actually any good at it. Because of the contest, I met Mike Post, who told me I had real talent and that a future in music was possible for me. Even though I was still young, his words made a huge impact. That’s when I began to believe I could truly pursue this path.
How has your creative process evolved from your early days as a musician to now?
In the early days, my process was less structured and more experimental. It was all about learning, exploring, and creating purely for the love of it, without thinking about making money. Now, I have an established workflow and a clear understanding of how to take a project from start to finish. Running a business means dealing with budgets, taxes, marketing, and networking, but at its core, it’s still all about the music. I still experiment and learn, but now it feels more intentional and focused, which is really exciting.
Who are your biggest supporters, and how have they impacted your career?
My friends are the first people who come to mind. They always show genuine interest and respect when I talk about music or share what I’m working on. They understand how much it means to me, and I deeply appreciate their care and attention. My industry peers and mentors have also played a huge role, offering encouragement, guidance, and a reminder that I’m not alone on this journey. Their support has made a world of difference.
In what ways do you stay inspired and continue pushing the boundaries of your creativity?
This question means a lot to me because staying inspired in my work is something I’m deeply committed to. I only want to create things that I genuinely love.
One way I keep things exciting is by trying something new every time I produce a track. It could be using a new instrument, technique, or effect—anything that adds a fresh element. I’m always looking to incorporate new knowledge, which makes the process feel like a treasure hunt in the everyday.
I also find inspiration from listening to artists I admire, especially those pushing the boundaries of their craft. I don’t see them as competition; instead, they motivate and encourage me to think differently and stay adventurous with my music.
What was the inspiration behind your single “Be Alright”? Was there a particular event or feeling that sparked it?
Be Alright holds a special place in my heart. The chorus came to me during the pandemic, a time when I had essentially “broken up” with music and taken a regular job, unsure if I would ever return to my passion. I was in a dark mental space, struggling to see any light.
Then, almost like a whisper, the chorus melody and lyrics came to me: “I don’t know how I know, but I know I’m going to be alright.” It was so vivid that I didn’t even need to write it down. I found myself singing it over and over, and it brought me hope and joy during those difficult days. It became a reminder that there was still something bright ahead.
Can you describe the writing and production process of “Be Alright”? How did the song come to life?
The chorus lyrics and melody were the first pieces to fall into place, but it took almost two years for the rest of the song to take shape. I didn’t want to rush it, I wanted the process to feel organic and true.
I knew I wanted to start the song with, “It’s been a crazy kind of couple years,” to capture the intensity of that time. I had most of the first verse written, but I struggled with the second verse. That’s when I brought in Brooke Tomlinson to co-write with me. Together, we finished the lyrics, and eventually, I produced the song alongside the rest of the album.
How did you decide on the sonic elements and instrumentation used in “Be Alright”?
I’m drawn to organic synth sounds that feel natural yet are hard to describe, so I incorporated a lot of those textures into this track. I also used a vocoder and layered numerous background vocals to create a rich, full vocal sound.
My favorite moment is when the chorus starts with just the piano and then quickly locks into a drumbeat with bass. It feels grounded and anchoring. I also included some strings as a nod to my background in music and film composition, adding depth and warmth to the song.
What do you hope people feel when they listen to your music?
I want people to feel hope and discover a newfound sense of energy when they hear my music. I hope it becomes like comfort food or a favorite TV show, something they can turn on and immediately feel at home with. I also want my LGBTQ+ family to find solace and connection in our shared journeys.
What’s something about you that fans would be surprised to learn?
This might sound crazy, but…I don’t listen to music.
I know it’s not unheard of, there are plenty of musicians who don’t. But people are often surprised when they learn this about me. After producing music all day, the last thing I want to do is listen to more of it. My ears need a break. Instead, I’ll listen to an audiobook (I’m a huge Audible fan), a podcast, or my favorite thing: silence. Silence is the canvas I create on, so staying in touch with it is important for me.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to aspiring musicians trying to find their sound?
Have fun! Seriously, I mean it. Music is a beautiful, strange, and glorious thing we get to engage with and create. Don’t let the industry, hecklers, or statistics bring you down. Focus on what brings you joy, and savor the journey.
