Congratulations on the release of “Art Gallery.” How does it feel?
This piece is probably one of my favorite that I’ve ever put out, surpassing some of the works from “Paper House.” It feels amazing.
What’s the story behind the song?
I dated someone for a short time. In that time we were both learning how to deal with past relationship trauma, and not wanting to hurt each other. I started writing it while we were together to help process everything and navigate our relationship. Unfortunately it ended before this release, so that door is closed now.
You’re an artist from Memphis Tennessee. How did it all begin for you?
I was well past elementary and middle school when I decided I wanted to be in music. It really started when I decided I wanted to go to an audio engineering trade school. After I graduated I went back home and interned at a recording studio. I was there for a while before finally moving to Nashville.
What did you listen to growing up?
Most everything, but I loved my dad’s music. He was into all the cool rock bands like Van Halen and Twisted Sister. I took after it with the pop trends at the time as well. I loved and still love Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, and Kelly Clarkson.
Your music taste was influenced by your dad. Was there a particular artist or song that was the catalyst for this?
Billy Idol’s Dancing With Myself, and Green Day’s Basket Case
You’ve undertaken tours across the US. What’s been a memorable moment for you?
Giving New York another shot. When I first went, I’ll be honest, I wasn’t the biggest fan of NYC. But I booked more shows and I have friends there, so I gave it another chance amd now I love the city!
Tell us a funny story from the road.
One road trip, I was 2 hours in and I got a flat tire. It was 6am in rural Tennessee. I had to change my tire on the i-40 and get it to a used tire shop that was 30 minutes away but open. I though I wasn’t gonna make the show in time BUT the shop had ONE tire in my car’s size so I was saved. I’m thankful I know how to change a tire!
You’ve performed at Barry Manilow’s Grammy after party! What was that like?
One of the most iconic penthouses in America, that used to be owned by Elvis Presley, now owned by another icon, hosted a Grammys afterparty that I got to sing at?! I was floored! Winners and nominees watched me sing Blackbird and it felt so surreal and insane. Like a dream!
Post-COVID: What have you learned about yourself in the last three years? Did you pick up any new skills?
I’ve been in and out of the industry. What I’ve learned is that it’s hard to do it on your own. I’m more a conversationalist, I’m more open, and I have more love for music than I did before.
What are you listening to at the moment?
I’ve got the new The Band Camino album “The Dark” on repeat!
