How important is the visual element of music? (album covers, music videos etc)
“As important as one makes it. It’s never a deal breaker in my eyes. If the juice is there, you won’t need visuals for the journey in your mind.”
Do you think the above has changed with the introduction of streaming platforms and the decline of physical sales?
“Yes, It has definitely diversified as almost anyone has access to social media platforms. With the world connected, it’s important to have something to reach out and grab you.”
How important is music journalism considering the influence of streaming platforms and user-tailored playlists like ‘made for you’ on Spotify?
“Very. Tailored playlists are great but I like to dive in a bit further. Journalism gives me a birds eye view of an artist / composer, their origins and what makes them tick. It can be very eye opening and sometimes even comical or soul crushing.”
Have you ever had any instances where you felt like giving up the dream of music?
“Uncertainty, the word no and even scarier, achieving exactly what you wanted to. I have only felt like giving up a few different times. Once after a stab injury (severing my tendons) in my left hand and secondly, during the battle with addiction that surfaced shortly after. Each doctor said I’d never play again. Glad I met a Doctor that believed in the impossible. BOOM!!! “
How did you get into music in the first place?
“I’ll be brutally honest. To drown out the abuse and to kill the pain in my heart.“
How do you spend most of your spare time outside of music?
“I love traveling and talking with strangers. I take care of a small ranch. I also sponsor people who battle addiction and depression.”
If you could share the stage with a deceased music star who would it be and why?
“Jeff Buckley. Because I feel everything he sings and plays. We’d blow the roof off a joint, know that.”
What’s your method for discovering new music?
“Typing in weird and random words in search engines. When something is tasty, I let it drive me to different entities that create… THE UNKNOWN. and it is beautiful.”
Emma Russel