Dan Schultz is a one-man-band who plays all the instruments and performs all vocals on his recordings. In true DIY spirit, Dan creates his sounds in a spare bedroom.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Dan about his music, challenges, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
I am from Pittsburgh, PA. I like to think that I create music that could appeal to a broad audience. In my first two albums (and upcoming EP), there is a mixture of songs in the styles of hard rock, metal, pop, acoustic, and ballad. There is something here for everyone.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
From a young age I was very involved in my school band and orchestra. Music took to me and I embraced it. I almost went to school to pursue music as my career but decided to keep it as a passion and hobby. Finding new sounds, learning to record and achieve a more professional sound, and being inspired to write new songs will hopefully keep me going forever.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
I never went to school for audio engineering and, aside from a few small tests and playing around, I didn’t really start getting into recording until about a year ago. Prior to 2018, most of my audio and video work was done by performing guitar covers on my YouTube channel. On this release, I set out to write better songs and use my what I had learned from recording my first album to improve on the audio quality. I feel this second release (“Casting Shadows”) does just that. I hope that my upcoming third release (“The End of Days” – May 23) has the same effect.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
I believe the challenge is the same thing that has allowed me to enter the market. It is easier than ever for any songwriter or artist to get their songs out into the world. At the same time, it is very difficult to find somebody to listen or provide feedback on it. I have seen stories time and again of amazing bands and artists putting their albums and songs out and nobody ever hears them.
What was the last song you listened to?
Caught Up In You – .38 Special
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Vinyl. Always.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I prefer Spotify because it seems like the platform that has the most users on it. If you are trying to reach an audience, I would say go for the biggest one.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
I believe any of the major streaming services would be the best way. I do have my Twitter and email address published on my website (danwschultz.com) and I am always checking!
Anything else before we sign off?
To any other artists struggling to make a name for themselves out there, keep at it! Good things will happen. This interview has been a pleasure. Thank you for giving me this opportunity!
