In this interview spotlight, I chat with H. John Wallum about the latest project, dream collabs, musical memories and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
What’s something you’d like readers to know about your latest project?
Crossing Over is my latest collection of songs. Completed in May this year. As you can imagine trying to express yourself with only a title (being instrumental music) is quite challenging. Just want to note here, Bunny Land is about a close friends outlook on life. She is the eternal optimist. Puts on her Bunny shades and out the door she goes. Very inspirational.
How does this project compare with your other release(s)? Was there anything specific you were trying to accomplish?
Latest collection is the most completely finished songs overall that I’ve done.
What motivates you to create music?
It’s a form of meditation for me. I can truly pacify myself when playing the piano. Whether it be just a simple warmup noodle or performing a song, the actual process of playing the notes is the best form of brain yoga I know of. So if music can have this type of effect on me, I endeavour to polish off the product in the hope that it will then possibly have a chance to affect someone else the same way.
What’s one of your first or most powerful music memories? Did that play any role in driving you to create?
Twelve years old, summer camp. My counselor played Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. It dumbfounded me with it’s beauty. Not a very apt analogy but I equate it with the scene in Young Frankenstein where the monster hears the violin and tries to catch the music out of midair. Still my favorite Elton song and still in my top ten compositions all time.
If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.
Amy Lee – Evanescence. Best pipes in the business with my apologies to Lady Gaga for placing her second. Amy singing and songwriting just does it for me.
What was the last song you listened to? And who is one of your favorite all-time bands/artists?
Honky Tonk Night Time Man – Lynyrd Skynyrd’s version. Elton John. That first listen to Goodbye Yellow Brick Road was a mind-blower!
Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?
I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?
Thanks Joshua for your interest. Cheers!
