Josh Olsen is a singer/songwriter from Austin, currently living in Los Angeles. He has written and composed a full length LP for “The Adamant” group, for FULLER HOUSE’s Juan Pablo Di Pace’s Broadway debut, and is currently writing and recording songs for his own solo debut album.
In 2012, Josh was seen in the X-Factor USA, making it to the top 40 acts in America. Since 2011, he has sung live for Gateway in Austin, in front of 6,000+ audiences.
Originally from Brenham, TX, Josh grew up in recording studios and concert halls. His mother, singer/songwriter Terri Olsen, instilled his passion for music from a very early age. He started singing professionally at 10 alongside his twin brother Jeremiah Olsen.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Josh about his latest release (Bad Things), technology, challenges 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 a small town in Texas called Brenham. My music is a melting pot of inspirational musical influences from pop and rock to soul and r&b. I am always trying to find out what’s new in music. I love exploring different genres.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
I grew up in a very musical family. My mother was a singer, so since a young age I’ve been surrounded by music. It’s the one thing that I feel completely happy doing. I’m motivated by my passion for music. What happens in the long run doesn’t matter because I’m doing what I’ve always been meant to do.
How is this new release different from previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
I’m really excited about this release because it was written to piano so the production was much more seamless. My other songs were written to track, so it felt like I was trying to fit myself into someone else’s creation. I am also co-producing the tracks on my EP which has allowed for a lot of creative freedom in my upcoming music.
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 think the main challenge is trying to stand out as an artist amongst so many other talented performers. The internet and social media has sometimes made it hard to be recognized but I also think that it has made it easier as well. The days of playing one bar after another are really over because now you can post a video on social media that gets you a lot of exposure that you wouldn’t have had otherwise.
What was the last song you listened to?
“365” by Zedd and Katy Perry
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I think it is amazing that we are using Vinyl records again. But for convenience MP3’s
How about this one… Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I tend to use Apple Music because it syncs well with my other beloved Apple products.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more of your music?
Instagram is where I am most active on social media.
Anything else before we sign off?
Yes. Don’t let anyone tell you what you can and can’t do. We are all the writers of our own stories.
