In this interview spotlight, I chat with Sai Vsr about the latest music, 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?
I think 3 A.M. is a unique song. Lyrically speaking, there is no happy ending or a “light at the end of the tunnel” on this one, which ended up being a bit of a surprise for some listeners. But this is the headspace I was in when I wrote the song and this is what I wanted to convey to the people. I guess you could say that this song is a highlight reel of my darkest and most absurd thoughts.
How does this project compare with your other releases? Was there anything specific you were trying to accomplish?
Most of my previous songs are about love and its consequences. A good example is my debut EP which revolved around a specific incident that happened to me back in 2020. This project on the other hand is all about hate, which I realise is a strong word but I think we all have these absurd moments of insecurity. For me, it was when I’d open social media at 3 AM and watch musicians like Shawn Mendes or Justin Bieber or Billie Eilish doing better than me from a much younger age. Coupled with the usual worries of being a 20 year old, to be someone who wants to be globally received one day and be nowhere near close to it yet can be quite jarring. With this song I wanted people to know what it was like to be inside my head.
What motivates you to create music?
I’ve been quite a few things in my life. A ‘Straight A’ student, sports guy, video gamer, writer, paralegal at the civil court, law student. Even now I’m working as an HR exec to fund my releases. None of these things come close to the high I get from making music. At this point, everything else just seems wrong. Being on stage while a crowd sings my songs back to me, or having someone drop in and tell me how they relate to my songs and how it’s helped them, watching my own growth as a musician – things like these remind me why I do what I do, and constantly keep me motivated to be better and make more music.
What’s one of your first or most powerful music memories? Did that play any role in driving you to create?
One of the most impactful memories that I have of music is the first time I played at a school concert, back in 2013. I was a bassist for our band at the time. I went on to see a crowd of 2-3 thousand waiting for us there. At this point I was literally shaking but 30 seconds in and I just knew this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, but with my own music and for even larger crowds. After the gig I saw my dad waiting for me backstage. He was yelling “that’s my son” to random people. He then told me how proud he was. It’s also one of the fondest memories I have of him.
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.
Definitely Ed Sheeran. Ed has been a major musical inspiration to me for the last 9 years. I genuinely think that he’s one of the greatest artists in our generation and to see him grow from where he was to where he is now, both as an artist and as a person, it gives me a personal sense of satisfaction. It’s like watching a friend or a brother grow up. So yeah I’d love to meet him one day and sit with him and just work on something amazing. Let’s hope that happens haha.
What was the last song you listened to? And who is one of your favourite all-time bands/artists?
‘I’m Gonna Find Another You’ by John Mayer. Since I already told you how much I love Ed Sheeran I’m going to mention John as my other favourite all-time artist. Truly a maestro at what he does.
Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?
Well I’m available on pretty much every social media platform but Instagram would be the best place to stay connected with me. I’m fairly active there and often check my messages.
I really appreciate your time. Anything else before we sign off?
No but thank you so much for having me here and letting me share my thoughts. I will be working on new music and hope to keep getting more love and support.
