In this interview spotlight, I chat with singer/songwriter/producer Simon XO about his latest release, challenges, motivations and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into Simon XO, the artist and your music. What attracted you to the electro-pop genre?
I was in a rock band for a long time, that’s where I learned how to produce and record. When the band broke up, I wanted to take those skills and explore other, more electronic music that I liked. I started working on new songs with no real sound in mind, and it slowly became obvious that they we’re all in that electro-pop vein.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
Well I started playing music when I was five, but started writing songs around 13. I released my first set of songs around junior year of high school, and I’ve been putting out music ever since!
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
Well my dad is the world’s biggest Neil Young fan. I grew up hearing his music every day, so naturally that is one of my biggest influences. But as I grew my own taste I fell in love with the songs of Wilco, Elliott Smith, Radiohead, and Sufjan Stevens. It wasn’t until I got to college that I explored more electronic or produced music. That’s when I started getting really into people like Jack Garratt, Chance the Rapper, Kanye, and Vampire Weekend.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on your new EP, Covering? Creatively or otherwise?
This EP was definitely an exploration for me. I was going through two break-ups (band and relationship), so I started writing all these new songs. I think the biggest thing I was trying to accomplish with the release was the new sound and new project that came with it. The process was simultaneously really fun at times and really trying at others.
What was the last song you listened to?
“Rose” by Briston Maroney. Really great up and coming songwriter, strongly recommend!
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Definitely vinyl. I have an ever-growing collection at home. I just love how music it focuses you on the album, as opposed to something more portable and compact like CD’s or MP3’s or streaming. You have to sit there and listen. And it sounds better!
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Interesting! I typically use Spotify, but I think that’s mostly just out of habit.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?
Hmmm, tough question. I think the biggest issue is showcasing yourself as unique enough to be worth listening to in the short span of time you have to demonstrate it. I grew up listening to albums and diving into an artist’s large collection of work before deciding how I feel about it. No you have a verse and chorus to impress people, it is much more difficult.
Do you gig, tour or perform? Do you ever live stream? Where can music lovers see you live?
Absolutely! I consistently gig around Los Angeles (where I live), and I’ve been trying to put together a mini-tour up the coast of California. I also have some live videos on my YouTube channel.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
My website has all my links: www.simonxomusic.com, but all my social handles are simonxomusic, and I’m on Spotify, iTunes, etc!
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
Shout out to you guys! Thanks so much for having me, I really had fun with these questions.
