In this interview, we talk with Phoenix based Weslynn about their new project, their influences, and their preferences when it comes to listening to music.
Full Q&A as well as a stream of their video for “Strange Feelings” available below. You can also stream the single on Spotify.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
The music you listen to has so much to do with the things you went through as a kid and the music you grew up listening to. That’s why it’s so easy to make friends at shows. We grew up listening to the best classic rock; The Rolling Stones, Queen, Tom Petty, Led Zeppelin, and even the king of pop Michael Jackson. It was the ripping guitar solos and melodic vocals that really shaped what we play today. There’s nothing like a good hook and a killer guitar solo in the same song.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
Three years this August would be when we started playing under the band name Weslynn. Of course at that time we had a few home demos and cover songs on our Soundcloud page and shows consisted of playing to a few close friends and family.
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
The same things that really attract us to the indie rock genre, but also a lot of themes from the 80s. The harmonies and guitars really reflect the style of classic rock with an 80s modern twist. We are motivated by the love to play music. We love to create. Even if we weren’t trying to create a career out of music we would still play for the love of it. There’s no feeling like being on stage and connecting with the crowd.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
We were going for a more produced sound this time around. We wanted to create something that anyone and everyone can enjoy. Our goal is to be able to be played anywhere.
What was the last song you listened to?
Jared: The last song I listened to was ‘You &I’ by Colony House. They are just phenomenal. I would love to tour with them some day!
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Jared: I think I honestly prefer CD’s just for the fact they carry the best quality in this list! Vinyl would be a very close second.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
We love Spotify. It’s so easy to share music with the people you know and playlists are easy to create and follow. They have a really good way of introducing new music into your life with a weekly curated playlist just for you. It’s really great.
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?
We are fortunate enough not to have many challenges besides a saturated market. We try our best to bring everything to a positive light. Numbers aren’t everything, it’s about doing what you love an believing in what you create. If people like us, we are so excited to have you on this journey with us! If not, that’s okay!
Do you gig, tour or perform? Do you ever live stream? Where can music lovers see you live?
We play all over the Phoenix metropolitan area and we have done a few shows in CA, NV, and WA. We have done a few live streams via YouNow, but keep an eye out we will be doing more very soon! You can see us live at The Rebel Lounge on September 16th in Phoenix, AZ!
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are all great!
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
A huge shout out to our label For Emily Records and our manager Ami Rogers for loving and supporting us through everything!
