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Interview: Chris Weaver

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your latest album, and what themes or
stories you aimed to convey through your music?


While I haven’t released a full album recently, my latest songs, « Circus » and « Fastcar Days, » are inspired by personal experiences and observations. They reflect moments of nostalgia, introspection, and the journey of life. Each song is a snapshot of a memory or emotion, aiming to resonate with listeners and take them on a journey of their own.

Music often has the power to transport people to different places and times. Can you
describe a moment in your life when a particular song or album had a profound impact
on you?


One song that had a profound impact on me is « Night Moves » by Bob Seger. It’s timeless, and every time I listen to it, I’m transported to a different place. It’s a reminder of the power of music to evoke emotions and memories. Additionally, John Mayer’s album « Continuum » holds a special place for me. Every track on that record paints a vivid picture, and I found that each song resonated with different aspects of my life, making it a truly transformative listening experience.

Many artists have rituals or routines they follow before performing or recording. Do you
have any unique or quirky pre-show or pre-recording rituals that you find help you get in
the zone?


Before performing or recording, I like to meditate to center myself. It’s also essential for me to connect with the audience or the essence of the song. I often listen to a playlist on Spotify, which has a mix of vocal warm-ups and some of my favorite tracks. It gets my energy up and sets the mood.

Your lyrics often tell a story or convey a message. Can you share the story behind one
of your songs and the inspiration that led to its creation?


One song that holds a special place in my heart is « California High. » It was inspired by my first road trip to and from California, particularly my maiden visit to Los Angeles. The journey, the sights, and the emotions of being in LA for the first time all culminated into the creation of this track. The song is a reflection of the visuals and feelings from that trip, making it one of the most personal pieces I’ve written.

If you could curate a music festival with a lineup of your dream artists, who would be the
headliners, and what would the theme of the festival be?


If I had the opportunity to curate a music festival, the theme would be an « Acoustic Coffeehouse Vibes. » The idea would be to strip down the music to its raw, emotional core, allowing artists to showcase their songs in a more intimate setting. The headliners would include legends and contemporary icons like Tom Petty, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, John Mayer, Adam Duritz of Counting Crows, and the band Fun. I’d also love to see performances from artists like James Taylor, Carole King, and perhaps even a special set from Fleetwood Mac in this unique setting. This stripped-down, acoustic style would allow both the artists and the audience to connect on a deeper level, making the experience truly memorable.

Music can be a powerful tool for advocacy and change. Are there any social or political
causes that you’re passionate about, and how does your music play a role in promoting
these issues?


Music is a powerful platform to voice opinions and drive change. While I believe in the universality of music, I’m passionate about mental health awareness. Through my songs, I aim to touch upon emotions and experiences that many go through, hoping to create a sense of understanding and solidarity.

The music industry has evolved significantly with technology. How do you see artificial
intelligence and emerging technologies impacting the creation and distribution of music
in the future?


The evolution of the music industry with the advent of technology has been nothing short of revolutionary. Artificial intelligence, in particular, is poised to play a transformative role in the way we create, distribute, and consume music. AI can analyze vast amounts of data, recognize patterns, and even assist in composing music, potentially offering artists a new set of tools to enhance their creativity. However, with these advancements come challenges. The essence of music lies in its human touch, its ability to convey emotions, stories, and experiences. While AI can assist in the technical aspects, the soul of the song remains inherently human. On the distribution front, emerging technologies could further democratize music access, making it easier for indie artists to reach global audiences without the traditional gatekeepers. Yet, this also means navigating a more saturated market. In the future, I envision a harmonious blend where AI aids the creative process without overshadowing the human element. It’s an exciting time to be in the industry, and I’m eager to see how these technologies will shape our musical landscape in the coming years.

Many recording artists evolve over time. How do you see your musical journey changing
and growing in the next decade?


The journey of an artist is a continuous process of growth, exploration, and self-discovery. Over the years, my music has been a reflection of my experiences, learnings, and the world around me. As I look ahead to the next decade, I anticipate a deeper exploration into diverse musical genres, blending elements from different cultures and eras to create a sound that’s both fresh and nostalgic. I’m also interested in collaborating with artists from various backgrounds, as I believe that the fusion of different musical perspectives can lead to truly groundbreaking compositions. Additionally, with the rapid advancements in technology, I’m excited to experiment with new production techniques and platforms to reach audiences in innovative ways. However, with all the changes and evolution, one thing will remain constant: my commitment to authenticity. No matter where the journey takes me, I’ll always strive to stay true to my roots and the essence of what makes my music uniquely mine.