John-Robert Interview
John-Robert, the 23-year-old singer/songwriter hailing from Edinburg, Virginia, just returned with a new EP. Titled ‘Garden Snake’, the self-produced project is a sonic exploration of John-Robert's roots and influences. From his small-town upbringing in the Shenandoah Valley to the pulsating beats of contemporary pop, the EP shows the artist's musical versatility.
- Hey John-Robert! How would you describe your music in 3 words?
Cute, folky, sad
- How does your new EP, "Garden Snake", represent a progression or evolution in your musical journey compared to your previous releases?
It’s my first self-produced project. I was beginning to learn Ableton and wanted to get a firm grasp on recording live instruments. What started as a secret passion project, turned into a highly informative learning experience. Production aside, I’m proud of the lyricism. These songs feel the most like myself. It’s the most cohesive project I’ve made thus far.
- Your music has been described as a blend of traditional folk and Appalachian country with a modern pop twist. How have your roots in the Shenandoah Valley influenced your musical style and who are some of your key musical influences?
I grew an appreciation for older country and folk music when I was 13. They were staple genres in the area I grew up in. There's something so simple yet impactful about a solid acoustic tune. When I was feeling depressed- it was a style that just met me where I was at. My intention with this project was to keep the spirit of folk music, without abiding by all of the unspoken rules of the genre. I was heavily influenced by Blaze Foley,
- "Sweet Child" is the lead single from the EP. Can you tell us more about the
inspiration behind the song and the decision to release it as the first glimpse into "Garden Snake"?
I was having difficulty moving on from a previous relationship. I didn’t like meeting new people primarily because it didn’t feel… familiar. I resorted to reminiscing, as opposed to living in the present. The chorus is filled with terms of endearment to highlight this ridiculous lovesick feeling I was holding. It’s a song where I talk about my sense of longing, without bumming people out. It felt like a good introduction to the EP.
- What challenges and rewards have you experienced in taking on a hands-on role in the production process?
Analysis Paralysis. Imposter syndrome. Anxiety. Those are the biggest hurdles, especially when signing off on a version for master. I hyper-fixated on nearly every detail. So much so, that I’d visualize the Ableton session view as I fell asleep. However, making music is a labor of love. It’s truly self-serving and fulfilling work. Writing, producing, and releasing these songs is a cathartic experience. It’s helped me move through some of the pain I was carrying. Putting my thoughts into something external, better helps me understand myself, and reminds me that I am not my thoughts.
- As you reflect on the journey of creating "Garden Snake", what do you hope listeners take away from the EP?
It’s my hope that people know they’re not alone in their growing pains. I’m learning as I go. I’m still trying to learn to like myself. While self-love is preached, it is difficult to internalize. And that’s not weird. There’s a lot of people who feel that way, myself included. I hope that people can relate, have a good cry, and be a little more gentle with themselves.
- How do you navigate collaborations and co-signs with artists like Alessia Cara and Camila Cabello while maintaining your distinctive musical identity as a solo artist?
I don’t really think about it. I focus on pursuing my interests and those co-signs/ collaborations are kinda positive consequences. I’m grateful for them, and am just lucky to work with a team that affords me those opportunities.
- "Garden Snake" is described as the first entry in a series of releases. Can you give us a glimpse into what future projects might hold?
At this time I can not. It’s too early to say.
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