Interview: dj poolboi

Image credit: Ming Chen

"What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?

My father played piano when I was growing up so I was always around music. I started playing drums at a young age and ever since I’ve been playing music. I’d probably be doing something in film or if that didn’t work then computer programming

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

I watch a lot of movies which is hugely inspiring for creating. When I make music I often see images in my head of a scene that would play along to the track. I also like to see live bands and just chill with friends.

How long has your band been around?

I’ve been doing dj poolboi for about 4-5 years now

Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?

I’m based out of Austin, Texas. As a music town a lot of my friends are musicians and music and shows are everywhere. So that has played a large role in me becoming a musician as well

How did you come up with the name of your band and what does it mean to you?

I was changing my name and writing under different pseudonyms for a long time, dj poolboi just came to me one day and that was the one that stuck, it has no meaning in particular

Tell me about your most memorable shows.

This European tour I’ve been on has been incredible, the people have been amazing and seeing the sights and crowds have all been very memorable

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

I don’t really have a favorite, there are venues that I prefer back home but really it all comes down to how good the sound/ mixing is. Some venues are certainly better than others for that

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

I’d be too afraid to work with the greats, but if I could bring back one person to play a show with I would’ve been honored to do a show with Daniel Johnston

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into playing in a band and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

Just keep playing and writing. Don’t compare yourself to other people’s success or sound. And be prepared for rejection, don’t let it get you down when someone tells you you’re not ready. Just keep playing, practicing, and writing

If you could go back in time and give yourselves advice, what would it be?

Just try and relax. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, don’t worry about failure

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?

It’s a cheesy answer but they all mean the most to me or I wouldn’t have written them. There are certainly the more popular ones but I don’t love those any more than anything else I’ve done.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

“Like we were the last two people on earth” is the most requested I think. It’s also one I really enjoy playing,

What is the creative process for the band, and what inspires you to write your music?

Usually I write very late at night or very early in the morning. Often it’s when I’m feeling good and well rested, I like to sit down when I’m feeling inspired and just started playing chords. Then I develop melodies or a rhythm and see where it takes me. Inspiration comes and goes, movies, music, art, and just life in general inspire me

What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?

Mostly just one of hope. That when you’re in your worst moments things can get better

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

My sophomore album “stay just a little while longer” is finally out now after a very long writing process. And I’m looking forward to getting back out there on tour playing shows across America and Europe"

Thanks again for your interest and support!

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