Interview with GEREM3

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

• Music was always something I’d naturally gravitated to, but I was very shy and secretive about it until I was much older. Growing up, boys my age were into sports. I like to say I’m “athletically deficient.” So... If I weren’t into music? I’d probably be an Avenger or a Mighty Morphin Power Ranger.

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

• I’m always looking for inspiration when I’m not creating. Looking at visual art, fashion, dance. Listening to podcasts and watching documentaries. All sorts of things. The pandemic kind of thrust me into keeping myself more centered, imaginative and aware these days, which has been a huge driver for my art and overall self expression.

How long have you been making music?

• I started writing and recording music in 2006. I went to a performing arts school and during my senior year, my high school built a recording studio and offered courses for us to kind of learn the ropes.

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

• I’m based in Charlotte NC. Born and raised. Being from the south, especially the area I’m from, Rap and Gospel felt the most dominant versus R&B or Pop. I was around rappers all the time, doing features. Being in that environment definitely shaped my brand of lyricism. I tend to obsess over my writing like a battle rapper or ghost writer. Lyrics or creating a well written song have ALWAYS been important to me.

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into making music and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

• The best advice I’d give anyone who wants to pursue music and what I’m learning everyday is to find balance in all the things that this entails. First, understand that this is a business, educate yourself constantly and identify the roles you’re able to play outside of just being an artist. Secondly, cling to the joy you get from doing this. The industry can be difficult, hurtful and scary at times but focus on what makes you happy. And lastly, BE YOURSELF.

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

• My process varies. But most of the time, it starts with the title of the song. I’m very visual and minimalistic in that way. I always want my music to feel like a door my listener can walk through and they see what they interpret. I never ever write in the studio. I typically am very processed and have my groundwork set by the time I record. I’m trying to get to a place where I tackle several songs a day.

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

• I’m so ready to perform. It’s killing me. I have a love/hate relationship with being on stage but it’s like the ex I’m gonna go back to every time. I wrote a song about it called Fugitive. Haha! Speaking of which, I’m releasing a song called Apocalypse in March. This song is so special to me. I can’t wait for people to hear it, I’m so proud of it. We recently shot the video as well and it’s insane.

How can your fans best keep up to date with you, any socials you want people to check out?

• I’m all over the internet. I do more lurking than posting but I’m trying to do better. Follow me @_gerem3 on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. Follow me, talk to me. Send me recipes and cute dog videos.