by tiffany arunarsirakul
photo courtesy of austn
Electronic pop sensation AUSTN focuses his music into his songwriting, opening a world of emotions inspired by his own experiences with love and life. With his latest single "Touch," AUSTN focuses on new love and catching feelings where this song is "based around the concept of somewhat toxic, but mesmerizing lust that you just can't get enough." With this interview, AUSTN talks about his music, personal life, as well as offering some valuable advice and insight.
How would you describe yourself?
AUSTN: “I would describe myself as one of a kind. Which sounds cliché, but I truly [believe] we are all very unique in our own special ways. I have never met anyone like me. I love to be adventurous and be outdoors doing things that most people would think are crazy, but I also love to stay very in touch, and vulnerable with my emotional side which enables me to write songs!”
What was your inspiration for "Touch?”
A: “‘Touch’ was originally inspired by the atmosphere of the guitar chords you hear at the beginning, and all throughout the song. Almost instantly when I first heard those chords I knew that this song would be based around the concept of somewhat toxic, but mesmerizing lust that you just can't get enough.”
How often do you go back home to Oregon? Are you still in touch with your childhood friends?
A: “I am actually currently in Oregon while writing this! I am here most of the time, but I am planning to move down to LA very soon, which I am very excited about. I do still keep in touch, and hang out with a lot of my childhood friends on a day to day basis while they are still some of my best friends. It's not too common to meet people like my friends back home who work, ski, skate, and sneak into neighborhood hot tubs all in the same day.”
What are some things that you have learned throughout the pandemic?
A: “The pandemic was a much needed time of self reflection and introspection for me. I found myself becoming a lot closer with myself, and listening to myself more than I used to as I was isolated like many of us for a long time. I was able to solve a few problems in my mind, and find inspiration that I never knew I needed. As shitty as it [is], it was also in another way a blessing for me.”
When creating music, what thoughts are going through your head?
A: “When writing songs or creating any sort of music, there is a lot of imagery going on in my mind. It's hard to explain but I'll try my best. Typically I find myself with a notepad, ukulele, or guitar in hand when I am or have been feeling a significant feeling that would sound great in a song, or that I just simply need to get off my chest. I love to go into storyteller mode. Including cool words, rhyming, and imagery to help the listener connect and feel as much as possible.”
Do you prefer intimate shows or large venue shows? Why?
A: “I think there are cool qualities to both. With a large venue you really feel like you are living out your rockstar dreams, it is quite a rush. Surprisingly it's actually less nerve-racking for me to play a large venue than a smaller venue. But with a small venue, although it's more nerve-racking, you are able to connect and become a lot more intimate with your audience, which I feel like I take more away from at the end of the day.”
What is some advice you would like to give those aspiring to enter the music industry?
A: “If it is truly what makes you happiest, never give up and never give yourself away. Although it is a bitter and corrupt business, it's your dreams we are talking about. I always like to imagine what I would think of my life if I was on my deathbed, and I know I would be damn proud of myself if I pushed through the tough shit, never gave up, and made the career I had always dreamed of.”
Anything else you would like to say to your fans? Any new works for us to anticipate?
A: “As always, thank you. I can't wait to meet you someday on the road. I am looking forward to releasing more singles, hopefully projects this summer, and maybe even getting on the road and touring soon. I hope so.”