Q&A with Myles Maxwell
Nov. 13, 2021
Where did you grow up and where do you call home now?
Grew up in New York, then moved down to North Carolina, now I call Los Angeles home. I’d like to think that the local flavors lend themselves to my musical stylings as well.
How long have you been making music?
I’ve been creating music for close to 20 years now, the early stuff… we don’t have to talk about. But, it’s a process, always learning, always growing.
In what genre would you categorize your music and how would you describe the songs you create?
Rock music, all kinds of rock. It's Honest and self aware. They’re mostly stories from my past, from a clearer perspective that comes with time.
What can you tell us about your latest release "Definitely Not A Werewolf"?
It's a collection of songs that describe life in my late 20’s. From heartbreak, to protest. All things that made me who I am today.
Who inspired you to make music?
I grew up in a very musical household. Everyone sang, music was constantly being played, almost everyone in my family is/was a musician at one point, so it always just made sense for me to do.
Do you make music by yourself, or collaborate with other musicians?
I tend to make music by myself, I used to write songs with my brother, but he has a family now, and music isn’t his focus. So, I try to remember the parts of songs that he would alter, along with former band mates, and if it sounds like something I’d like, I add it to the song.
Who would you most like to collaborate with?
If I could collaborate with Dave Grohl… I’d die a happy man.
Which famous musicians do you admire the most?
Kendrick Lamar, David Bowie, Kanye West, Freddy Mercury. They all transformed their genre of music in a way that hadn’t been done before them, in my opinion.
Which one of your songs would you most like to make a video for?
"The Heartbreak Song" would be very fun. Someone planted the idea of a dating game show gone awry in my head, and it fits the song in.
What is your creative process like?
Chaos, absolute chaos. I try to keep myself physically active, because it breaks through to clutter in my mind, and simplifies what I need to do next. But, for the most part, I just throw whatever at the wall and watch what sticks. As time goes on, and my skills grow, the more gets thrown.
Do you prefer studio or performing live and why?
Performing live: it’s a communal activity, you give the energy to the crown, you take from them. It’s a big gathering, and that, to me, is what music is all about.
What is your favorite song to perform live?
The Heartbreak Song. It brings out the child in me, onstage.
Have you ever dealt with performance anxiety?
There have been a few times where I had anxiety onstage, but I tell myself “you’re here, just go ahead and do it” and it calmed me down every time.
If you could open a show for any artist who would it be?
I would love to open for Phoebe Bridgers.
Are you currently earning a comfortable living from your music?
No, but for now, that’s fine. I’m enjoying creating, sharing, and growing my craft.
Who would you consider to be a non-music influence?
Andy Serkis (actor) his ability to transform into any role is inspiring.
What is the most useless talent you have?
I can lick my elbow.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Just keep working. Consistency is the process, and also the goal.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
That without their support, I would be creating. As much as they appreciate my music, I appreciate them 10 times more.
What advice do you have for someone who wants to follow in your footsteps?
Just go ahead and do it. Take one small step at a time, and eventually those steps will grow.
What’s next for you?
Going to have one or two more releases then start doing shows again.