In Conversation with grentperez: Debut Album, fan stories and going with the flow.
Your latest music has such a warm and nostalgic feel. What’s been inspiring your sound lately?
Hmm, I’d say that yes, a lot of music that I’d listened to as a kid has been inspiring me, a lot of 2000s RnB. I’ve been wanting to take strides into an rnb-esque world.
A lot of your songs feel effortlessly smooth, almost like they were made in one perfect take. What’s your actual songwriting process like?
Haha, I can assure you that there is quite a bit of trial and error. But the process typically goes instrumental i.e. Chord progression > hum melody > mouth out sonic word sounding noises > write lyrics that fit the mood > beef up the song. I tend to write about stories previously told to me, I try to capture the feelings of those stories.
If your latest track had a smell or flavour, what would it be?
If it were a smell, I’m thinking flowers, perfume with a slight tinge of popcorn. Movie scene.
Your music always has this timeless, comforting energy. Do you consciously try to keep your sound consistent, or do you just let it evolve naturally?
I personally try to let it evolve naturally, sometimes I can go a tad too far but, oh well, we live and we learn.
Your music has connected with so many people worldwide. Have there been any surprising fan interactions that really stuck with you?
Yes, quite a bit actually! One example that I think is really wholesome and lovely and I hope they’re still together (I’ve yet to check up) but, two of my Discord/Twitch moderators started talking, and eventually dating, because of their online interactions, whilst managing my stuff. Haha. Pretty neat. Modern day love baby!
You’ve built such a strong online presence through casual and heartfelt content. How much of that is planned vs. just going with the flow?
Definitely going with the flow. Uggh! It’s hard man, social media is definitely a blessing and a curse. I’m just trying to do my best to navigate the platforms and make it really feel like me.
You’ve collaborated with some amazing artists. Who’s on your dream collaboration list right now?
A dream collab would sound something like a Beabadoobee, Rex Orange County, Laufey or Daniel Caesar.
Your music is often described as ‘feel-good.’ What’s something that instantly boosts your mood when you’re feeling off?
A good drive perhaps, taking a break from my current scenery. Maybe even just lay down in the backyard. Soak in that sun.
My signature question in every interview: what is your current coffee order?!
HAH. me no drink coffee :( hot chocolate… with oat milk.