What was the beginning point for your music career? How did it all start?
I’ve been a music lover practically my whole life from what I can remember. I started as a fan then progressed into actually learning music. I started playing guitar in 9th grade as it was an easy credit for school and fell in love with it. I was in and out of bands all through high school and into my early 20’s mainly playing guitar. I always sang but never in public or had the courage and confidence to do so. That changed when I auditioned as a singer for my first serious band and had nothing but positive feedback from them. So naturally I transitioned into being a front man for many years. I still love to write and play guitar but when performing live I’m always singing solo front and center.
Was there any bumps on the road? What kind of challenges did you have to deal with?
I luckily had a pretty easy transition into performing and writing music. I had a lot of friends who were into music luckily so there was always people to play with and learn from. When it came to maintaining a band and being able to grow with those bandmates, that’s when it became challenging. Bands are relationships, not with just one significant other but 4-5. I found keeping a band together and on the same page for a length of time became the most challenging part of it all. Even though the music may be great and we have fun writing and performing, there was always something that corroded away any progress we had made.
What was the most fulfilling and satisfying moment so far?
I think for most musicians alike, we would say just having fans that connect with the music. With social media, fans have access to you 24/7. I think it’s awesome to hear from people about what songs have spoken to them and how they help to promote you to other music fans. To me that’s the biggest compliment and most satisfying.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Meaningful, Hopeful, Positive. Although some of my songs are a bit heavier on the rock side, lyrically they have a positive message.
What is your creative process like?
It varies. Simple as that. I find I write a lot of music out of boredom or when I’m seeking mindfulness. I never have a set process of how I write my music. If I were to be told to sit down and write something on the spot, I would find it difficult. I sing a lot of ideas into my phone daily at many random times to record them, then break those down into actual songs or hooks.
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
Without getting too negative or in depth, financial compensation from the streaming services. Your readers can do a quick Google search and understand what I mean by that comment.
If you were asked to give a piece of advice to upcoming bands, what would that be?
Mainly have fun, but mostly make sure you get along with every single one of your bandmates. Having solid friendships and open conversation within a band will build your trust and bond with the group. Bands are relationships, and just like relationships sometimes they don’t always work out.
What has been the best performance of your career so far?
My honest answer is any performance that I can come off stage and pat myself on the back. We are only human and have off nights just like any other performer will. You can either take it to heart and let it overwhelm you or reassure yourself you’ll do better next time.
If you didn’t become a musician, what would you be doing now?
That’s a scary thought, ha. I think I’d probably be married, have kids, own a house, have lots of debt and work at some random company that doesn’t even know I’m an employee there. Sound familiar anyone?
Satire ?
What is new with the band at the moment? What are you currently working on and would like to share with the world?
For anyone struggling with Addiction, Mental Health, Loneliness, Relationships….
My latest single ‘A Sun That Doesn’t Rise’ was written on the basis of all these life hurdles that the everyday person deals with on the inside. This song goes out to all those who continue to push on in life through the pain, sorrow, and darkness. I wrote this song from life experience and hope it resonates with people from all walks of life. There can be no light without darkness. Being a Mental Health Advocate I preach positivity daily, and through the lyrics of this song I hope the listener will find some type of solace in my words.
I’m building a new hashtag to use on all social media in hopes of spreading positivity to all others who selflessly battle. Please use #ContinueToStrive to help promote this movement.
Thanks for your time, Craig Ewan
