How did it feel when “Let Me Down Slowly” hit 100m streams? Did you foresee the success?
It was incredible. I always believed in the song so to know that my fans have enjoyed it and have shown me so much support has been so humbling.
How did the collab with Alessia Cara come about?
We met on Twitter actually! Both of our fans kept saying we should work together and I noticed she mentioned one of my songs in an interview so I reached out and we started talking about a collaboration. Alessia is so talented and I’m so happy with the way everything turned out.
You built your brand almost single-handedly by performing ‘parking lot shows’ and handing out business cards after you got dropped by your first label. What inspired you to keep going with such admirable determination after that setback?
I knew that making music was the only thing I wanted to do, so it wasn’t really an option for me to stop. So I thought to myself, “if people won’t come listen to my music yet, I’ll just have to bring the music to them.” People who would potentially like my music were waiting in line for Shawn Mendes and Troye Sivan concerts so I thought that was a great place to start. Everyone around me was also really supportive which helped me along the way.
What got you into music in the first place?
I always loved to write songs and wanted to learn how to play guitar so I taught myself off YouTube. I drew a lot of inspiration from what was happening around me and artists like John Mayer and Jason Mraz to make my own songs.
What emotions do you hope your music creates?
I hope my music creates a lot of different emotions. I write about very real things that happen in life. So, if anything, I hope my fans can relate to my songs.
What’s the best and worst part about creating new music?
The best and worst part about creating new music is finding the inspiration to do so. Some days I am so inspired that I will write and write. And then there are times that I have blocks or am just not feeling like writing. Balancing that can be tough.
You’re going on a UK and EU tour this year. Are you looking forward to life on the road?
I’m excited! I love performing live for my fans. Being on the road in Europe and the UK is so cool because I get to see new places I might not have ever seen otherwise and meet fans in places I’d never thought I would.
What are you working on at the moment?
I’m currently on tour and am working on more music! I can’t wait to see my fans at these shows and for everyone to hear all of the new songs I’m finishing up.