Introducing…. ttwig
Click Roll Boom: Tell me about how you got started
ttwig: I’ve been making music since I was 10 years old, starting with trumpet in the school jazz band. From there I picked up drums. In high school, I started making beats & rapping. In college, I bought my first guitar & started singing more/writing my own songs. I’ve been immersing myself in all genres of music along the way and have picked up every instrument I come across. It’s a beautiful thing having tons of influences/styles come together to form a new sound. That has been the journey in finding my voice as ttwig.
CRB: How would you describe your sound, and how has it evolved since you first started?
ttwig: Grounded in nostalgia. The sound of ttwig is an inner monologue breaking from the cocoon. The color orange. The feeling of being immersed in water. The truth that lies in a pair of eyes. Music you’ve never heard, but still remember.
CRB: Who or what have been some of your biggest influences, musically and beyond?
ttwig: Radiohead, Andy Shauf, The Beatles, Dilla, Stereolab, The Sea & Cake, Alan Watts & all of my friends to name a few :)
CRB: What does your songwriting process typically look like – is it a more individual or collaborative effort?
ttwig: I love to collaborate but the ttwig process is a solo effort. I usually start noodling with chords on my guitar and hum-navigate some melodies. From there, a song will appear and then I build it accordingly with other instruments. I love arranging.
CRB: How do you approach experimenting with new sounds or ideas when creating music?
ttwig: Experimenting with new sounds is my favorite. It’s such an awesome way to spark inspiration & think outside the box. I especially love fiddling with guitar pedals.
CRB: How do you prepare for live shows, and what do you aim to bring to your performances?
ttwig: Lots of water/tea. I also, without fail, poop right before I go on stage. I really aim to transmute all of my energy into the performance and hope to inspire those who listen.
CRB: How do you balance creative expression with staying connected to your audience?
ttwig: I think they go hand in hand. It’s awesome to create something in solitude born from a certain emotion/energy/intention. I like to think that these things are permanently imprinted within the song for eternity. I think it’s the artists’ job to try & capture that same emotion/energy when they perform the song. Authenticity is really crucial in art. It’s what connects us all.
CRB: What do you hope listeners take away from your work?
ttwig: Again, I just really hope it inspires people. Whether that’s the push for them to go create or reconnect with someone or take a chance. It’s a chain reaction I hope expands far beyond what the eye can see.
CRB: What can you tell us about your new release Hang Ten Colors to Catch the Sun?
ttwig: This record is meant to be played uninterrupted; front to back. Maybe in the car. Maybe on the beach. Maybe in your bedroom with a candle lit and your eyes closed (just don’t burn down your house). In this fast paced world, I think it’s important to keep intentional listening alive. There’s a whole slew of experiences, lessons and stories in this music. It could mean something completely different to you than it does to me, but that’s really cool. I hope you find the time to dive in.
CRB: What does the future hold for you – any plans or goals you’re excited about?
ttwig: More music!