After breaking through with his much-loved debut single 'Write These Wrongs' last year, LA-based artist Jason Nott is back on the grind once again to deliver his breezy new offering 'I Was Dating All My Friends'.
Capturing more of that bright and sun-kissed pop-rock aesthetic he is building for himself, 'I Was Dating All My Friends' makes for an incredibly fun and lively listen. With its warm and inviting textures perfectly set to his vibrant vocal performance throughout, he continues to shine as one of the more exciting names on the rise right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Growing up there was always a guitar in the house so naturally that was my first choice, but I didn’t get serious until I was 10.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Billy Joel was not only my first concert at 7 years old but he’s the first artist I remember falling in love with, my mom and I bonded over his music.
What was the first album you remember owning?
It was either The Beach Boys greatest hits or Dude Ranch by Blink 182, both had a profound impact on me. The Beach Boys taught me pop hooks and harmonies and Blink 182 showed me that guitar could be accessible even to a beginner.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
“Road To Joy” by Bright Eyes. I love the idea of an upbeat and positive sounding song contrasted by very dark lyrics.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I sip matcha green tea and put a movie with the sound off in the background. I've always done that because it feels less lonely.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Lately I’ve been going back to my favourite high school bands like The Blood Brothers and Taking Back Sunday but I also love newer artists like Porches and The Last Dinner Party. I saw TLDP when they played their first show in Los Angeles last fall, they’re such an exciting new group.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Grouplove because they radiate fun and positivity, their shows are always a party and their crowd just seem like good folks.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
When I’m on tour there’s no greater feeling than playing a good show and connecting with the audience. It’s the absolute best feeling in the world. OR finishing a new song, nothing beats that new demo feeling.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part, in my experience, is playing with people that aren’t fully committed or don’t have the same goals in mind. While I strive to have fun and be happy, I take what I do very seriously – it’s an enormous amount of work but to me it’s worth it.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
As a songwriter: listen to your instincts, no one knows your music like you do. Also, if you’re a lyricist, never stop reading or stimulating your mind. Experience things that make you uncomfortable because you have no choice but to grow from it.
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Jason Nott's new single 'I Was Dating All My Friends' is out now. Check it out in the player below.