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Emerging from the vibrant underground music scene, Yxngxr1 has taken the industry by storm with their captivating blend of indie-pop, alternative, and electronic influences. Their music has resonated with listeners worldwide, garnering critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. In this exclusive interview, Yxngxr1 delves into their musical journey, inspirations, and future plans, offering a glimpse into the mind of a true creative force.
Your new album, Front Porch, is described as "Americana-tinged indie-pop wrapped in sweet nostalgia." What inspired you to take this direction with your sound? I think i’m just madly in love with everyone in that sentence. I really got to experience American life over the summer and i wanted to write a project about that. Even in the moment, everything feels so nostalgic. It’s such a fun place to be and it’s a brilliant muse for an album.
The title track, "Front Porch," sets the tone with its upbeat pop-punk energy. What memories or experiences did you draw on when writing this song? Honestly i wanted to make a rock n roll song. It doesn’t really sound like one but watching bands like The Beatles and Oasis really inspired that song and threw it into that direction. I’m so excited to play that song live and have people rage to it.
"Newsy Neighbour" is a funkier and more groove-driven track. What was your approach to balancing the different musical styles on the album? I just love that bass line on it. It’s CRAZY! I think it also fits in well with the nostalgic feel with the old sounding guitars. I love that song with my whole heart. It was so fun to write too. It opened my brain up a little more.
The music video for "Newsy Neighbour" is said to capture the essence of the album's theme of "ignoring everything bad in life until it all eventually catches up to you." Can you elaborate on this theme and how it plays out throughout the album? The album itself starts off really happy and bouncy but end really sad and melancholic. It’s about living in the moment but also you’re not gonna have this feeling again. It’s life.
"Nostalgia Calls" is a trip down memory lane. What specific memories or places did you revisit when writing this song? Utah! That place is so dreamy. That’s all i was thinking about when i wrote that song. Just everything about that place, i don’t even know where i’d even begin. Just so many fond memories there with amazing people.
"Budapest" is a more experimental and envelope-pushing track. What inspired you to take risks with this song? Budapest was the easiest song to write, it just came out of nowhere, it was so weird. I think just the sound of it is very indie pop. also really fun to play live may i add. The song itself is about wanting to go back home, and is the turning point if the album where it starts to turn sad too.
"Walter White" is a playful tribute to the Breaking Bad character. What do you admire about Walter White, and how did you translate his qualities into the song? I like how risky he is. His whole character is essentially "ignoring everything bad in life until it all eventually catches up to you." He fits the album just perfect.
"Melted Coffee" provides a cheerful change of pace. What inspired you to write a song about coffee? You know what, I genuinely could not sleep because i had a bunch of caffeine at like 8pm and i was just in my room writing songs and that popped out. It was quite literally the work of caffeine hahahaha.
The album closes with the downtempo tunes "Leaving?" and "Back Garden." What emotions do you hope these songs evoke in listeners? Just pure sadness. The album is over. It’s a sad time. We’re all getting older and moving on with our lives. it’s a sad time.
"Back Garden" includes an inventive nod to Tribe Called Quest. Can you explain your connection to this group and how it influenced the song? I really loved that bass line again and it fits so well with the sadness of the end of the album. It’s quite literally the opposite of the song we made. I think there’s something quite beautiful about it.
You've been described as a true product of the internet generation. How has the internet played a role in your musical development and success? I think being online just means you can engage with everyone all the time wherever you are. It gives people the feeling of closeness towards myself and the music.
Despite your heady rise to success, you've continued to challenge yourself in the studio. What motivates you to keep pushing the envelope and breaking boundaries? Just the love for making music. Nothing more than that.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as an independent artist? I think believing in myself. Everything i do, i do with my heart and when people don’t like a certain album or song it really hits me there.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are pursuing their dreams? Keep creating and putting music out. It’s the only way people will hear it!
You're set to support Glaive on his upcoming European tour. What are you most excited about for this tour? Everything! We’re currently on our way to Brussels as we speak to play another set! It’s all been so so so fun!
What can fans expect from your live performances? Lots of fun. It’s more about the music than moshing and getting rowdy. the songs we’re playing are really heartfelt.
What are your plans for the future? Are there any upcoming projects you can share? I’m currently working on another project too, and planning on doing a tour in EU and USA. The future is looking really bright! IM REALLY EXCITED FOR IT.
Words by Sal F.
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