How did you get your initial start in music?
I’ve always been passionate about arts and music. I started playing drums at the age of 18 and quickly felt the need to turn my own words/poems/lyrics into melodies. I then fell in love with guitar playing and vintage instruments.
What would be your ultimate aim in the industry?
Being “recognized” as an authentic artist making a living out of his passion. Having the chance to release my forthcoming records with the help of my favourite engineers and producers. Why not, getting a record deal?
How long have you been writing your own music?
I’ve been writing my own songs for more than 25 years now.
Who are your top three influences and why?
Tom Petty: all time favourite voice, unique charisma, his incredible talent to combine 5-star songwriting and hit records making.
Townes Van Zandt: all time greatest songwriter (with close friend and mentor Tucker Zimmerman).
Neil Young: his songwriting and guitar playing… Maybe the biggest influence when I think of putting down a new track…
Is there anything you would like people to know about your current release?
The core of “Call Me the Moon” has been recorded on two tracks, in my bedroom turned into a small home studio, using a two-channel pre, a two-channel converter, a bunch of vintage mics and a couple of plug-in’s for the mixing process.
The challenge was to try to make a “real” record with a very tight budget, keeping the very first takes as final tracks.
The album is an ode to friendship, soulmates, karmic journeys, hope, faith, fate, rebirth…
Where are you based and what’s your local scene like? Any favourite venues?
Los Angeles & Belgium (Liège). Sometimes NYC.
No folk-rock local scene in Belgium.
I don’t really know LA & NY local scenes.
Favourite venues in LA: Largo, The Troubadour, The Saint Rocke, The Viper Room etc.
Favourite venues in NY: The Bowery Electric etc.
Give our readers a round up of where they can find you online and hear more of your music.
My music in available on all the digital platforms: iTunes, Bandcamp, Amazon, Spotify etc.
I’ve got an official website featuring all the links and info:
www.oakesmusic.com