I’m a city guy – always have been, probably always will be. But once in a while I get an itch to leave the concretejungle and venture out into the vast nature that is BC. I never really thought about how this affects me musically, but it turns out your surroundings really can have a profound affect on your musical direction.
I recently caught up with another songwriter who can relate. Singer/Songwriter Oliver Delorie aka Oliver the World informed me that he just moved from Victoria to Brentwood Bay and I thought I would take this opportunity to ask him a few questions. What’s good about living in a small town as a musician? What’s not so good? How do nature and grizzly bears and mountaintops all contribute to your songs? Here is how the interview transpired:
NS: What are your musical experiences like in Brentwood Bay so far?
OTW: Brentwood Bay is full of musicians.They hide all winter and then in the spring they come out and play at coffee houses, in the park, and at parties. Songwriting tends to be a solitary experience for me, though when it's time to play for others, I find I connect with like-minded folks. As far as Industry goes, Brentwood Bay is a quiet, little place, good for staying anonymous and out of the limelight.
NS: What are the advantages/ disadvantages of living in a smaller community as opposed to a major urban centre as a performing artist?
OTW: There are many advantages to living in a smaller community as opposed to a major urban center. I'm a big fish in a small pond. There are more opportunities to ROCK, because there's less competition. Usually rent is cheaper, so you don't have to work as much, and you can write more songs, book more shows, and save money for that tour bus and better gear. Another perk is you can think clearer 'caus e the air's not all filled up with other people's thoughts, whatever they may be.
As far as disadvantages go, Nellie Furtado and Nickelback don't hang out in little towns looking for co-writers, new material or opening bands for their next tour, if that's what you're into. But seriously, no matter what your musical aspirations, believe in yourself, play everyday, make connections with people you respect and who respect you, be professional and have fun!
NS: What about venues? Small towns don’t usually have a lot to choose from, do they?
OTW: Creating your own venue is a great idea. Talk to local business owners, art galleries, coffee shops, etc and present them with an opportunity that benefits the both of you. You're a musician. Be creative! House parties are always fun. You make new friends, and the intimate setting will get people listening, dancing or both. Also, expect the unexpected with busking. I've been busking with all kinds of instruments, with all kinds of people, in all kinds of situations, on street corners from here to there. The upside is you get to practice your songs, write new ones, get some fresh air, meet people from all over the world, have fun, and sometimes even make some money or find the love of your life.
NS: Almost everyone knows at least one musician. In a community like Brentwood Bay, what's the best way to find out who’s in your local ‘scene’?
OTW: By playing shows, by going to shows and meeting other musicians, and by asking people about what they do and telling them about what you do. You’d be surprised how many musicians you run into in everyday life.
NS: How do your surroundings or landscape affect your songwriting?
OTW: I am very influenced by the people in my life and the drama I'm half responsible for creating. Nothing exists in a vacuum. That's why I like to walk and write by myself, enjoying the peace and quiet of the countryside. Again, less congestion of the airwaves. I like to be alone to polish and rewrite my dynamite compositions. Different locations, instruments, people, food and light quality all affect my flow. I love traveling, the ability to recreate mysel f everyday, the wonderful people I meet, and the unforgettable experiences. If you haven't left North America yet, or even British Columbia for that matter, sell that beater and go!
NS: Is it still important to hit the road every now and then and do shows in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna, etc?
OTW: It depends on what you want to do with your life. I balance my career by enjoying being at home in my studio half the time, and playing shows the other half. If you're in a significant relationships or have kids, pets or plants, your priorities are likely different. Personally, I love touring, meeting new people, seeing new places, spreading the good word and growing as an artist. You need to find out what makes you happy and do it. What else is there?
NS: Well said. Do you plan on taking part in any festivals, fairs or tourist events this year?
OTW: I am in the studio right now recording my first full-length with the help of FACTOR and intend on playing the festival circuit in the summer of 2008, in support of my new album, then heading over seas to where the grass is just as green, only there's less of it, because people have built beautiful venues instead.
NS: What’s your strategy when going into a new town to do a show?
OTW: Social networking sites like MySpace, Tribe.Net, FaceBook and Craig's List are great for making connections in a new town. Seek out venues, management, accommodation and eatery reviews from other acts, touring friends and contact local media and send press releases out well in advance, and recruit some eager fans to poster for you. Remember to reward them with free merchandise. And send thank-you cards when it's all over.
NS: BC has such rugged landscapes and everything for the outdoorsytype. Is there any way to take advantage of this with my music career?
OTW: Write songs about bears. Or mountains. Or both! Become an outdoorsy type. Play shows in little towns. Being the only event for miles, the turn-out will be awesome. Be sure to have lots of merch for s ale and your digital camera to take pics of the crowd. Post them on your website for the hungry wolves of vanity who will come around looking for more.
NS: Thank you for your time, Oliver. Is there anything else you would like to add to the readers out there? I will definitely be visiting Brentwood Bay sometime soon!
OTW: Little towns are great, but if you want to play the big shows, get out there and tour, tour, tour! You can stay at my place, Nathan.
Oliver the World is a singer, songwriter, composer and multiinstrumentalist living the good life on Vancouver Island. Email olivertheworld@canada.com for info & upcoming dates.
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