Interview: Julian Sometimes
Julian Sometimes is the indie pop project of musician turned music supervisor turned musician again (and always both), Julian Drucker. Sometimes writing songs, sometimes music supervising TV shows and films, Julian has been active as a creative in various mediums. His previous original music projects include composition for a contemporary dance production at the SF Exploratorium, several short film scores, and three musicals that have been workshopped and performed in NYC and LA. The son of two classical musicians, Julian grew up immersed in music from an early age and blends many genre influences in his songs. His upcoming EP was produced by Chris Chu, formerly of The Morning Benders and now POP ETC.
What inspires your music?
A lot of my initial songwriting ideas come to me on walks. That was the case for "Buzz" and several of the upcoming songs. Something about being in motion helps me generate ideas. If I stumble upon an exciting fragment of melody or a lyric, I hum it all the way home to the piano where I can flesh it out more. Passersby may be concerned that I'm not alright.
Who are some of your influences?
My influences range quite a bit, even within pop, from growing up in the boy band era to more contemporary indie pop. In "Buzz," you'll hear the undeniable impact of Justin Timberlake as well as the vocal stylings of other mainstream pop icons like Sam Smith and, drifting a little further left-of-center, James Blake. Admittedly, my taste within the indie world was very undeveloped until I moved to LA in 2017 and began working in music supervision. Then, I started to discover a new world of influences on my songwriting and production, including artists like FKA Twigs, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Yeasayer, Half Waif, Christine and the Queens, Zola Blood, and Douglas Dare, which will become more evident in the songs to come.
Beyond just pop, my early childhood exposure to classic R&B like Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin remains a constant undercurrent. My background in musical theater composition and jazz harmony usually finds its way in as well.
What are some of your favorite memories from your career?
This chapter is just getting started! Revving up my engines and looking forward to making some new memories as Julian Sometimes.
Which of your projects do you love the most?
I chose "Buzz" as the kickoff single because of its infectious energy. Hopefully it makes you want to dance in your chair, car, or wherever you are!
Who are some of the collaborators who helped you create your favorite works?
Producer: Chris Chu (@popetc)
Mixing Engineer: Kauner Michael (@kaunermichael)
Assistant Mixing Engineer: Syd Tagle (@sydtagle)
Mastering Engineer: Théo Quayle (@theo.quayle)
Vocal Engineer: Timothy Miles (@viewsfromatim)
Cover Artwork: Alex Farias (@a.nefarias)
What are you most excited to bring to your fans next?
Next up are some more reflective songs with heavier themes. It's a vulnerable thing to go there but I think they'll resonate with people's experiences. If these songs make even one person feel less alone, it will have been worth it.
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
My main goal here is to keep making and releasing music and hope that people listen. There's a full EP on the way this year and more to come beyond that. Excited that you're here and along for the ride with me.
How can your fans and our readers best support you right now?
Stream "Buzz" to your heart's content!! Add it to your playlists, share it with friends, and stay tuned for more music!
