Pop-rock artist Brenden Starr has just released his take on "The Freshmen" by The Verve Pipe. Brenden manages to modernize the track, first released in 1996, but also succeeds in staying true to it's sound. If this modern interpretation is any indication of Brenden's potential, this is one artist to keep an eye on. I got to chat with him recently about his journey, his inspirations, and more! Read on for more about this alternative/pop/rock artist on the rise!
MSM: Tell me about your journey with creating music. How did you get started, and what first ignited that passion for you?
BRENDEN: I grew up around a family of musicians and singers. My uncle and grandparents were country singers and traveled to Nashville. I got started with playing drums at a young age, highly influenced by rock and metal. I always sang any chance I could get, practicing Michael Jackson and 90's pop songs. I started a band in high school, writing songs any chance I could at home or in detention for skipping school to go hang out with my favorite bands in town.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they helped to shape your sound?
First, Steve Perry of Journey. I would practice singing all of their greatest hits album, just singing, pushing my vocals. Chester of Linkin Park has shaped some of my vocal tone as well, and my favorite pop singer is Darren Hayes of Savage Garden. I've studied his techniques for years.
How do you approach the songwriting process, and from where do you draw inspiration?
My process tends to happen more in the studio with me going through pages of stories to piece together one big one, and sometimes I write to beats first.
How do you stay inspired and creative, especially when facing writer's block?
I watch a movie or listen to random music.
Why did you choose to cover “The Freshmen”? Does it have any particular memories for you?
Yes, it does have a soft spot for my grade school memories about a girl and hanging out with friends in my neighborhood, running around my town.
You have played with a wide variety of musicians over the past years. Are there any words of wisdom that you have collected along the way?
I did a few dates with national artist Scotty Austin; we had a show in Long Island, New York, that the venue did not promote well, so it was a bad night for attendance. The next night in Pittsburgh, he pulled me aside and said to give 100% even if there are 2 people in the room; it happens sometimes, and it's just the nature of the business. I took it to heart, and it's been very motivating ever since that day.
What are you most excited about with your upcoming tour in March?
Meeting new fans, and just getting out to new markets to share my voice and music.
What’s your motto or some good advice that you live by?
I like to live for the moment, be a risk taker, take some chances, follow your dreams, and roll the dice sometimes.
What would you do differently if you were to start over again from day one?
I would have focused on sports, preferably martial arts and competing.
What artists have been inspiring you the most lately?
Dayseeker is one of go to’s, along with Sleep Theory.
Lastly, what would you say to any potential new fans about why they should check you out?
I'm a very real artist. I try new things with my music, and experiment with ideas. I try to write big singalong songs that bop, and I have great stories to tell with relatable and inspiring lyrics.
