From having a Top 5 radio hit to performing at Lollapalooza, Michigan-native indie rock artist Jason Singer, better known as his musical alter ego Michigander, has made quite a splash with his career. With his fourth EP, It Will Never Be The Same, just days away from it’s release, the Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and producer gave the lowdown on his upcoming EP, his journey as a musician, and his approaching cross-country headlining tour.
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What is your favorite thing about music? Why is it important to you?
I love how music can make you feel like everything will be ok. I love how music can help you escape.
Have you always known you wanted to pursue a career in music? What inspired you to do so?
Ever since I was 11 years old and found my dad’s guitar, I think that’s when I knew I would be on this path.
You’ve got a new EP called It Will Never Be The Same coming out on March 31st; how do you feel as release day approaches?
I’m so so so excited. I’ve never worked so hard on a group of songs, and I’ve never had to wait this long to get them out into the world.
If you had to summarize It Will Never Be The Same in only three words, what would they be and why?
“My best yet,” because I think it’s my best work yet.
What is your creative process for songwriting? Where do you draw inspiration from?
It always changes, but for these songs, I mostly started with guitar and lyrics first. I’ve been a lot better at keeping journals and documenting ideas on my phone. Most of these songs started by humming into the voice memo app.
It Will Never Be The Same has two unreleased tracks called “Indianapolis” and “Cannonball,” is there anything you’d like to share about those songs?
They’re both songs about my wife. They’re love songs, like true, legit love songs. I don’t think I’ve ever written anything like this before. I don’t think I’ve ever loved someone like this before.
The EP’s second track, “Stay Out Of It,” is a Top 5 Radio Hit; how exciting is that for you?
It’s so cool. That stuff never gets old to me. I love radio because it puts my songs in someone’s ears who probably has never heard my music before. It’s such a privilege.
The opening track, “Superglue,” touches on being confused and second-guessing yourself; those are very personal feelings to share with the world. How important is having that raw transparency about your thoughts and emotions to you lyrically?
I think it’s so important. Now more than ever, it would be really easy to phone it in. But I think the world needs real truth. There isn’t any room left for faking it.
You broke your leg while filming the music video for “Superglue,” which pushed back the release of It Will Never Be The Same and your upcoming headlining tour of the same name. How were you feeling during that time?
It was so sad. Truly one of the lowest points of my life. It was very hard to get through it. But I’m glad to be on the other side.
Speaking of the tour, which kicks off March 28th in Phoenix, AZ, what are you most looking forward to about traveling across the country?
I’m just excited to get back out there and play these songs for people. I think it’s gonna be a really special time.
What do you most enjoy about performing live shows?
I love being able to be in the same room as the people who enjoy the stuff I’m making. It’s such a cool experience.
Are there any particular artists you would like to collaborate or tour with? If so, who are they, and why would you like to work with them?
I would love to do something with The National. They’re one of my all-time faves.
While Nashville-based, you’re originally from Michigan; how does your Nashville life differ from your one in Michigan? Is there anything you miss about your home state?
I miss Michigan a lot. Especially my family, BUT I really love living in Nashville. I love all the music that’s being made here. I love to be a part of all the collaborations.
What is the number one thing you hope to accomplish with your music in 2023?
I just want to make some good progress on making my debut full-length album and eat some good sushi.
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*HEADER PHOTO BY HANNAH HALL
