MNYS - Sound In The Signals Interview
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| Skyler Barberio |
I recently had the opportunity to interview MNYS. We discussed how the acronym MNYS pays homage to an old project, writing and recording new song, “i was a pilot once”, songwriting, being on Pure Noise Records, the vision for the project, upcoming shows, how music videos differ from the live performance, what to expect in 2022, and more. Check it out below.
To begin, can you tell us more about the meaning behind MNYS?
When I first started making music, I had an acoustic project called “My New York Summer.” I was learning how to write/record and put everything out on MySpace. As I learned more about songwriting - I fell into writing/producing for other artists, putting the project on the back burner. A few years later, I wanted to put music out for myself again. I used the acronym MNYS - paying homage to my old project.
You recently released your new song, “i was a pilot once”. Can you tell me about writing and recording the song?
“i was a pilot once” was a metaphor I came up with for the fearlessness in my teenage self. There’s something really special about not knowing anything about the music industry and all of the things that come with it. I used to dream that I’d have the same friend group and people around me as I did when I first started making music. Life happened and we all grew apart from each other - different goals, priorities, etc set in for each of us.
I came up with a line, “I was never scared of crashing, just landing without you” and built the rest of the song around that. I always knew I was all-in on music, and was never worried I’d give it up. I was more worried that the people I cared about the most wouldn’t be there for the ride.
What’s your writing process like usually? Do you generally like to start with music or lyrics first?
I usually start with a progression or guitar riff that is catchy. I want it to be just as “hooky” as the vocal melody. Then I tend to think of a phrase or concept I want to touch on and tell the story around it.
You signed with Pure Noise and you’ve been with the label for a little while now. Why did you decide to sign with them and how has your experience been so far?
I’ve been a fan of what Jake and the team have been building for years now & a lot of the stuff I grew up on came out through them. Why signed to them - I think for me, it was their understanding of what I was creating. Sort’ve this blend of emo/electronic.
I grew up on pop/punk and relate so much to a lot of it. Stylistically - I vocally don’t sound like those bands but fans hear the influence in my writing. I also love the electronic elements of modern production. Blending the two genres didn't make sense to people a few years ago, I'm amped to see more people embracing it and people seeing my vision for the project.
It’s been amazing working with PN! I just want to continue to put music out and build out the project - the right way and not skip any steps. Having their full support is all I could want from a label.
When can we expect to see you playing more shows? What can fans expect from your live performance?
For the rest of this year, fans get two more shows in Los Angeles! The next show is on November 18th at the Moroccan Lounge with Carpool Tunnel, then planning something special for December. If you've seen my music videos for every release, my live set is the complete opposite. I play with a full band and think hearing the music live is the best way to understand the vision of the project and its musical intentions.
So, anyone and everyone who is in Los Angeles on Nov 18 needs to come check it out :)
What artists or bands would you like to tour or play shows with in the future?
Wow, so many! The list is endless. My favorite band is The Used - so I guess I can start there. I can see myself playing with bands like Neck Deep/Real Friends but also more alt-pop artists like Oliver Tree.
What’s coming up for you in 2022?
More music and hopefully a tour! I have no dates in stone yet but definitely want to get on the road and play all the songs we’ve worked so hard on creating. The past few months have been a lot of self-discovery and showing that to everyone is all I want to do, growth is key.
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