IN THE SPOTLIGHT: In.Drip.

Music inexplicably connects people together, but also carries the power of self-exploration and identity. In.Drip., a Los Angeles native and singer/producer, recently released his debut single, “Titles”, on June 7; it has already garnered over 850 plays on Soundcloud. Following the release of this single is his debut EP, expected later this year.

In.Drip. generously contributed some time to give insight on the process behind creating “Titles”, recommended some restaurants in LA to try, and chats about his non-musical dreams.

Photo by Áine Rua O'Regan

What’s the story behind your talent and passion for music?

I wasn’t one of those kids that knew I wanted to do music from a super young age, but I was always drawn to it. My dad plays guitar and writes music, my brother played drums, and my mom has always been a big Motown fan, so they all rubbed off on me. Eventually, it became an outlet for any emotional issues I was dealing with...that’s when I really started writing and recording a lot.

What was the first instrument (musical or non-musical) you started making music with?

Technically, it’d be my voice. I’ve always had a love/hate relationship with singing so I’ve stopped singing a bunch of times and then I always crawl back to it after a few years. The first instrument I took seriously was guitar, when I was about 13.

You recently released your debut single, “Titles”, on June 7, 2018. What was the process of writing, recording, and producing it?

I wrote it with my friend and frequent collaborator Jaydi one autumn night in my bedroom. It all came together pretty quickly, and then from there, I started producing it, also in my bedroom. I got “Titles” to a place I thought was nice, and then my main man Devon Corey took the production to a whole other level. He made me rerecord vocals with him which I was not happy about haha, but it made a big difference.

Who are some of your prominent musical influences?

Oh man, this one is always a hard question. I always go back to Bon Iver. He is my favorite artist of all time. I’m a big fan of all that sad shit. I love Elliott Smith, Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, etc. On the flip side, I’m a huge hip hop fan. I really like the albums Nothing Was the Same and Take Care by Drake. I’m a big Kanye fan, Ty Dolla $ign, etc. Over time, I’ve gotten more into pop music, but it’s definitely not something I grew up on.

What are you currently listening to?

I’m super excited for the new YG album to come out. I love the new Grouper album. I’ve been re-visiting Crystal Castles’ first album lately. Also, I love the new Soccer Mommy album.

What are some of your favorite restaurants and/or food in LA you’d recommend?

Even though I barely eat out, this is an easy one. Carneys Restaurant, Henry’s Tacos for a Studio City classic, Joe Peeps’ NY pizza in Valley Village, Sushi 101 when I got money, Lal Mirch Indian Restaurant on Ventura Blvd., and World Empanadas in Burbank. I know that’s quite a few and they’re all in the valley, but I’m a valley kid through and through.

Who is your favorite superhero character, and why?

I like SO many and have been binge watching some Netflix superhero shows like crazy this year…but still probably Wolverine. I have a really messed up back so I tend to gravitate towards any self-healing superheroes. I also love Wolverine’s loner personality. I tend to isolate a lot, so I think I’d be a bit like him if I were in his shoes.

If there were a drink with the name “In.Drip.”, what would it consist of?

I had to stop drinking a bit ago, so I’d go with a tea. Probably builder’s tea (don’t ever take the tea bag out) with whole milk and a bit of white sugar. Gotta use Barry’s tea too. I live off that stuff.

What’s a question you would want to get asked in an interview, and what’s the response to it?

Probably “What are your dreams outside of music?”

I would say owning a farm with miniature animals (1 goat, 1 pig, 1 burro, 1 Irish wolfhound, 1 wombat, 1 small dog, and a veggie garden), having my own indoor basketball court, having my own wave pool, and being able to buy all of the fruits and veggies that I want when I go to the market. Some of these are pretty outlandish, but a boy can dream.

A massive thank you to In.Drip. for taking the time and thought to respond to the questions, and to Victoria for coordinating!

Be sure to check out his amazing sound, along with following him on Twitter (@In_Drip_), Instagram (@in_drip_), and liking him on Facebook! (/indripmusic)