“Nothing Really Changes” is the first single to follow Dawson Fuss’s debut EP Edge of Adolescence, marking an evolution and maturation of his sound and thematic material, as he enters the final months of his senior year of high school. Listeners will relate to this track as its message focuses on the transition from childhood to adulthood and the struggles that follow. “I grew up believing that as soon as I blew out the candles on my 18th birthday, the shackles of childhood would be broken…The problems I’d faced previously didn’t magically disappear, yet in reality, they became larger and more pressing,” said Fuss about the track.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Dawson about the new music, technology, adapting during lock downs and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and how do You describe your style of music?

I’m from Santa Barbara, California, and I would describe my music as alt/indie-pop.

How did you get here? As in, what inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?

I started singing from before I could remember, and continued to perform for my friends and family as I grew up. I didn’t really take music seriously until middle school. I wrote my first original song in eighth grade, and though I never want to hear that awful song ever again, it was what sparked my passion for music. Since then, I kept writing and meeting new producers and writers to help me improve my skills. I would say my parents also motivated me to pursue music, because although they are not musical whatsoever (sorry Mom and Dad,)  they saw how happy it made me and have been incredibly supportive of my journey and kept pushing me to keep going.

How does your latest project compare/contrast with your previous release(s)? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation?

I would say my new single, “Nothing Really Changes,” is different from my previous music because the content matter is a bit darker than what I usually write about. It’s about the reality of becoming an adult and the disappointment from learning that my 18th birthday isn’t the magical celebration of freedom I’d expected. My producer Yaron and I also explored more rock/alt references when producing the song, so there are definitely hints of that sprinkled in the production.

Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented times? How did you adapt? How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?

I think the biggest challenge I faced during the pandemic was the isolation both physically and emotionally. Obviously, I couldn’t physically get into the studio for a while, which at first was difficult, but it forced me to learn how to track my own vocals, and challenged me  to do more stuff on my own. I think the extra time I had with online school helped to give me the space to explore myself as a person and as an artist. There was really nothing expected of me, so I had that ability to take the time for introspection.

What was the last song you listened to?

“Iris” by The Goo Goo Dolls:) I’ve been super into alternative rock lately, and this song ascends me to a different realm. 

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?

I love vinyl!! My dad has a huge record collection from when he was my age, and we try to find time every weekend to sit down and listen to a couple of his favorite albums, which is always a highlight of my week:)

Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?

You can listen to my music on all platforms under my name, Dawson Fuss, check out my music videos on YouTube, follow me on social media @dawsonfuss, and check out my website dawsonfuss.com

I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?

Thanks for having me! It was a pleasure:)) I hope you all enjoy “Nothing Really Changes!”