In this interview spotlight, I chat with Nashville based songwriter Simon George about his latest release, challenges, technology and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)

 I was born in Arlington, TX but grew up in Franklin, TN (about 20 minutes south of Nashville down I65), and I like to describe the music I write as Southern Folk Psych Rock for the thinking man (or woman : )).

What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?

Both my parents are from Kentucky and grew up in the 60’s, so I was raised listening to a lot of Southern Rock and Classic Rock, on top of a lot of singer songwriters. Artists like Skynyrd, Zeppelin, Floyd, Neil Young, James Taylor, and Bob Seger all had a huge influence on me, and in turn, bands like My Morning Jacket and songwriters like Jason Isbel. 

I was an athlete when I was younger, so I’ve always been pretty self motivated. But I’m also driven to further explore my connection to others built through my music and the written word, and I feel like my best work is yet to come. 

How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?

My first album I wrote mostly when I was around 20 years old going to school in Chattanooga, most of this album was written in my late 20’s while I was living in and exploring Texas and the Western parts of the US. Mostly I was just trying to distinct growth and new direction from my first album, both as a musicians and as a man, as well as create a portfolio of work I could really be proud of and that really represented who I am as a musician and a songwriter. 

Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?

Well, the hardest thing is just getting peoples’ attention. There’s a lot of talented folks out there and it can be really difficult just to stand out, given the barrier to getting your music out there is so much lower now. That being said, the ability to reach hundreds of millions of people world wide in an instant is invaluable. The challenge is learning how to harness and direct it.

What was the last song you listened to?

I’ve been stuck on some 90’s country lately, so a little bit of Garth Brooks, but that train usually leads me down the Jim Croce path.

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

Vinyls, then MP3’s, then CD’s.

How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why? 

Generally, I try to send people where I think most of them already are, so I try to turn people to my Spotify as much as possible. 

Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?

Instagram! @simongeorgemusic

Anything else before we sign off? 

Please check out my Spotify and don’t forget to follow my artist account! Also follow me on Instagram for free content and updates!