In this interview spotlight, we spend a few minutes with Ohio based indie roots rockin’ outfit Soul Chatter to discuss their influences, challenges in the digital era, and of course, their music.

Connect on FB or visit their website. Music is available on CD Baby or Spotify.

Introduce yourself to our readers and describe the style of music you create.

We are Soul Chatter, an indie rock band originating from Cleveland, Ohio. Rock and roll, blue-eyed soul, roots, retro, all of these descriptions have been given to our music, it truly is ultimately up to the listener to decide. We strive to bring energy, a strong sense of melody, and thoughtful, though-provoking lyrics to every song that we make.

Who or what influences your playing and/or writing styles? Also, what motivates you to keep creating?

I think that key influences for my writing came from all over the place. I was raised on early Elton John, CCR, Motown and the Stones. I fell in love with Dire Straits, REM, later Freddy Johnston and Jason Isbell. I truly believe that all of these folks and many others have influenced and inspired our compositions. Great music is being made every day, every year, you just need to dig deep to find it. There is nothing like the creative process. It can be frustrating, lonely, obsessive. It can also be the thing that makes you jump out of bed in the morning, that fills your head during your waking hours. Listening to a new song, a new recording take shape, is the most amazing feeling. You have created something that has a life of its own. Amazing.

What was the last song you listened to?

The last song I listened to was Traveling Alone by Jason Isbell. I truly believe there is no better songwriter, story teller in popular music today. I try like hell to achieve that kind of lyrical honesty, purity.

Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?

I love the fact that musicians, bands have taken back control of their compositions. It has turned the music industry on its ear. That being said, folks have to dig deep to get past the small selection of new songs that get commercial radio time, as most stations are run by the same giant media companies. We are in a small market, and we are starting back up after a long hiatus. I implore folks to find indie music stations, bloggers, promoters, and take the time from our busy lives to really listen. Your lives will be better and richer for the effort. I will stop preaching now.

Do you gig, tour or perform through any live streaming services? Where can music lovers see you perform?

We are dusting ourselves off after years of doing the ‘adult things’ that we are supposed to do, day jobs and mortages and kids and such. The first step was getting some great new songs created. I believe we have achieved that step. We are very excited about these new compositions. The next step is getting a couple of sets together and getting out there again in a live setting. Hopefully this will follow shortly.

Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?

Please check us out at soulchattermusic.com, or YouTube, iTunes, Spotify, you name it. We are all over the net.

Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?

As you get older, busier, it is so easy to rely on the music of your youth, of your prime. Or just to slip away from music altogether. Keep the old reliable stuff close, but take some time to explore, to be curious, to find new music. Support the artists that you like, and please spread the word about what you like. That’s what ultimately keeps folks like us doing what we do. Thanks!