Q&A: SPENCER BARNETT
After dropping back-to-back magnetic summer singles with “eta” and “Welcome to My Mind,” rising star Spencer Barnett released his latest track “48 Hours in Paris” to kick off the conclusion of his three-part EP trilogy series, which is due later this year. On his new single, Barnett shares his first experience in the City of Light and the feeling of being in an incredible place for the first time. Leading up to the final installment of his trilogy, the singer-songwriter finds himself shedding layers of vulnerability unlike before. Barnett endlessly pushes toward sonic innovation, transforming the landscape of traditional pop with his unique nuanced sound, and he is poised to take 2020 by storm. We had the opportunity to chat with the rising star about his latest single “48 Hours in Paris.”
Photo: Bellamy Brewster
Do you mind introducing yourself to us?
Hi, I’m Spencer. I’m a 19-year-old artist from the Bay Area, but I just moved to New York. I like making music and getting into trouble.
What was the creative process behind your recent single “48 Hours in Paris?”
I was in the studio with a few of my friends after having just finished my first trip to Paris. My friend George started playing that original guitar riff, and the words came together easily because I just retold what had happened.
Do you mind telling us more about your 48 Hours in Paris?
I was out in France with some friends working on my new EP, and we spent two days in Paris on the way to the studio. The song is an account of most of the events that happened. It was incredible to experience a new city for the first time, and I really wanted to capture that excitement in the song and in the production.
Photo: Bellamy Brewster
How do you think “48 Hours in Paris” differs from “Welcome To My Mind”?
I think they’re very different songs actually. "48 Hours in Paris" tells a story whereas "Welcome to My Mind" is more about self-reflection.
We’ve also heard you’re starting college in the fall. Is it challenging to balance being a full-time student, along with being a full-time musician?
School for me was sadly postponed to the Spring, which I was initially bummed about, but it’s given me a lot of time to work on my record, which has been really nice. I think it’s gonna be hard to find the right balance but I think it’ll definitely be possible.
Who are you currently listening to?
Right now, I’m listening to a lot of Phoenix, MGMT, the Beatles, and Little Dragon.