A Q&A with Gaspar Narby
Sunny, sad pop music from Switzerland – introducing Gaspar Narby…
What’s the title of your latest release, and what does it mean to you?
‘Death & Other Things’ is a song about growing old and my fear of never fitting in. It’s a really personal and honest song, about aspects of me I’m sort of scared of.
What was the hardest part about putting this release together, and why?
My inner critic is pretty wild and facing him is a tough thing.
What do enjoy most about producing your own material?
It was a funny process, usually I feel like a producer writing songs. This time around I wrote everything on guitar, like an old school songwriter, and only then wore my producer hat and turned it into what it’s become. It forced me to focus on the story-telling, the lyrics and melody, before making it into a fully produced song.
What do you want the listener to take away from listening to your music?
The other day, someone commented under one of my videos ‘Thank you for making me and so many other people feel seen’ and I thought, this is what I want.
How does a track normally come together? Can you tell us something about the process?
It depends on the track for sure! I write fragments of lyrics when I read, watch films or have conversations, so from life I suppose. But there’s a lot of work, trial and error, and sitting at my desk feeling like I’m a total failure because I can’t write a good song as well.
What band/artists have influenced you the most since you started this project, and why?
Sufjan Stevens’ songwriting was a huge influence, especially how the beauty of his arrangements help soothe how dark his lyrics can be.
What countries would you like to tour? Are there any standout venues you’d like to play in?
The UK, as I’ve been living here for six years now. The US would be a dream, even though it’s so big and touring there must be really tiring. Japan though? If only for the food!
If you could pick one track for our readers to listen to in order to get a taste of your music, what would you pick, and why?
If you already heard ‘Death & Other Things’, I’d recommend listening to ‘Sight’ (feat. D.A.N), as it shows another aspect of my music making that I love: a bit more electronic and pop.
What ambitions do you have for the band/your career?
Keeping on writing things that resonate with me. Being kind. Meeting people and taking care of the ones I have around me. And hopefully becoming filthy rich as well!
Finally, as you leave the stage, what are your parting words?
Thank you!
For more info visit: instagram.com/gasparnarby