Twelve Brilliant is a bedroom pop artist from the Bay Area. With a very DIY approach to making records, the 20 year-old manages to crank out high-quality, original music that draws inspiration from real experiences. ‘Sugar High’ is Twelve Brilliant’s first release under the new moniker, after what he describes as a “dull, dark, and bizarre” 2017. The track features hard-hitting drums, lushious synths, and a killer hook, & is available on all streaming services. Mastered by Pink Blanco.

1.) What elements and/or characteristics made you say to yourself that you wanted to do music for a living? Who are your influences/heroes/role models?

I used to be super into mountain biking, but it wasn’t as fulfilling creatively. I remember sitting around listening to music on Pandora while trying to think of some artistic shit to do and then it dawned on me. I started looking into how music is made and here we are. At first, I was really into Gucci Mane and the whole Atlanta thing, and it sorta spread to Chicago and South Florida. Once I got into Raider Klan, it was a wrap. I found a ton of independent, DIY artists on Soundcloud such as Corbin, Bobby Raps, Shlohmo, etc. I realized I could write and produce stuff like my favorite musicians in the comfort of my own room, and I haven’t closed my DAW yet.

2.) If you could compare yourself to an already established artist, who would that be and why? If you don’t like to compare yourself, then music-wise, what separates you from other musicians?

I’d compare myself to Marc E. Bassy. He’s another talented singer-songwriter from the Bay, and I love the fact that he makes music with organic intentions, just like me.

3.) Everyone in life goes through adversity of some sort. Is there anything in your life that has any influence on the kind of songs you write? What is the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure on your path to becoming a musician?

A lot of my music is just me venting. I have a lot of stuff floating around my mind, and not a ton of people willing to listen. I never had a ton of friends growing up, and hardly any that I can actually call close, so I always isolated myself. I have to have long periods of time where I do nothing but stay home by myself and make music, otherwise I’d go insane.

4.) How do you prepare yourself to write certain songs? What is your song-writing and recording process?

My process is really simple. I open up my DAW, find/make some sounds that are appealing to me, and I dive in. Overthinking can kill a song.

5.) Unfortunately the music industry is full of talented individuals who just don’t get any recognition for their talent and/or work. What do you plan to do to make sure you stand out and get noticed?

I just want to contribute quality. A lot of artists set a ceiling for themselves early on, and aren’t super ambitious with songwriting or visuals. I’m going to put my watermark on as much new music as possible from multiple artists, and eventually it will be too big to ignore. But quality always comes first.

6.) Would you rather be on a major label or would you rather stay independent? Why or why not? In regards to the music industry itself, do you think that the traditional music industry model as we know it is dead?

I’d much rather stay independent because of how easy it’s getting. Anyone can pick up a camera and market themselves as a photographer, just as anyone can download FL and call themselves an artist. Team building for indie artists is all about weeding out the ones who aren’t passionate, and from there it’s all just a grind. As for the latter part of the question, I don’t think it’s dead, you just have to know your market. Certain types of people discover music in different ways, so you just have to try stuff out and see what sticks.

7.) How do you think the internet and social media affected the music industry and how musicians are able to market themselves? Social media is obviously an extremely important element in today’s world, especially when it comes to business, branding, marketing, etc. With that being said, do you think an artist will be able to survive in today’s music industry if they’re not social media savvy?

It’s nothing more than a new outlet for people to engage with. The better you learn how to use it, the better results you have. I think what will always be the most important is quality content and great connections. As well as a little sunshine.

8.) Artists who try to make music for the general public and make more money are usually seen as “sell-outs.” Do you see it that way and if so, what do you plan to do to make sure your music stays true to your brand and make a good living at the same time without having to “sell out”?

I definitely think sell-outs exist, but the lines are kind of blurry. All I can say is that for me, I like to make stuff that goes with experiences. I want you to be able to vibe with my drums at a party, and cry to my chords after your heart just got smashed by the love of your life.

9.) Professionally, where do you see yourself 5 years from now?

In five years, I see myself neck deep in music. Whether it’s on the production/writing side, the branding and visual side, or taking the stage front and center. As long as I’m involved and I make enough money to keep living and building a legacy.

Website: http://twelvebrilliant.xyz/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/twelvebrilliant
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