JW Francis on Unconventional Touring, Spotify Playlists and How He’s More than His Pants
Love Music More · hosted by Luke F. Walton (Scoobert Doobert)
Guest: JW Francis
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Topics discussed
Host note
JW Francis is a working indie songwriter who tours DIY shows to build a fanbase in person, and who keeps a standing bit going: write a stranger a personalized Valentine's Day song if they'll give him a name and a reason. That habit sits next to his new single "Orbit" as two versions of the same instinct, turning a small, specific ask into a finished song.
We talk about how those DIY shows built real, intimate connections with fans, how he kept a creative routine going through the pandemic, and the pull between chasing commercial success and staying the artist people actually connect with. What keeps him at it, in his own words: "I love putting smiles on people's faces. That fulfills me the most."
Selected moments
- JW on discovering his fanbase through DIY shows 32:36 JW discusses the importance of grassroots connections and the intimate experiences that come from playing DIY venues.
- The journey of recording "Orbit" 54:07 JW shares the story behind his single "Orbit" and how personal experiences shaped the song's creation.
- Valentine's Day song project explained 49:52 JW explains the concept of his Valentine's Day song project and the unique challenges it brings.
- Decision-making in songwriting 19:18 A deep dive into the artistic decision-making process that defines JW's songwriting.
- Creative routines during the pandemic 10:56 JW reflects on how he adapted his creative process while adapting to changes brought about by the pandemic.
- Tour experiences and challenges 44:32 He shares anecdotes and inspirations from touring, emphasizing the importance of live performances.
- The beauty of connection through music 60:03 A reflective moment where JW discusses how music serves as a bridge for emotional expression.
- Balancing artist identity and market demands 24:34 JW elaborates on navigating the pressures of commercial success while maintaining his artistic identity.
Selected excerpts
I want to start here and end up there. Let's play places in between.
I just feel like I'm not complete without music because I can't explain to you how I feel...
I get reminded constantly, it shows and through messages that people are listening and they love it.
It's okay to collect fragments, and even if they're not all great, they're part of the process.
This should be, I should be able to do this. It was really hard a lot.
I will write a song if you just tell me the name of the person and the reason that you love them.
I love putting smiles on people’s faces. That fulfills me the most.
FAQ
What is JW Francis known for?
JW Francis is an indie musician known for his heartfelt lyrics and unique sound, often exploring themes of love and personal experiences in his music.
How did JW Francis start his music career?
He began his music career by releasing his first EP in 2018. His exposure increased through digital platforms and live performances.
What is the Valentine's Day song project by JW Francis?
The Valentine's Day song project is an initiative where JW writes personalized love songs for fans based on their submissions.
These pages are host notes, not a full transcript. The episode itself is on the listen links above.