Interview: Jason Shand - Crumble

Crumble, a love song about codependency, has been a longtime fan favorite and is regarded as a signature song of the NYC-based singer, songwriter, and recording artist Jason Shand. Yet it’s also been a hidden secret from the general public, having never been released as a single to radio... until now. So why the long wait? "I don’t really have a good explanation for the long wait other than getting distracted by life and some of my other material. But I knew this day would eventually come, and I’m really excited. Out of all my songs, this is one of my all-time favorite compositions, and I can’t wait for those outside my sphere of influence to finally hear it!"

By Kamil Bobin

Discovered via Musosoup

Kamil) Hey Jason Shand, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?

When I heard U2’s song ‘Bad’, that was a turning point in my life where I decided ‘I want to do that. I want to be a singer.’

Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?

Love Peter Gabriel, Fiona Apple, Elbow, NLX, Neil Finn, U2… great songwriters, great story tellers, great melodies. Very inspiring.

Your latest track is 'Crumble'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?

‘Crumble’ was a gift from the universe in that it was composed in around 25 minutes. It’s drawn from an amalgamation of different relationships in my life - familial and romantic - where I had a need to break free but also had that need to not let go. Can’t live with them, can’t live without them.

Which skills have you gained that help you perform effectively as a musician?

I’d say the skill to be comfortable in my own skin, which I guess comes with life experiences and maturity.

What are your favourite musical genres, and are there any you dislike?

I’m all over the place with my tastes. I love a good song and I’ve heard that in many genres. Pop, singer/songwriter/ alternative is where I gravitate to. Rap and country music probably aren’t go to’s for me, but again, I’ve had songs from both genres on loop.

Are there people who help you with the production of the songs?

My band of musicians are amazing and always have input in regards to their individual parts, but from an overall production standpoint, it’s just me.

What are your long term goals?

A publishing deal and/or a recording deal.

What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?

It’s therapeutic for me. It’s all coming from me and my life experiences. And it really is a privilege to be part of this fraternity of individuals who put melody and words together in a cohesive way.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

The artists struggle more to make money which sucks.

What are your plans for the future?

Working on material for a new album. It seemingly never ends… thankfully!