We had the good fortune of connecting with Evan Rashby and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Evan, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Although this is cliche, I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life. Yes, there are many careers that provide security and stability which are of course enticing, but I would rather have a life full of exciting and random ventures and opportunities that feed my passions. If I ever settle for a normal 9-5 job, I’d imagine becoming quickly tired of that lifestyle and constantly feeling unfulfilled. I love the excitement and risk of film composition. Each new project feels like a fresh start, giving me the opportunity to learn and progress both in a professional setting, but also personally. I try to have no expectations when beginning new projects in order to keep a level of childlike excitement for the unknown. It’s an incredibly risky business that I’ve found extremely worthwhile. Risk taking is worth every downfall because when something good is born from a risk, the feeling of accomplishment and pride is worth the struggle. As a film composer it is my job to enhance moving pictures with my own emotions and persona. I want to give every project I write the same level of thoughtfulness and emotion so that the audience has something truly meaningful to hold onto. It is unbelievably fulfilling to participate in an art that can give so much to the world.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am grateful that in all of the projects I’ve scored, I’ve been allowed to write music that is true to who I am as an artist. It becomes easy to replicate another creator and copy their musical identity, but it is always much more challenging to find your own voice and figure out what you want to say to the world. Like all artists, I will always be chasing artistic honesty and self expression which is healthy, but I think as my life moves forward I continually discover the beauty in ever-changing voice and the importance of trying new things. This willingness to adapt and strive for the highest quality of expression is brought into every project I take part in. To be comfortable with where I am today has taken patience and mindfulness. I’ve spent way too much energy and time comparing myself to others and in turn losing drive and motivation. As soon as I began to accept myself and every flaw that I come with, I started to find my voice quicker. I strive to find internal fearlessness when writing, attempting things that may be out of the box because that’s how innovation can manifest in myself. I do not take any opportunity for granted and instead see every project as a class, and I the student, have something to learn. There is no one way to score a picture, instead I’ve learned that I must allow the picture to tell me what it needs.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
LA is such a big city and can be really overwhelming, but if you look closely you can find amazing gems. Throughout a week long visit to LA, I think there are some essentials that should be covered first.
The Griffith Observatory is surrounded by beautiful nature and hiking. I would spend at least half a day exploring each trail and lookout. After seeing the views from above, I would make my down to Los Feliz and explore the Los Feliz Flea market which happens every Saturday. You can find all sorts of cool clothing, art, memorabilia and antiques here. Often you will see food trucks parked outside the flea market containing an array of amazing edible choices. From Los Feliz I would then head downtown to see whats playing at the Disney Concert Hall. During this week, I would also make sure to visit the Hollywood Bowl, Grand Central Market, Huntington Gardens, Venice Canals, Farmer’s Market at the Grove, a handful of speak-easy’s, and swim at as many beaches as possible all along the coast in Malibu.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It feels impossible to recognize a small faction of my support system so instead I would like to briefly thank all those who contribute to my life. To have reached the place I am today in my career, I could not have gotten here without the consistent love and support from my family, friends and mentors. To my parents and grandparents, I love you and am forever grateful of the life you’ve provided for me and for giving me the strength to try my passions professionally. To my friends and mentors, I am constantly inspired by your creativity and innovation, thank you for remaining constant supports and lights in my life. I would also like to recognize each artist, filmmaker and musician I’ve had the pleasure of working with. I am beyond grateful for each opportunity you’ve each given me and chance to experiment with new ideas in every project I take on.
Website: https://www.evanrashbymusic.com/