Meet Evan Roth | Singer-Songwriter & Composer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Evan Roth and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Evan, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think in life, we are often subconsciously reminded to play it safe or follow the practical, more predictable route, and personally, I have never really been drawn toward that. With that said, I’ve learned over the years that when taking a risk, it’s good to take calculated risks as it can keep you safe and prevent any unnecessary damage to yourself or others. I think when you put yourself out there, the universe can generally be kind to you and reward you. I can remember one of the times I took a risk recently during a video shoot for my new single Dreamer. As an artist, you often walk a fine line between staying in your comfort zone and branching out to try something new. This video had a very retro aesthetic and had a lot of colorful imagery that I wasn’t normally gravitating toward, but looking back, I think we made something very unique and special as a result of taking that risk, and trusting the director’s vision. Throughout my career so far, I’ve always taken my successes along the way and re-invested in my artist project. Some might say it’s taking a risk because there’s absolutely no guarantee of getting a return on the music I make, but I still believe in the music so much that I believe in that return.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I started playing the piano at age 7 and took private classical lessons and I would say that’s where my musical journey began. I think studying classical music provided me with a strong foundation that I think gives me an advantage over others. I’m a firm believer in learning as much as you can, I’m by no means an expert, and intend to absorb as much information about music as possible. After I graduated from conservatory, I began my career writing music for films and commercials and got my break doing the music for a Gold Peak Tea commercial with Ron Howard. I know a lot of artists say, there was one moment where they had their big break, but for me, it’s been a series of little breaks that have culminated in who I am today. I’ve continued writing the music for many award-winning films that have debuted at film festivals all over the world and am still writing music for commercials through my music production company Momentum. I always say one of my proudest moments in my careers so far is playing for a U.S. President. Despite your political beliefs, it’s always going to be a top 5 moment for me having been able to provide music for the leader of the free world. The journey thus far has been far from easy. There’s challenges on a weekly basis that continues to test my will power for being successful in music, but I always manage to persevere and never give up. I think its a testament to what I was taught as a kid, I’m lucky that I came from a supportive family that always encouraged me to keep going, no matter what the odds were. Along the way, I’ve learned that having humility and a desire to learn will always give you an advantage, because at the end of the day, we are all humans, not robots, and sometimes we get caught up in the motions rather than enjoy the journey with ease. I want to spread positivity and humanity in my work and continue to evoke an emotional connection for anyone who listens to my music. At the end of the day, my goal is to inspire and bring good to the world. If I can change just one life through music, then I feel I am doing what I was meant to do.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For anyone who lives in LA, the hiking culture is strong. I would definitely take them on a hike in Malibu or if they want a pop culture experience, then Runyon Canyon to catch up on the latest gossip around town. For food, there’s a plethora of options, but for me, you can’t ever go wrong with sushi. I would take my friend Hamasaku in Santa Monica for an incredibly fresh meal. We would probably catch a Dodger or Laker game and go to a show at the Improv Lab, LA has such an abundance of great entertainment. If we had enough time, a road trip to Joshua Tree is always in the cards and one of my favorite places on the planet.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m fortunate enough that I’ve had a lot of people mentor me over the years and continue to encourage me in my career. It might seem a little unorthodox, but I’v actually benefited most by studying the greats of my craft and as a result, they’ve provided me much of my motivation to continue to strive to be the best I can be as a musician. I dedicate this shoutout to (in no particular order) Mozart, Frank Sinatra, Dave Brubeck, Billy Joel, Jeff Lynne, Chris Martin and Brandon Flowers. On a personal level, I really attribute a lot of my success to my family, my parents and my sister who have always supported me unconditionally over the years and really appreciate their love.

Website: www.evansroth.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/evansroth

Twitter: www.twitter.com/evansroth

Facebook: www.facebook.com/EvanSpencerRoth

Youtube: www.youtube.com/EvanSpencerRoth

Image Credits
Craig Hung