Topeka Clementine – Music Inspired by Heartbreak
Topeka Clementine: A Journey of Creativity, Music, and Overcoming Fear
Episode Summary:
In this captivating episode of the Icon Presents Podcast, host Antwon Haynes interviews the talented musician Topeka Clementine. They discuss Topeka’s new single “Breakfast for One,” his creative process, and the personal experiences that inspire his music. The conversation also delves into overcoming fear of rejection, dealing with criticism, and the importance of storytelling in music.
“Breakfast for One” and Its Inspiration:
Topeka Clementine opens up about the story behind his new single “Breakfast for One.” Inspired by a middle school crush who ghosted him, the song reflects Topeka’s ability to turn life experiences into art. He recounts seeing this old crush at a Halloween party, leading to a nervous reaction and an overprepared breakfast. This experience taught Topeka that even the most challenging situations can lead to valuable lessons and creative inspiration.
Songwriting and Creative Process:
Topeka describes his music as a blend of bedroom pop and indie pop, with a focus on harmonic complexity and an homage to Golden Age pop artists. He cites Lavie, Liana Flores, and No Vacation as current inspirations, appreciating their classical and mid-century pop influences. Topeka’s creative process involves transforming personal stories into music, using Logic Pro and Ableton Live for production.
Overcoming Fear of Rejection:
Antwon and Topeka discuss the importance of overcoming the fear of rejection in creative pursuits. Antwon shares his experience of reaching out to talented artists like Danielle and Ileana Flores for collaborations. He emphasizes the role of social media in connecting with potential guests and collaborators. Both Antwon and Topeka highlight the necessity of taking risks and building resilience in the face of rejection.
Self-Worth and Storytelling:
Topeka reflects on how music has helped him navigate moral dilemmas and find solace in challenging times. He shares his journey of grappling with self-worth and using storytelling through music as a means of expression and healing. Antwon adds his perspective on the importance of personal growth and self-awareness in creating meaningful art.
Music Production and Personal Growth:
Topeka shares his journey of learning music production on a MacBook Air using Logic, doing the entire production and mixing himself. He started with GarageBand and eventually transitioned to Logic, honing his skills along the way. Antwon discusses his experience with Logic and Pro Tools, highlighting the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the creative industry.
Dealing with Criticism and Staying True to One’s Vision:
Antwon and Topeka address the challenges of dealing with criticism and maintaining one’s vision. Topeka shares strategies for respecting individual preferences and recognizing that taste is subjective. Antwon praises the success of Eric July’s comic book company, Reverse, despite initial criticism. They both emphasize the importance of staying pure and true to one’s creative vision.
Reflecting on Growth and Embracing New Sounds:
Topeka reflects on his growth and maturity in music, embracing complexity and exploring new sounds. Antwon reminisces about how his concerns as a teenager seem insignificant now that he’s 30 with a family. They both look back on their middle school and high school worries with endearment, appreciating how far they’ve come.
Future Projects and Celebrating Creativity:
Topeka Clementine shares his upcoming projects and plans for the future, highlighting the importance of celebrating his work and taking pride in his creative endeavors. Antwon encourages listeners to take risks and pursue their passions, emphasizing the importance of courage and opportunity in life.
Conclusion:
This episode of the Icon Presents Podcast offers a heartfelt look into Topeka Clementine’s creative journey, from the inspiration behind his music to overcoming personal challenges. Topeka’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, self-expression, and staying true to one’s vision. Stay tuned to Icon Presents for more engaging conversations and follow Topeka Clementine for updates on his latest projects.
Support Topeka Clementine by following him on social media and staying tuned for his upcoming music and creative endeavors.
