Interview: Johnathan O’Gilvie Discusses His Self-Produced EP "Devotion"
How did you get started with music and what instruments do you play now? Also, what software/hardware do you use for production?
One day in 2008 my mom asked me what instrument I’d like to play. I didn’t even have an answer for her but she picked guitar and that was the first instrument I ever got good at. Two years after that I shifted over to piano and now I’m all things keys.
I first started producing on GarageBand using an iPod, so I went straight to Logic when I got a MacBook. I’m still here but I do use Ableton occasionally if I’m working with others who prefer it. I’m starting to collect different synths and stuff now so a lot of the sounds from the EP aren’t from any VSTs.
My current roster is a Roland FA-08, Nord Wave, Microkorg, and Sledge.
Congratulations on the completion and release of your incredible debut EP "Devotion". It focuses a lot on relationships (the good and bad); were any of the songs based on personal experience?
Thank you kindly. They all are more or less. “Cater 2 U” probably comes closest to being 100% personal. The others are mostly inspired by different experiences of mine but in a more general sense.
I like to write songs about girls overall though, whether I feel it personally or not.
What are you most proud of with your debut EP "Devotion"?
Probably that I did it without focusing too much on how it would be received. Everybody wants to make some shit that everyone will like but sometimes that kind of pressure can block you from the real music. I felt very calm mentally putting it out, like “here you go, I just created this.”
You self-produced the EP in your bedroom; what was your creative process for the EP in that environment, and why did you decide to title it "Devotion"?
I actually just moved into a new spot so the environment is totally new and unlike anywhere I’ve been. I’ve also been able to upgrade my set up quite a bit since moving in. That being said the process was very enjoyable and fresh.
“Devotion” is a word that has really stuck with me over the years. So it’s like here’s what my devotion to the music over all these years sounds like.
Looking back at the development of the EP, what have you learned about yourself as an artist and producer that will carry over to your new music in development?
A lesson I keep learning throughout all of this is to continue to put my heart in it. Release what I want, say how I feel, and erase the need to please others.
With the "Devotion" EP now released, what's next for you musically? Can we expect any music videos from the EP's tracks?
I feel like I’m at a point where I absolutely have to take myself higher. So I’ll be doing some hard internal work before I decide when I’ll share some news sounds. It won’t be a super long time or anything like that though.
I’m also in the process of getting videos together for potentially every song, starting with “Bad Shape”.
Connect with Johnathan O’Gilvie: Instagram