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Hi Montana, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?
I’ve been really good, thanks for having me!
Can you talk to us more about your latest single “The Reason”?
“The Reason” is my favorite record right now! My vision was to create the world of a Mr. Bright Side” By: The Killers. The Killers always create timeless classics that are anthem records. My goal is to create records that withstand the test of time to pay homage to my idols.
Did any event in particular inspire you to write this song?
I was in the studio with my best friend Josh+ and we were reminiscing on the posthardcore scene band era. So overall this record grew from a place of nostalgia.
How was the filming process and experience behind the video?
This was actually my first music video and the first time I met Kellin. The vibes were epic! Being on a set in Los Angeles was also a surreal moment, I can’t believe my music has taken me to the big screen in such a short amount of time.
The single comes off your new album Parabellum – what’s the story behind the title?
Great Question! Well first s/o CAPCOM for making the greatest videogame of ALL time “Resident Evil”. In Resident Evil the 9mm bullets are called Parabellum Rounds and these bullets are essential to winning the game. The music industry is a survival game and Parabellum is my ammunition.
How was the recording and writing process?
I have a very simple writing/recording process all from my homebase studio in Indiana. I love the big studios in LA but there is no place like home when writing these types of records.
In songs like “The Reason” you get to collaborate with the likes of Kellin Quinn – how did these folks come on board?
I always knew “The Reason” was a powerful record because the sonics match the emotional storyline perfectly. After the session was over I knew the record needed Kellin’s vocals to truly personify the message. The following week we got the song mastered and my management/A&R team pitched the idea to Benji Madden, then Kellin heard the record and the rest was history! My team is lit.
Now, you are no strangers to collaborations as you are known for your writing for other musical acts – what have you learned from these experiences?
Starting my career as a songwriter is an experience I’m forever grateful for. I’ve learned that to be a successful songwriter it is my duty to only write songs I would release myself. This motto has taken me a long way and it is the vibe I bring into every session.
Do you tend to take a different approach when collaborating with someone else rather than working on your own?
I usually take the same approach when collaborating with other artist as I do with my own music. Im always going to write from a true place and I always understand the assignment. I live and breathe music so songwriting has become second nature at this point I give every song my all.
Where did you find the inspiration for the songs and lyrics?
“The Reason” tells the story of heartbreak vs endless love while searching for the reason my soul allows pain to equal love.
What else is happening next in 1996Montana’s world?
I am extremely focused on growing as a singer/songwriter and I want the world to catch the wave of my sound. I’m ready to start performing now that the world is opening! I have also written on some crazy projects this year, I can’t wait for them to come out. Overall happy to be here and excited for the future. MORE MUSIC SOON!
