Julian Daniel
Julian Daniel says that he “[wants] to make the music…that other people aren't making.” And after just two years in the industry, it is clear that he is succeeding in doing so. The artist is a favorite at the magazine; his clear knack for production and songwriting is evident in his various releases. 2020 was important for Julian; he released the E-BOY EP earlier this year, which was followed by a set of four singles. The project included the popular “Lemontree”, a chill indie-pop song that has all of the ingredients of an absolute classic. If this wasn’t enough, the artist also appears on Tilsen’s set-titled album. Their song, “Boy Next Door”, is fantastic— the catchy track has earned over 16k plays since its debut. In our interview with the artist, he teases a lot of new songs and visuals to accompany them. Scroll down to read the full interview!
How did you get started making music?
I have always loved music and grew up around it all the time. When I was around 5 or 6, I got a microphone and piano for Christmas and from that point on I never put it down. I knew music was something that made me happy and created a safe space for me to be authentic. When I was fifteen, I was booking sessions at studios in Toronto and releasing music independently. Over time, it evolved and I found an amazing team who now helps me with all my creative ideas.
You describe your music is mostly "upbeat-pop, with rock and electronic dance elements". What influenced you to take this direction with your music?
I always loved pop music and felt that it was really easy to dance and vibe with. There are no limits to the pop genre. I knew when I started creating my own sound, I wanted to add some rock elements in it. I want to make the music I want to listen to that other people aren't making. My dad is a huge rock/punk music fan so I always grew up listening to that style of music.
Do you feel that your songwriting style has evolved over the past couple of years? If yes, how so?
When I was working on my first projects, I was writing all of the lyrics myself. It was a good way for me to learn more about songwriting at a young age. However, I struggle with Dyslexia, which makes it hard for me to write concise sentences and sometimes express myself. The past two years I have been working on that and seeing it less as a fault and more of a growth opportunity. I started writing something every day. Whether it be a sentence or a full song. I like to write about real life situations that I'm going through. I love having a co-writer in the room, to help me navigate my mind, and put it on paper. I like having another creative mind when creating a story. If two people in a room can connect on something, then others will too.
When is the perfect time to listen to a Julian Daniel song?
I would have to say on a long drive with friends at night. The windows down and smoking a cigarette. As light from the street caresses the shadows in your face.
Who are you teaming up with for a dream collaboration?
Ouuu my dream collaboration would have to be Troye Sivan. His voice is so rich and the lyrics are so smooth and powerful. I feel like we could create something really beautiful together. Troye hit me up @juliandanieloffical haha!
What was the inspiration for your song, "Lemontree"?
Lemontree was a high thought actually. One night I was really high, staying in a hotel and I walked into my managers room and said "I want to write a song about lemons, smoking and being dead inside". She looked at me like I was insane. And said "Ok, then do it,". The next day at the studio I did exactly that, less the dead inside part. It has to be one of my favorite songs.
What can we can you doing on your day off?
On my days off I really like to watch live performances, draw/paint, chill with friends, and annoy my chihuahua Zoey.
What motivates you to keep on making music?
Music is something that makes me so happy. It's the only thing I want to do. I have goals that I have set out for myself since I was very young and I can't wait to reach those goals and see where my musical journey takes me. I'm in it for the long ride!
What's next for Julian Daniel?
I have tons of new music coming out and visuals! When the world returns to a new normal I would love to get back out playing shows again and connecting with my fans IRL.
