theaussieword.com catches up with Reuben Koops for a special interview.Give us an introduction. How did it all begin? What had you first interested in music?
I always loved music from a young age. When I was about 13 my parents got me a guitar and I basically taught myself from there, learning a few chords from friends and songwriting pretty soon after that. I’ve always loved the creative side of music.
What motivates or influences you in your quest to make great music?
I think it’s just something I have to do to be honest. I get really frustrated if I’m without a guitar for a few days or if I am really busy during the week so I don’t have the time to try out new ideas or write. I’m always thinking of new approaches to ideas, and getting them down is kind of therapeutic I guess.
What are your biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?
I’d really love to make my music my number one job. Currently it makes up about half of my work week/income. I’d love for it to be everything I do.
What can we expect from you in the coming months? Any plans to tour?
Right now I am in LA working on a new release which has been great. Hoping to play a lot more shows this year for sure.
Tell us a bit about your latest album and how would you best describe your music?
My latest release is the ’Slate EP’, released last month. I had the opportunity to work with some great Australian session musicians on this one and it’s certainly a product I’m proud of. I guess my music is kind of folk pop but some songs have a bit more drive to them than others.
Success, what is the secret to it?
I think working hard and sticking to your instincts goes a long way.
What has been your biggest career highlight?Being here in LA working with producer David Ryan Harris and some top class session guys over here has been incredible. That’s definitely up there.
Which stars of the music industry do you find inspiring?
Ryan Adams is a guy I have recently discovered and I love the way he goes about his career and the range of songs he produces.
Any new projects in the pipeline?
I’m in LA working on the new project as I write this!
The music industry is huge, where do you see yourself a few years from now?
Hopefully playing on bigger stages and my music reaching as many people as possible.
Name a few of your favourite Aussie artists.
Boy & Bear, Husky, Josh Pyke, Crowded House, Paul Kelly.
The shape of the music industry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of social media, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what does it mean to you in getting your records out into the public eye?
It’s definitely changing; some ways good, some ways not so much but I think it means artists have to be smarter and more creative with making and sharing music.
Thanks for the interview! What final message do you have for us today?
Thanks very much for having me!
Website: www.reubenkoops.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/reubenkoopsmusic
Twitter: www.twitter.com/reubenkoops