Daniel Ellsworth and The Great Lakes

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Recently I was able to connect with the band called Daniel Ellsworth & The Great Lakes to discuss what went into their cool new single called “After All (Strung Out Version)”. In this interview, I asked the band about their writing process, where they find inspiration that they put back into their music, and what to expect at one of their concerts. If you’re enjoying the interview, please consider staying connected with the band here.

Thanks for your time today! Let’s first talk about what went into the writing process for your great new single called “After All(Strung Out Version”. What do you remember most about this writing process?

Thanks for having me! We wrote “AFTER ALL” in my studio in Los Angeles in 2022. The band had been on a bit of a hiatus with the pandemic and all, and this was one of the first things we wrote when we all got back in a room together. It’s a song about messing up, failing (a bunch), starting over (a bunch), and attempting to remain optimistic and kind despite (broadly gestures at everything). This new piano and strings version that we just released is meant to be a more intimate and reflective version of the song.

What are some other artists that you admire or find inspiration from?

The list is endless, but two of the most inspirational artists to me are Paul Simon and David Byrne. Not only are they two of the best songwriters to ever do it, I also admire how much they continue to release new and interesting art later in life. They could easily just stop creating and play only their hits, but they choose to keep finding ways to reinvent themselves and put new art out into the world. But also Petty and Prince forever.

Additionally, where do you find inspiration to write your own music?

I try to find inspiration everywhere, but lately I’m overwhelmingly inspired by the people in my life creating art. Whether it’s friends scoring films, my wife’s beautiful design work, the writers and producers I work with in studio sessions…They all inspire me to push myself and keep writing and creating music, even when I feel like throwing in the towel.

How would you describe a typical Daniel Ellsworth & The Great Lakes concert?

Don’t let the stripped down vibes of “AFTER ALL (Strung Out Version)” fool you. DE&TGL live are high energy and good vibes only from beginning to end. We want the audience to be having as much fun as we’re having.

What would you say to music fans who are looking for something new to listen to and are considering your band?

Do you like synths, guitars, big drums, dancing, and also sometimes not dancing? Do you like indie rock with big pop melodies and thoughtful arrangements? Do you like outer space, strong coffee, dogs, and people who are nice? Consider a listen to Daniel Ellsworth & The Great Lakes.

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