We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Chris Poulson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Chris , thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
When I first started playing music, I wasn’t one who picked things up immediately, unlike some of my peers. I was someone who had to listen to something over and over and over in order for it to stick. I distinctly remember being in my high school marching band in the 9th grade and found myself given the “not-so-fun” duties or instruments to play. It was hurtful to me to know that I didn’t have the chops or skills that others in the drum-line did. But, that didn’t stop me from doing my best at whatever task I was given. It wasn’t easy on me mentally either, as I was bullied and told by certain peers that I basically sucked at playing drums. Now, I’m not one to take someone telling me that I wasn’t good enough, because I know me and I know what it takes for me to succeed at something. It may not be overnight but I knew I’d get there someday. I used those words and thoughts from my peers to drive and inspire me. I practiced the drums for hours and hours after school when I got home and even went as far as learning how to read sheet music. It wasn’t until my third year or marching band drum-line that I found myself as the second ranked bass drum player in the drum-line. To break it down. There were 5 bass drum players in the line-up and each ranked from 1 to 5 based on the complexity of the parts and the person’s skill. I stuck it out through my junior year of high school in the marching band and I would not continue on to my senior year. Instead, I created a band with some classmates that shared the same interest in music that I did. I was the drummer, lead & back-up vocalist and co-songwriter of the group throughout my senior year of high school.
After High School, I went to a community college where I wanted to study psychology and music theory. I remember sitting in my psych class one day and I got a voicemail message on my cell from my buddy telling me to call him ASAP. So, I stepped out of class for a minute to call him up. He explained there was this band that just signed a deal with Fearless Records and they lost their drummer in midst of their deal. So, they were in need of a drummer and one that could learn their songs and finish recording their debut EP set to release on Fearless Records the following year. My friend told me that he thought I would be a perfect fit for this, and I knew exactly who Fearless was, and that alone had me so excited that I could barely contain myself. My friend gave me the number of the bass player for the band, and told me to call him ASAP. So, I ended up going back inside the classroom, gathered up my belongings and took off back home so that I could get in touch with this band my friend was telling me about.
Once I got home I called their bassist and he gave me three songs to learn over the span of I think a week or so. We set-up an audition date, and I was pumped for this. I listened to those three songs day In and day out drilling them into my head. Even sleeping with those songs playing over and over in my headphones. It came down to audition day. I don’t remember being nervous, but I do remember saying to myself, “I want this, I NEED this!” I played those three songs with them like I had been playing with them for years. I even shocked myself. But, I had to prove to myself that I could do it. At the end of the audition, I remember the guitarist/lead singer and bassist stepped out to talk. They came back in minutes later and offered me the gig. From that point on, that’s when I knew it was time for the big-leagues, and music would become my profession from that moment on.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m an American musician originally from Burbank, California. I began my professional music career as the drummer and backup vocalist for the pop/rock/alt band Rock Kills Kid, which signed with Fearless Records in the early 2000’s. Through extensive touring across the United States with Rock Kills Kid, I gained invaluable experience in the music industry, touring, sharing the stage and opening for many known and popular bands at the time.
After my time with Rock Kills Kid, I decided to shift my focus to singing, songwriting and guitar. In 2021, I made my solo debut with the release of his 3-song EP titled “Fall into Pieces.” This release showcased my versatility and skills as a singer-songwriter. The EP was made available on all major music streaming platforms, allowing his music to reach a wide audience worldwide.
Building on the success of my debut EP, I released my highly anticipated new single, “Can’t Let Go,” in July 2022. This release marked a new chapter in my musical career, revealing a different side of my artistry that hadn’t been heard before. The accompanying music video further enhanced the impact of the song and showcased my craft as a visual artist.
In March 2023, I returned to the studio with my trusted producer and engineer, who also worked on “Can’t Let Go,” to create my latest musical offering, “Gone Without a Trace.” This new release hit all streaming platforms on April 21st, 2023. It demonstrated my evolving musical style and featured catchy pop-like hooks that left listeners eager for more. “Gone Without a Trace” provides a tantalizing glimpse into the direction I am taking with my music.
Looking ahead to 2024, I have exciting plans for my music career. I am currently recording a 6-song EP this Summer along with live shows in and around the Los Angeles area. Keep an eye out for the new EP and when I hit the stage this Summer! You can find my music and music videos on all your favorite online music platforms; including, Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube and much more!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
To me it’s quite simple, have a positive attitude, be humble and enjoy what you do. I’ve seen a lot of bands or acts that I’ve either loved or looked up to and some put a sour taste in my mouth about how they acted towards fans or people they encounter when they get off stage. Being appreciative of the people who choose to listen to you or even if you’re not a musician. Appreciate those who give you their time, energy and even money. There is a lot of competition out there, so stand out as one of the good ones and not who thinks the world or people owe them their time.
I, at times wished I was told that this world isn’t exactly all sunshine and rainbows. It can be pretty tricky and have some surprises that can come out of nowhere, However, you just have to be aware, expect the unexpected and do your job and do it well to the best of your ability. And, no-one can deprive you of that.
Also, sometimes the freedom to do what you want and play what you want isn’t always an option. But, as long as you’re able to express yourself and be the real you, then happiness is bound to carry through your journey.
Alright, so before we go we want to ask you to take a moment to reflect and share what you think you would do if you somehow knew you only had a decade of life left?
Life no matter one’s age can always have challenges. I realize the older I got the more responsibility came with it. Sometimes to pursue your passion you may have to sacrifice things that you love and even isolate yourself to stay focused and on track. And that is something that I have found myself doing more often these days. It’s easier for me to stay on track without certain distractions and things that will only hinder what I am trying to accomplish.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chrispoulson.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris__poulson
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CPoulsonMusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisPoulsonOfficial
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/chrispoulsonmusic
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@chrispoulson
Image Credits
Amanda Rae Villegas
