Does it sometimes feel like life is empty?
In a musical landscape saturated with trends and fleeting inspirations, LA-based artist Steven Montes remains steadfast in pursuing genuine expression.
Although his musical journey began in parody rap, his musical talent and vision are the real deal. Initially content to joke around with his friends, this would not be the case for long; Montes would have a pivotal moment when he crafted his first “good” song, almost unintentionally. That ignited a fire within him—an epiphany that whispered, “Maybe I can do this,” and the rest, as they say, is history.
One defining trait that has served Steven Montes well thus far is his commitment to his artistic vision. Although, by his admission, he’s found inspiration in the storytelling abilities of Merle Haggard and Danny Duncan, he’s experimented with genres from pop to rap and country to create his sound. He’s not easily swayed and doesn’t always require heavy inspiration; he simply makes what he wants to hear. He’s a go-getter, unafraid to pursue his artistic vision, even creating his outfit in the form of his label, Low-Quality Records.
“Pizza Joint,” one of Montes’s latest creations, is an easy-on-the-ear release that combines a little bit of country with a dash of pop. A pleasant guitar and spunky drums form the background of the release, combining with Montes’s slightly melancholic delivery to lend a feeling of nostalgia. “I get inside my head and push away the ones I love,” Montes sings, alluding to the mental and emotional struggles we often bear in silence. Although the soundscape Montes creates may seem simple on the surface, his conscious lyrics beget complex personal narratives, lending depth and life to the release.
“Pizza Joint” is a release that seems simple on the surface but is captivated by Monte’s ability to grapple with internal struggle transparently and honestly. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream Steven Montes’s new song “Pizza Joint”, out now on all majour streaming platforms.
Welcome to BUZZ, Steven Montes! We loved "Pizza Joint," we had to ask! What was your favorite part of the creative process for this release?
Thank you! My favorite part is always the writing process, especially when it comes as naturally as it did. Songs tend to write themselves when I'm alone on long drives, and that's exactly what the pizza joint was. Music means everything to me. It's been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. It's hard to say, but my favorite musical memory as an artist is getting to perform in front of my family. I'm blessed to have them around and supportive in my creative endeavors, so it's as simple as that.
What does music mean to you, and what's been your favorite musical memory so far?
Music means everything to me. It's been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. It's hard to say, but my favorite musical memory as an artist is getting to perform in front of my family. I'm blessed to have them around and supportive in my creative endeavors, so it's as simple as that.
What goals do you want to achieve through your music, and do you have any advice for budding musicians?
Depending on the day, my goal is either world domination or remaining in the shadows. Either way, I want the freedom that comes with making a living off my art, and I want to create opportunities for new talent. I hate when people make it to the top and forget where they came from; although I primarily work alone, I've always valued community, and I hope to be able to give back soon. My advice to any budding artists is to do it. Nobody's coming to save you; the quicker you realize that, the quicker you can get started. Nobody wanted to sign us, so I made my label. Nobody wanted to shoot my videos, so I picked up a camera. Just do it.
If your audience could take one thing away from your music, what would you want it to be?
I want them to hear my music and know that anything is possible. I didn't come from anything spectacular, no head start, just hard work and perseverance. I hope to inspire listeners to dream big and not only that but make it a reality.
What's next for Steven Montes? Can we expect to hear more new music soon, and is there anything you'd like to say to your fans?
I drop music consistently, all genres, too, so you won't ever get bored. I also hope to get some more short films out soon and other ideas. I don't want to speak on everything cause id be here all day, but my mind never stops, and I'm working on manifesting what's in my brain into reality very soon. You'll probably see me again sometime, so to old fans, I say hello, and to new ones, I say welcome.