Inside The Star Prairie Project: The Global Rock Collective Proving That Distance Can’t Kill Creativity

Founded by Wisconsin songwriter Nolen Chew Jr. and longtime collaborator Rüdiger, the collective has become a magnetic creative force that pulls in musicians from across continents, languages, and genres and somehow makes it all sound effortless.

What started as a one-off collaboration has evolved into a multi-album journey through rock, soul, and Americana, all stitched together by pure chemistry and shared intent. Their sound is cinematic yet grounded, nostalgic but forward-looking, and unmistakably human. Across records like Panacea, The Shining Ones, and New Day at Dawn, The Star Prairie Project proves that emotional resonance doesn’t need proximity. It just needs a connection.

We sat down with Nolen to discuss collaboration, creative freedom, and the impact of music transcending geographical boundaries.

The Star Prairie Project brings together musicians from all over the world. How do you find and choose collaborators who can fit the sound and spirit of what you and Rudiger are building?

Well… It's complicated. The Star Prairie Project, by happenstance, started at two different places at the same time. I had a song I was working on at the time called 'Sophie', that ended up on 'The Surreal' album, but I was looking for a lead vocalist for the recording. I hired Marcello Vieira, who I think was working out of London at the time. Around the same time, Rudiger responded to the same song. 

I told him Marcello was already on the job, but that I had another song called 'Hot damn' that I wanted him to have a listen to. So I ended up with the Project working two parallel paths simultaneously. The first was the gang from Portugal that started with Marcello Vieira and Ricado Dikk and added Sandrine Orsini on vocals and Mauro Ramos on drums. The other track was Rudiger, who had worked with Ivy Marie, and so we added her to the mix. Later, Tom Tikka and I collaborated on an album, which we haven't fully released yet. I can go into the different styles and genres this brings later, but as I mentioned, it's a bit complicated.

There's something timeless about your sound; it nods to classic rock but feels very current. Was that intentional, or is it just a natural result of the different influences each member brings to the table?

One thing we've never done is follow trends or fads. The sound is the unique blend of the talent that goes into making the song. It's the result of the unrestrained creative environment. I've always been amazed at the wide range of songs we put out. After a while, that collective sound becomes your identity as a creative entity. And that sound grows. The music I'm working on right now is different from 'Little Gems'; one album has a bold and dynamic rock vibe, while the other is an intense and reflective American vibe—all the result of so many influences and experiences.

The name "The Star Prairie Project" feels poetic and rooted in place, even though your music transcends geography. What does that name represent to you now that the project has grown beyond its origins?

I have to admit the name has grown on me. At first, I wasn't sure that name would be endearing or enduring, but over time, it has already answered the question. The village of Star Prairie is so quaint, and the Apple River flows through it in a naturally picturesque scene. I actually live on Cedar Lake, a couple of miles out of town, but I drive through the village nearly every day, and I'm glad I have borrowed the name. The Alan Parsons Project also influenced the name selection. I was listening to his 'Eye in the Sky" album the other day. It reminded me of the brilliance of their work, with its complete and orchestrated sound, yearning, and poetic lyrics. So good.

You've released albums like Panacea, The Shining Ones, and New Day at Dawn, which all feel thematically connected. Is there an overarching story or message tying your discography together?

Not really. I like to write about the human experience, our hopes and our fears, our successes and our failures. Star Project songs mostly speak about hope and love. The stories are often introspective and emotive. Sometimes, the time it takes to write and record an album subconsciously reflects what's happening in our lives at that particular moment. 

Many artists struggle to stay consistent when working remotely. What keeps you motivated and inspired to keep creating at such a high level without ever sharing the same physical space?

It's the thrill of making music. Each new riff or lyrical melody is a challenge to co-create and set in motion. The process is really seamless, and we're good at not overthinking it, going with the flow of the song. I've written hundreds of songs, and each one is a unique thrill, with the potential being limitless.

I think the biggest mistake is stepping on creation or the "my way" symptom. I love to see this phenomenal talent shine, and I let them go; that's what true collaboration is all about. What always surprises me is how quickly it can take when it's done right. It's a trip to see a song go from some scribbles in pencil in my notebook to a thoroughly mixed song in a few days.

Have you ever thought about what it would be like if the whole band finally met in person? To perform live or record something together for the first time?

Yes, I have thought about that very thing. It would be a logistical challenge, but it sure would be a cool experience. These are such crazy times, and it seems so hard to plan things out very far, but I do love that idea, and it's there in the back of my mind, so you know, if there's a will, there's a way somehow, so you never know.  It sure would be fun.

From songwriting to final production, your music sounds remarkably cohesive. How do you balance creative freedom for each collaborator with maintaining that signature "Star Prairie" sound?

That's a question I get a lot. It always sounds cohesive. I place a lot of emphasis on the production aspect of the sound. Whoever is the producer of the song always has a say in how the song is assembled, built, and polished. That really helps with the equilibrium and cohesion. It's always about what's good for the music and what's best for the song to bring out its full potential.