Most of us haven’t been to a live show in a solid 7 months. Festivals? I’m not sure any saw the light of day in 2020. As we continue to navigate the world amongst the Covid-19 pandemic, the All I Got Was Band Merch series documents how this time is affecting both artists AND fans alike.
Right off the bat, Nashville’s Sweettalker single release show was cancelled in March due to Covid. While we were all looking forward to the show, the band turned lemons into lemonade and really used this time wisely from online festivals, social takeovers, music videos, offering merch bundles, all the way to releasing their full EP, Paradise. In a way, not much has changed but Ryan and David can tell you more about that…
How have you been making this time useful? (As a band and individually)
Ryan: It's been a pretty productive time for us, I think. We've been able to focus on creating videos and merchandise for our releases, while trying to learn as much as we can about marketing and getting our music out there in times such as these. I'm grateful for how we've all been able to adapt and work together through it all so far.
Has songwriting been easier or harder, without seeing your other band mates?
David: It's been a challenge, but we've managed to stay productive. As an independent band, there's SO much work to be done after the music is written and recorded. Whether it's designing and ordering new merch, rehearsing, shooting videos, interviewing about the release, or brainstorming on what's up next, we're always working on something. New song ideas have begun to float around pretty well here lately as well. We've definitely got some new music planned for 2021.
What do you miss most from the “normal” world, before COVID-19?
Ryan: SHOWS and traveling! We had all the glorious plans of touring and playing our new music this year as we put it out, but NOPE.
During your free time, are there any bands/artists you have newly discovered or any old albums that you love, that you’ve been playing a bit more recently?”
David: I've really enjoyed listening to podcasts and audiobooks during this time actually. I'm learning a ton and I find it helps with staying inspired and motivated. I've also been jamming Harry Styles, Dua Lipa, Parcels, and Behold the Brave’s new stuff lately.
Have you picked up any new hobbies during this time?”
Ryan: Yes, reading! I can get wound up pretty tight sometimes. The anxiety of either having too much work to do or with this new Covid world, seemingly nothing to look forward to can really get to me. I find reading helps me put my brain to work on something and helps it relax and become more creative and productive in other uses.
How has your daily routine changed since COVID-19?
Ryan: We had spent a lot of time at the end of '18 and most of '19 either recording or working to pay for it, and had taken a break from playing shows to focus on our project; so in some ways, our routines haven't changed as much as many other musicians. However, now that the music is recorded and out in the world, it's killing us not to be able to play it live in the traditional sense. In the meantime, streaming shows and staying in touch with our friends and fans online will have to do.
On the positive side, all of our doggos are thoroughly appreciating all the added attention and quality time. :P
SHOP MERCH
