Since 2013, Hunter deBlanc has been crafting his own brand of alternative pop; utilizing synth-pop hooks a la CHVRCHES and The 1975, blended with the piano driven sensibility of Elton John or Billy Joel. What started out as a piano-heavy pop/rock project has evolved into a more refined brand of alternative pop, with a synth that dances,mesmerizing, intertwining with deBlanc's intricate and uplifting vocal delivery.
Please list your name.
Hunter deBlanc
For starters, what bands were you a part of prior to your solo project as Hunter deBlanc?
I was in a few cover bands before I released my first few songs back in 2013. Played a lot college pubs, getting paid in jaeger-bombs (it was 2008) and bad decisions.
What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?
I tend to write based on whatever emotions I'm currently experiencing, or whatever environment my current surroundings place me in. I've written a few songs regarding past experiences, but I feel that dwelling on the past can be detrimental to the process of letting go and moving forward. But who knows-- maybe one day I'll overcome my demons and be able to finish the songs about these sensitive subjects in a more elaborate manner.
What artists are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
Andrew McMahon has always been one of my biggest musical influences. He is just an absolute beast when it comes to songwriting. But as of recently, I've spent the past two years performing out in Australia, and discovering the Aussie artists that I wasn't so familiar with prior to my time here. Artists like Peter Allen, Jimmy Barnes, John Farnham, and INXS have been sneaking their way into my songwriting process, and I'm happy to embrace those influences.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to get into music?
I don't think I could pinpoint my passion for music to one specific artist or show, but since I was young, I've always dreamed of being on stage, performing to large crowds. And in the past two years, I've gotten a taste what it's like, and it is sweeter than I could have ever imagined. One of my first concerts ever was New Found Glory, MxPx, and Good Charlotte in New Orleans back in 2002 at a huge theatre-style venue, and when I finally did my first theatre show to a large crowd two years back, I felt as if my dreams were starting to come full circle.
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, etc ...
I do simple vocal warm ups, sing certain melodies that start off low, then gradually rise to a scream. I also swear by a glass of Jameson with honey, ginger, and lemon. It's a preshow ritual of mine.
What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?
So far, I've opened up for a very strange list of artists. I've shared the stage with Underoath, Iggy Azalea, Mystikal, and Riff Raff (remember when Vine was a thing?)
But the highlight of my career thus far is doing my theatre show in a venue called The Marquee, which seats about 1,000 people, and it is absolutely intoxicating to play my own music to a receptive audience of that size.
If you could tour with any musical act, past or present, who would they be and why?
It is my goal to tour with Andrew McMahon at some point in my career. Hear that, Andrew? I'm comin' for ya.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Playing music has always been a dream of mine, and I'm very grateful that it has taken me this far, and I can't wait to see what happens in this next chapter.