Growing up on the West Coast, Sheridan Reed learned of his love for music. Playing from an early age, he continuously worked to foster his creativity and grow as an artist. Starting his first band in high school, which went on to receive radio play and perform at the Crest Theater in Sacramento, CA, it was merely the beginning.
Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
I’m Sheridan Reed and currently a solo artist, and I sing and play guitar in live performances.
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to Sheridan Reed? How long has the band been around?
Before I decided to breakout as a solo artist I had been part of a few different bands, among them Into the Open and Small City Calling. I’ve been working on my current solo career now since I’ve been in Austin, so about two years.
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
I had debated a lot about going by an artist name for my solo career, but decided that going by my real name was the most honest way for me to present my music.
Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?
I write all of my music, and often I find myself writing about certain specific relationships or instances of connections, albeit different kinds. It’s all pretty introspective. So I guess a lot of the songs end up being about love and connection, or the pursuit of or lack of it. I’ve definitely focused mostly on myself but I’m trying to expand my writing to more external topics as well, and I think to grow as an artist I have to.
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
Lianne LaHavas is a huge inspiration to me, her incredibly succinct lyrics and topics she broaches, to her unconventional chord progressions and melodies. Anderson Paak as well, I’m astounded by some of the amazing music he’s creating.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
My brother was a huge inspiration to me and probably one of the main reasons I thought it was possible to try and make something out of music. He immediately pursued his dreams out of high school and that definitely gave me an unconventional belief that the impossible was attainable.
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, etc …
I typically will have copious amounts of cold brew during the day, and then vocal exercises to warm up closer to show time!
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
The biggest highlight of my career so far has been getting to go on my very first tour this summer around the US. I’ve been to so many new cities and gotten to connect with so many amazing people
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
I would love to tour with Lawrence, they’re not a huge band but I’ve been following them for a while and they are a huge inspiration. Their still young but have such sophisticated arrangements to their music, and their live show is to die for.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I’m just so appreciative that I’ve gotten the opportunity after years of work to focus on and do what I love!