Not long after Sleeping With Sirens‘ third record Feel came out, guitarist Jesse Lawson parted with the band to focus on his new family lifestyle. Now with things back in order, Lawson is right back at it again, pulling music fans into his new solo act. His first two singles, “Tall Trees & Long Drives” and “New Orleans Train,” highlight the soft, acoustic side of Lawson’s songwriting, but after interviewing him, it’s quite clear that there is much more in store for his upcoming debut album.

Check out UTG’s interview with Jesse Lawson below as he discusses his songwriting successes and hardships on his own, his departure from Sleeping With Sirens, and inside information on his new DeliRadio show, Barkeeper.

Since your departure from Sleeping With Sirens, you were off the map for a little bit. Now, you are debuting your career as a solo musician. After years of being in a full band, how have you adjusted to being a solo artist?

It’s actually been a great adjustment; definitely a lot more work but it is very rewarding. Not only am I writing all the songs — lyrics and melodies along with all the music – I am producing the records as well, which I absolutely love.

What became easier and harder as you began making music on your own?

Kind of like what I said earlier, just a lot more on my plate, but very worth it. In a way I am kind of starting over, which is hard, only because I have to work my way back up with a brand new style of music. I am completely thankful to the fans that are supporting me in my new music and believing in what I am doing. Super rad.

Now that you’ve written with both a full band and on your own, what do you realize you prefer?

It’s always fun to collaborate with other musicians to make a special project. But there is something I love about sitting alone with my favorite acoustic guitar and writing music. I love songwriting sometimes even more than performing. It is my escape. I love structuring the right chords and melodies together to make something awesome. Then when I write lyrics. I love that I can say exactly how I am feeling at any given moment.

In terms of your career and personal life, what were your intentions when moving on from Sleeping With Sirens?

Obviously, my wife and I had our first child, and I wanted to take a break from the busy, go-fast life of full-time touring. Now that I am ready to start playing out again and start doing short run tours, it is a very relieving feeling just knowing that I can bring my family out with me at any point in time.

What inspired you to write your recent solo music?

Real life. In Sirens I wrote a lot of the music and Kellin would do all the lyric writing, which he was great at. Now that I am in control of writing lyrics, I have reached in the back of my brain to get anything I have always wanted to write onto paper.

You recently dropped your two singles, “Tall Trees & Long Drives” and “New Orleans Train,” in anticipation of a full-length album. How do these tracks give listeners a first impression of this upcoming record and what can you tell us about what’s to come?

I did those songs in my little studio in my hometown. That’s why they are a little acoustic-sounding and laid back. The full-length record is definitely more rock, but there are some laid-back tunes, some high-intensity tunes, and even a touch of dance. This record is the next level.

Your new music is a lot different from what you used to write with your old band. Was this transition natural or something you were aiming for?

Natural for sure. The kind of music I play now is the kind of music I listen to on a daily basis. I kind of grew out of the harder music. I appreciate it and will listen to Underoath every now and then, but it’s just not where I am musically anymore.

You’ve been hosting the DeliRadio show Barkeeper with your good friend Joe Moxley. How would you describe this show to someone who hasn’t heard it yet?

That it’s the best show you’ve ever heard! It’s just a fun show about tattoos, crazy stories, drinking with your friends, and having a good time. We interview all kinds of people as well, from hairstylists to chefs, plumbers, and even a few minor league hockey players (I loved that episode!). Barkeeper airs every Thursday on the amazing DeliRadio.

How has this experience been affecting you and your solo career?

It has stepped up my social game for sure. I’m not a shy guy by any means, but now I am confident and can sit down with anyone and find something interesting to talk about! Communicating and learning about other people is amazing. Hearing people’s life stories is the best, though!

How have old SWS fans – as well as new Jesse Lawson fans – been reacting to your new music and radio show?

So far, so good! At first it was a little difficult going through the transition phase of Jesse from Sirens to just Jesse Lawson, but I think people are finally starting to appreciate the creativity of what I am doing, and all the passion and hard work I am putting into this project.

What can these fans expect from you in the future, other than a debut album? Any tours on the agenda?

Eventually for sure! I have a few spot dates here and there, a few university shows along with festival dates. Stay tuned. I will be in your city before you know it.

Do you have any last words for your fans and supporters?

Thank you all for making my dreams come true! Without each and every one of you buying shirt and CDs, I couldn’t do what I love. So again, thank you. I will keep putting out the best music I can for you all if you keep listening. Love you guys!

Interview written & conducted by Emma Guido

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Emma Guido

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