JRTA On the Making Of “Down Shiftin”
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of "Down Shiftin?"
A moment of confidence. My actual driving. Seriously though, it reflects a significant breakthrough in determination. I was having a wrestling match with myself over whether or not to release my music when someone very important to me confided that they were making a suicide plan. It really spun me out. I had written this other song called Dreams Fade about it which is basically me feeling alone in the world. Then this song followed right after and it's the middle finger to all of it. It is the decision to promote my music and give life my all however much is left.
Can you share any interesting or unique musical elements or production techniques used in "Down Shiftin?"
I took some heat from some "sound experts" for hard-panning the main synth and piano but ultimately decided to leave it that way. Other than that I think it's pretty standard.
What impact do you hope this single will have on your audience?
I hope it brings them joy and makes them feel confident about chasing their dreams.
How has this genre evolved over the years, in your opinion?
I have no Idea. This was the second song I ever made in this genre. It is a minor miracle whenever I make a song that even fits in a genre.
What’s been the most memorable performance of your career, and why?
I was in the middle of a song when I dropped to my knees on stage and it made the stage bounce which bounced my sampler and broke it. like bad. All my backing tracks got distorted. It sucked.