Couchsurf talks debut EP, personal struggles, and upcoming tracks-- exclusive interview

Jul 24, 2020

Genre-bending artist Couchsurf is already making serious waves in the scene with his debut EP Don't Be Sorry, Do Better. You can check out the record right here on All Punked Up!

We got to sit down with the talented Couchsurf to discuss his EP as well as the personal struggles that have influenced his life. Check out the interview below!

Be sure to keep up with Couchsurf on social media!

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Take us through the writing process for your EP. What were some of your successes and challenges while writing and recording this EP?

I finished the first few songs in early 2019. It took some serious patience as I was working Coachella/Stagecoach in Indio, CA and moving to Nashville, TN in the months following. I finished writing the record in June and went back to Atlanta to finish recording in August. It was a longer process than I was used to, but it was well worth the journey. I learned more about what I want out of music while writing DBSDB and it's a solid start to my wild journey as COUCHSURF.

What do you hope fans get out of your record?

I want to inspire people to love themselves and be confident. There is so much sad music in the world and I'm personally over it. I want to pull people off the ground, dust them off, and send them back into the world with a smile on their faces and fire burning in their heart.

If you could describe the EP in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

Believe in yourself. Quit making excuses for why your life sucks and take steps toward becoming the person you were always meant to be without input from your unmotivated friends. F*ck the lazy haters. They don't know you like you do.

Which track are you most proud of and why?

I'm most proud of "Hundreds & Tree" honestly. I love my hometown of Atlanta and it reminds me of a crazy night in the city every time I bop it. It's always my first recommendation when it comes to this record.

How did your experience of busting butt to get onto some Warped Tour 2018 dates shape you as a musician? As a person?

I think it showed me that this career choice was what I am meant to do with my life. Driving upwards up 10 hours every day and working 12 hour days left most feeling drained, but I was invigorated and ready to tackle each day with every ounce of my being. Meeting the thousands of fans and performing across the country showed me that I am ready for the big stage I've always imagined I could perform on. I've never been more ready for what is coming next.

What have you been listening to lately? What artists do you enjoy? What artists inspire you?

Holy sheesh, I jam SO MUCH MUSIC. My favorite bops lately have come from Soran, Co-Stanza, Nick Lutsko, and The Wrecks. My all time favorite artist is somewhere between Circa Survive, Charlie Puth, and Bruno Mars.

What has the transition been like from your struggles to your rising success as COUCHSURF?

As you may know, I lived in my van for 2 years and my friends across the country that took me in to sleep on their couches are really the reason I am where I am. It allowed me to find my center and save while also investing in my music career. I lost a lot of long time friends by leaving my hometown and deciding to pursue music on my own, but I truly believe that it is the only way I'm going to be able to build a brand that reflects the message I want the world to hear. All of this struggle led me to professionally songwriting in NYC. I still can't believe it. I am at a point now that I actually seek out the struggle because I know that that pain leads to joy if I let it.

Do you have any advice for someone who is trying to find hope in their current struggle?

Listen to the words of the songs on my EP and really think about how they apply to your life. I want you to love yourself and put your dreams before anything or anyone else in your life. If you want it bad enough, you'll give up the things holding you back to make it happen. The past made you who you are today, but that isn't who you have to be for the rest of your life. Bring your future to life starting right now. You can do it.

Do you have anything else you want to say to your fans or APU readers?

On August 28th, I'll be releasing a collaboration unlike anything I've ever written with the one and only LEXIS YELIS. No one could ever expect this and that's what I love about writing. I have to keep you people on your toes! I hope to be touring the entire USA in 2021/2022 depending on the COVID situation. Keep your eyes peeled for details regarding that. I appreciate the opportunity to speak with you all and hope to chat again very soon!