Photo by Amanda Villegas
Chris Poulson is an American musician originally from Burbank, California. He began his music career as the drummer and backup vocalist for the pop/rock/alt band Rock Kills Kid, which signed with Fearless Records in the early 2000s. Through extensive touring across the United States with Rock Kills Kid, Chris gained invaluable experience in the music industry.
After his time with Rock Kills Kid, Chris decided to shift his focus to singing and songwriting. In 2021, he made his solo debut with the release of his 3-song EP titled “Fall into Pieces.” This release showcased his versatility and skills as a singer-songwriter. The EP was made available on all major music streaming platforms, allowing his music to reach a wide audience worldwide.
Building on the success of his debut EP, Chris released his highly anticipated new single, “Can’t Let Go,” in July 2022. This release marked a new chapter in his musical career, revealing a different side of his artistry that hadn’t been heard before. “Can’t Let Go” received rave reviews and garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying Chris as a true creative force in the industry. The accompanying music video further enhanced the impact of the song and showcased his talent as a visual artist.
In March 2023, Chris returned to the studio with his trusted producer and engineer, who also worked on “Can’t Let Go,” to create his latest musical offering, “Gone Without a Trace.” This new release hit all streaming platforms on April 21st, 2023. It demonstrated Chris’s evolving musical style and featured catchy pop-like hooks that left listeners eager for more. “Gone Without a Trace” provided a tantalizing glimpse into the direction Chris is taking with his music.
Looking ahead to 2024, Chris Poulson has exciting plans for his music career. He is set to release more new music along with live shows lined up in and around the Los Angeles area. With his talent, dedication, and the continued support of his growing fanbase, Chris is poised to make even bigger waves in the music industry in the years to come.
Where are you based?
Toluca Woods, CA. (just outside of Burbank, CA. where I grew up)
How long have you been making music?
For the better part of 30 years.
What genre would you consider your music to be?
I’ve always been heavily into Rock. Today, I would consider my music to be in the Rock/Pop/Alternative genres.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I was born into a family of musicians on my mother’s side. I started playing the snare drum in my middle school band class. My parents next door neighbor found this out and asked if I would like to borrow his complete drum set to play and practice on. He explained he used to play back in the day but didn’t have much use for them so he figured at least they would be put to use if I used them. From there the drummer in me was born.
What are your biggest musical influences?
Well, most don’t know this about me, but I grew up listening to Country music at a very young age because of my Mom. My acquired musical taste has changed and been influenced throughout the years. Starting off Country, then listening to Rock then progressing into the Punk Rock scene. From there I was heavily into Grunge which flowed into Pop/Rock. Bands and/or artists that have influenced me range from the likes of Nirvana (Kurt Cobain and Dave Grohl), Foo Fighters, Metallica, Silverchair (Daniel Johns), Green Day, Blink-182, Seether, George Strait, Breaking Benjamin, Shinedown, Bush, Goldfinger (John Feldmann). The list goes on and on, but those are some that have influenced and/or shaped my sound.
Are you signed to a label or are you an independent artist?
I am not currently signed to a label, however, I am actively seeking. Currently rocking the independent side of things.
What have been the biggest challenges in your music career?
I have faced many challenges in the music industry. From my beginnings as a drummer and back-up vocalist. Your duty as a drummer is very important. You are the backbone of the band and what the band needs to stay in time and as solid as possible. At times as your music changes you have to be able to adapt and sometimes adapt quickly, especially when you’re a signed artist. There are a lot of eyes and ears on you, so you have to bring your A-Game, a lot! As a vocalist and guitarist came with a little more ease for me. But, it still came with challenges. Being the lead singer/songwriter, you’re expected to bring the “hits” to the table. Sometimes cranking out as much as 50-100 demos in a few months’ time frame. Which can be exhausting! Even as many songs as you can muster up, some or even most will never see the light of day. And, that’s the sad reality of it all. No matter how hard something seems or how difficult it may appear to be. I’ll push till I can’t push any more. To me… I’m not in any competition with anyone. I am only in competition with myself. To better myself and my craft to the best of my abilities. Music is already a difficult scene to break through. However, I believe timing is everything. Right place, right time, if you will.
How many songs or albums have you released to date?
I was the former drummer and back-up vocalist for the rock/pop act; Rock Kills Kid, signed to Fearless Records in the early to mid 2000’s. We released one 6-song EP which hit all major record stores and streaming services worldwide. As a singer-songwriter and guitarist, I’ve released one 3-song EP titled “Fall Into Pieces,” and 2 singles the following years, “Can’t Let Go” and “Gone Without a Trace” which were all released on all available streaming services worldwide.
Can you tell us a few things about your latest release?
My latest release, “Gone Without a Trace” came out April of 2023. This is a track I wrote over 10 years ago and decided I would bring it to life in 2023 as my newest musical offering. It tells a story about losing someone close to you and they never got a chance to say goodbye. The song is based on a true story, where a friend of mine whom I started to grow feelings for was in a sudden and tragic car accident that took their life. It’s a cry for healing in a sense, “why did you go and not say goodbye?” This can resonate with many as we have all lost someone close to us. Whether it be a loved one, family member, brother, sister, etc. Sometimes we don’t get a chance to say goodbye, which leaves an unfulfilled void that can last for a very long time. Now, if you watch the music video, it takes on a whole different perspective and meaning. It portrays the loss of losing oneself due to mental illness. Which is a topic that has become more prominent in today’s world more than ever before.
Any plans for new music or upcoming projects we should know about?
2024 brings new music and live shows for my music ventures. I am currently in talks with additional songwriters and producers who plan to take my music to the next level. You can expect an exciting new release within the coming months of early 2024. Which should include an acoustic track to follow along with live shows. I have also teamed up with Dirtbag Clothing (www.dirtbag.com) who have taken me on as an endorsed artist. The new year brings new possibilities. With that being said and as much as the music world can be very unpredictable. I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
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