Kevin Garrett, an up-and-coming singer-songwriter and musician, has already caught the attention of countless listeners across streaming platforms and for all of the right reasons. Recently, the ‘Gone Again’ singer released a five-track EP titled ‘Made Up Lost Time.’ This follows the release of his full-length album, ‘Hoax,’ which was shared with fans back in 2019. With nearly one million listeners on Spotify alone, it is beyond evident that Garrett is well on his way to becoming a household name. His genuine lyrics and powerful vocals are just two reasons that listeners are drawn to his music. In an exclusive interview with ECHO, Kevin Garrett opened up about his new EP, dream collaborations and more.
What inspired you to write/release your latest single “Gone Again” and how does that particular track differ from songs you have released in the past?
It was a twofold adventure. I wanted to write about chasing something lighthearted and potentially fleeting as a means of coping. I learned that I’m relatively incapable of doing that as it has resulted in either myself getting hurt or doing the hurting and so the song stems from that realization. It was also part of my latest EP which was a science experiment in the form of a speed test in releasing music.
How was it to create the video for it? Do you have a favorite scene in it or memory from that process that sticks out to you?
It was a bit of a departure for me as the director wanted me to move a lot more. I’ve always been interested in adding movement to my visuals, but my two left feet tend to get in the way. But baby steps!
Speaking of new music, you recently dropped an EP: ‘Made Up Lost Time.’ How did you decide which tracks of yours ended up on that project? What is the meaning behind the title “Made Up Lost Time?”
In true KG fashion there’s some depth to the meaning. Obviously on the surface the title applies to catching up on something or with someone because of whatever time or experiences that had past. But over the course of the EP I explore some inward reflection and suggest that you can’t make up for lost time, in fact the idea of ‘lost time’ is a projection, in other words ‘made up.’
If you could collaborate with any artist or producer for an upcoming single, who would it be and why?
There are so many artists I want to sing with, so I think on a production end to try and tackle both sides, Blake Mills is someone I’ve been so interested in working with over the years. I’ve been obsessing over an artist called SiR and I think he’s incredible. Steve Lacy would be a very cool session I think. The list is long.
What’s one quote you’ve heard that you want to ECHO out to fans?
“A day without sunshine is like, you know, night.” – Steve Martin
If you could set up a fan in a setting for them to listen to your music, where would it be?
In an ideal world I’d like to put them in a cozy library style room with really great speakers and a charcuterie board. But lately we all have to work a bit harder to find our beach, so I’d probably send some nice headphones and ask them to listen intently instead of passively. Either is fine I guess as long as they’re listening.
What artists or bands have recently inspired you or consumed your time?
This list is very long too. Ethan Gruska has been on repeat. I’ve been recirculating my old Big Thief records. A lot of old jazz now that I’m home with all my vinyl. SiR is one I mentioned. I love Saba. My longtime collaborator and dear friend Moon Mullins released a record recently that is an amazing listen. There are a lot of friends making some incredible music right now, if we’re looking for a silver lining to having to stay indoors so much.
Watch the music video for “Gone Again” now!