Xander Moon Interview

What inspired you to start creating music?/ How long have you been creating music for?

My mother first introduced me to music. She's a classical singer and flute teacher, so I was introduced to the world of classical music. I started learning to play the piano and later the French horn. I now study French horn and piano in the classical music realm. However, I was always more interested in writing songs. I would constantly write songs, sing, and try to come up with melodies. I remember doing this since I was six or seven, just freestyling and mumbling words and melodies even though I couldn't speak English at the time. When I was 12 or 13, I switched to a jazz piano teacher who introduced me to the world of popular jazz music. That's where I really delved into arranging and writing songs, understanding chords, and creating melodies. In 2022, I bought a laptop and an interface with the money I earned during my military service in Austria. I also got Logic and taught myself how to produce and mix. I'm still learning, and it has been two years, but I have a lot more to learn. What interests me is not just the end product but the process of learning and absorbing every piece of information out there. That's been my music journey, and currently, I'm in my fifth semester of French horn.

Do you have any placements? If you have had any placements, who have you had them with?

This is actually my first professional venture, like a sample pack. I haven't had any placements with major companies, films, or labels yet, but hopefully, they will come in the future.

What vibe were you trying to achieve in the sound pack?

I wanted to create my own sound, for sure. It was during the summer when I made the sample pack, coinciding with my search for a sound for a project I'm currently working on. I approached it with a singer-songwriter perspective. I also kept in mind that there are many people making beats and creating different genres. So, I aimed to write samples that could fit into multiple genres, making them versatile for anyone to use.

How do you see other creators and producers using a sample pack?

Honestly, I'm not entirely sure, and that's the fun part. When I create a sample pack, I visualize a finished song in my head. However, the exciting thing is that the finished song will be different for each person. Each individual will create something unique with it. I might create a lush and mellow song starter, but someone else might chop up the sample and use it in a drill beat or whatever comes to their mind. The possibilities are endless, and that's what makes it exciting.

Do you have any specific tips that you would recommend for creators when using this pack?

I would say, when you listen to a sample or a specific sound, try to hear yourself and the first artist that comes to your mind. You can take inspiration from that artist and use the sample to create a similar sound if you're making a beat. When it comes to production, I made the sample pack with my own sound, and I'm eager to collaborate with others and their unique sound. This collaboration will bring forth a new sound and creative possibilities.

What advice would you have for upcoming creators?

One of the challenges I've faced, although I'm not as experienced as others, is thinking too straightforwardly. It's something I've found to be problematic. When you're working on a song or a production, someone may tell you that it's good, but it might not be the best version of the song. There have been songs where I've reworked them multiple times to create the best version. So, I believe it's crucial to have an open mind and not let your ego get in the way. Ego can be a big obstacle in music and in general. Sometimes, our pride in our creations is so strong that we refuse to see the bigger picture. It's important to not listen to your ego and be willing to figure things out. When someone says they don't like something, it's okay to still give it a try. Even if it doesn't work out, at least you've explored the possibilities and have a starting point to build upon. Ultimately, things will always turn out differently. I always remind myself not to listen to my ego and to be open to trying everything.

Do you have any upcoming projects that you're working on or planning to release in the near future?

Yes, I do. I'm currently working on my first mixtape called "Hallucination One," which will be released on January 20th. I started working on this project at the same time I was creating the sample pack for B Club. So, there's a lot of songwriting inspiration in the sample pack because I was developing my own sound for my project at the same time.

What are the top three producers of all time?

Quincy Jones, Frank Ocean, and Malay.

What is your favorite studio snack?

My favorite studio snack is Sweet Chili Doritos, accompanied by a small beer.

What's your dream collaboration?

My dream collaboration would be with Frank Ocean.

Interview by Sean P. Jones

You can check out Xander Moon’s sample pack here.