Chris Garcia is a singer/songwriter in Houston Texas. He is the lead guitar player and front man for Houston band Hiraeth.
The band is fairly new and hasn't released anything official yet, but they are hard at work practicing and writing.
Chris is primarily a neo-soul bluesy guitar player. That's his main bread and butter. When that combines with the other band members’ rock flavor, you have a very interesting combination that will draw you in. We can't wait to hear more from them.
In this conversation Chris tells us how music really brought him through hard times in his life. It's his coping mechanism for things he goes through in life. So, most of his songs he describes as "sad" songs.
Not only did we relate to each other because we both have a love for Goldfish (that's his favorite snack!), but we also share a passion for John Mayer's music.
Here are the top 3 things I picked up from my time with Chris:
1.Making a band work takes intentionality
Chris and his band rehearse every Thursday night and have been for a while. He talks about how he wants people to know that they are serious about their sound the first time they see them live. You have to take things seriously if you want results.
2.It doesn't matter if others don't like my music; it wasn't made for you...it was made for me.
One of the powerful parts of the interview Chris says, “I make music for me…I don’t make it for you…if you like it, cool. If not, no worries. I didn’t make it for you.” I think this is a powerful concept for us who create music and really any kind of art. Who do you make it for? Whose opinions you do let control you?
3.Music helps us through life's difficulties
Chris’ father committed suicide when he was 7. It was an extremely hard time for him and his family. But music was his coping mechanism. It’s what got him through and kept him from making excuses, he says. It’s a powerful moment that really made me think about the power of music.
Sitting down with Chris was a pleasure that really encouraged me. I will continue to follow him and his music. Can't wait to see where his road leads him. This show, although I capture it on video, is primarily an audio podcast show. Search for “Songwriter Snack Time” on your podcast app of choice and subscribe to catch all the episodes.
If you would like to work with me on your music project, I’d love to hear from you. Use the discount code “Snack Time” and get 15% off our first project together.