New York City-based singer-songwriter Jason Shand has long been a familiar name in the city’s thriving music scene. Drawing inspiration from artists like Elbow, U2, Peter Gabriel, Fiona Apple and NLX, he’s become a staple of the city’s live music circuit, regularly playing venues such as the Bitter End and Rockwood Music Club. His music is a reflection of his diverse influences, and his captivating live performances have earned him a dedicated following over the years.
With his studio music, he’s been winning over fans and tastemakers alike for almost two decades since the release of his debut eponymous EP in 2004. Since then he’s dropped multiple singles and two full-length records, with recent singles “The Petty Narcissist” and “X Factor” both charting at #1 on the World and European Indie charts.
Now, Jason Shand brings us his latest release with the brand new single titled “Selfish Bitch.” This new single takes listeners on a captivating journey, exploring the depths of human complexity and the possibility of redemption even in the most seemingly selfish individuals.
Produced by Jason and his keyboardist John Roggie, the song was created in Roggie’s home studio, where the magic unfolded in almost a single take. Opened by gentle guitar plucks over a hushed kick drum beat, Jason’s smooth voice glides in, spinning soft melodies, crafting an intimate sound on the stripped back intro.
An airy synth tone enters to build anticipation before sliding out and ushering in the full band sound of punchy drums, warm bass guitar notes, clean electric guitar twangs and layered vocal flourishes. The blend of electronic and acoustic drums crafts a solid rhythmic foundation that ebbs and flows as the impact of the played kit drops out.
Capped by Jason’s stunning vocal leads that flutters between soft rhythms and soaring melodic leads, “Selfish Bitch” is an epic indie rock outing with its own unique sound. Jason Shand’s latest outing is a soulful dive into the complicated mosaic of human nature, delivered with a superb musical finesse.
We caught up with Jason Shand to find out more about his musical journey so far, his new single “Selfish Bitch” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Jason Shand below.
Hey Jason, howâs things?
Things are good. Busy writing đ
Whatâs your earliest memory of making music?
I started very late. I didn’t start making music until after college. I had moved to Boston and met a guitar player. I wrote two or three songs that we did a rough recording of – just acoustic and vocals. I remember being mesmerized by the fact that I actually wrote music and lyrics. They were basic⊠but it was a start. I didn’t yet know how to really sing and how to write really good songs. This guitar player was out of my league at the time and quickly got bored with me. He gravitated towards going to jam with other musicians at his level. But I’m thankful to him for giving me the time of day so that I could scratch the surface.
Which artists do you draw most inspiration from today?
Elbow, Olivia Rodrigo, Peter Gabriel, NLX, Lewis Capaldi, Fiona Apple, Glass Animals, Billie Eilish, Sia, Spotted Owls, Beyoncé, Lizzo, Dua Lipa, Harry Styles
How else do you find inspiration for your music?
From everyday life, what’s going on around me. I primarily write about interpersonal relationships… slice of life.
Whatâs been your highlight of the year so far?
Believe it or not, the creation of ‘Selfish Bitch’ has been the highlight of my year because it happened so fast, so unexpectedly. I love when that happens. A close second would be the creation of my single to follow – ‘The Scam Artist’. That happened pretty fast as well. That story is for another time. But ‘Selfish Bitch’ was almost a series of one takes that just kept adding on top one another and next thing I know, it’s released and I’m talking to you about it. A little surreal. Very proud of it’s creation.
What do you love about your local music scene?
So many very talented people.
What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?
A nice scenic drive alone.
How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?
I’m not sure it has lol! I still write about people and relationships and I love blending mild electronica and dance with rock sounds. I’m maturing and getting better I guess? I hope?
Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?
Peter Gabriel. Or Elbow.
How did you find making your new single âSelfish Bitchâ?
As mentioned, making Selfish Bitch has been the highlight of my year because it happened so fast. We kind of knew we were on to something from the get-go. How it evolved wasn’t exactly what I had in my head⊠It just came out even better. Almost every sound on that recording is one take. We’d come up with whatever idea and just put it down and we ended up leaving it. The submarine bleeps, the strings, the electronic drum, the rock drums, the vocals⊠all coming up with it on the spot, all mostly one take. Just going by feel.
What message did you want to get across with this release?
Never judge a book by it’s cover. Sometimes there’s more going on beneath the surface of someone. You never know. Forgiveness and understanding may be in order.
What artist have you been listening to most recently?
BeyoncĂ©’s Renaissance and Harry Styles’ Harry’s House were on super loop for awhile. Spotted Owls’ new single ‘Torres Mouth’. Love it.
Whatâs the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?
I’m a storyteller. Thinking man’s pop.
Whatâs been your favourite live performance so far?
If you’re asking about myself, a show I did at the Bitter End last year. It was electric. Nothing like having the audience sing your songs to you. I haven’t been out to see many acts this year, but if I had to single someone out, my friend and inspiration NLX recently played at Rockwood. Just her on piano, and she was breathtaking. And my friends Spotted Owls were also amazing a couple months ago.
Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?
Elbow, Peter Gabriel, and U2 at Madison Square Garden.
Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?
Listen to your gut and be authentic.
Finally, what do you have lined up for 2024?
Working on a lot of new material – a new album.
Listen to Selfish Bitch below
More from Interviews
INTERVIEW: TATE SEDAR drops “Take It All Back”
Born in San Francisco, raised in London and now based in Los Angeles, TATE SEDAR has spent much of his âŠ
INTERVIEW: Cinematic conceptual album from INYO
Coming out of Los Angeles, newcomer INYO is an artist whose musical vision is informed by a desire to explore âŠ
INTERVIEW: Brand new single from Thomas Azier
Dutch singer, composer and producer Thomas Azier has spent the last twelve years making an impression in the European music âŠ
