What is art today?
According to Spencer Sutherland, art is a shared experience, it is a fluid element.
Art is diversity.
Spencer Sutherland is 32 years old, originally from Pickerington in Ohio (US). Spencer Sutherland is a singer-songwriter (and actor). His debut on American national TV took place in June 2017 when he was chosen as Artist of the Month by Elvis Duran and appeared on the Today tv-show broadcast by NBC.
He sang the single Selfish which, released in February of the same year, quickly reached 4 million streams on Apple Music.
This hit was immediately followed by many other successes: Talk, Tell Me, Fine (2018). And in 2018, he received his first major movie song placement in Honey: Rise Up and Dance with the song Work You Out. It’s actually his first step into the world of cinema. In 2021, Spencer made the move to acting and scored a part in the Netflix movie Afterlife of the Party starring Victoria Justice, with whom he dueted for the song Home.
In October, Spencer started as a guest star on the Amazon series I Know What You Did Last Summer.
But music (and only music) is the sentimental center of his world.
After his debut album In His Mania, he recently released his sophomore album The Drama along with sharing the title tracks, Drama and Hater.
A theatrical take on the classic concept album, Spencer’s LP is a 3-act modern rock opera dripping with arena anthems and Spencer’s signature glam rock vintage flair, as he voyages through the excitement, heartbreak, and resilience that arise from chasing his dreams.
The Drama follows Spencer’s viral 2024 hit, Alive, and the scintillating deluxe version of his debut album, which features fan-favorite single Chicken Little with global superstar Meghan Trainor.
We met him a few days ago and that’s what he told us.
Hi Spencer, how are you?
In your opinion what is art today and do you think the approach to and the perception of art have changed over the years?
I’m doing great, thanks for asking! I think art today is incredibly diverse and fluid. With technology, we have access to so many forms and mediums, which has changed how we create and perceive art. The approach has definitely evolved; it’s more about collaboration and sharing experiences than ever before. I also think in some ways, this has made art, at least a lot of music, seem kind of the same, especially in pop music specifically. It’s easy to get stuck in a specific algorithm and just go along with it, without ever needing to push your art to a different place or another level. Part of making The Drama for me was about pushing my art to be different, but still authentically the art that I wanted to create. I really think that making that jump was what made The Drama my favorite project that I’ve put out so far.
What characteristics must a musician possess to be “successful” in 2024 and which one do you think you have?
A successful musician today needs resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of authenticity. There is so much noise out there, that you really have to be consistent with the music and content you put out, both in terms of quantity and quality. It can be exhausting! You have to be willing to experiment with new types of music or content but also connect with your audience on a personal level. I believe my authenticity and passion for storytelling set me apart. I also have the greatest fans in the world who allow me to experiment musically.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a musician?
Maybe I’d be an Elvis impersonator – does that count as not a musician?
Popularity came with the single Selfish, released in February 2017.
How do you remember that moment and what did it mean for you and your career?
That moment was surreal! Selfish felt like a breakthrough. It was validation for all the hard work and passion I poured into my music. It opened so many doors for me and truly marked the beginning of my journey as a professional artist.
What is your all-time favorite soundtrack (except yours, of course)?
King Creole – the Elvis Movie from 1958!
Following your viral 2024 hit Alive, your album The Drama was released last October 4th and you have already pulled two singles, Drama and Hater.
Can you tell us something more?
Seeing the online response to the singles off this album has been insane! I think since I started posting videos for Alive my Instagram following has doubled or something like that. Same thing for The Drama, the songs just really resonated with people and to me that shows that what I’m doing is working and people have an appetite for it, even if it is a bit off the wall. I always say I wish I lived in the 1970s, and it turns out a lot of people agree!
Why should we listen to this album?
The first reason is because the songs are really really really good. I can’t thank the collaborators I worked on this album with enough. I also think The Drama brings something to pop music that I feel is lacking – big melodies, huge vocal harmonies, bright colors. The glam rock era of music was amazing, and being able to modernize that sound a bit while bringing the vibe of it back is something I don’t think you’ll find in many other places.
Did participating in the X Factor UK in 2017 help your artistic path?
Absolutely! X Factor gave me an incredible platform and taught me a lot about performance and the industry. It was a stepping stone that helped me find my voice and audience.
If you could give some advice to young people who want to pursue the same career as you, what would it be?
Stay true to yourself and don’t be afraid to be vulnerable in your music. Surround yourself with supportive people and keep working hard. Believe in your vision, even when things get tough.
A letter to your future self.
I hope you’re still chasing your dreams and finding joy in your music. Remember to stay grounded and cherish the moments that matter. Keep evolving, but don’t forget where you started. Stay grateful!
Best,
Spencer
Photographer: Lexie Alley