Follow Bo Baskoro
Photographer : Shayna Vandergriffe
What initially inspired you to pursue a career in singing?
Seeing an episode of “Smallville.” There was a breakup scene and “Where I Stood” by Missy Higgins was playing and I loved how the music added to the moment.
Can you tell us about your musical background and training?
I got my education in music composition and always borrowed a friend's guitar to learn and practice. My mom had a piano so I learned piano and theory on that. Then started writing music and playing with friends
Who are some of your biggest musical influences and why?
My biggest inspirations were Jack Garratt and Jack Antonoff. I loved their production style and I loved the honesty and the uniqueness of their lyrics.
What genre of music do you feel most connected to, and why?
I think cinematic music. i think my passion for music comes from seeing how it emphasizes the emotions of a scene in a movie/tv episode or video game. So cinematic music gives me the freedom to imagine whatever kind of story or scene I want when listening to it.
How do you approach the process of writing or selecting songs to perform?
Mostly whatever fits the melody or the production. Often though, I come up with the lyrics, theme or a line which can inspire the sound too.
What do you hope listeners take away from your music?
That its good haha, and that it connects with them.
What challenges have you faced as a new singer, and how have you overcome them?
It’s been pretty lonely. I don’t know why but it’s hard to make songwriter friends and it’s been discouraging doing most things on my own.
Can you describe your experience with performing live? Do you have any memorable moments you'd like to share?
Yeah once I was supporting Tessa Violet and during the second song my guitar strap broke and my guitar fell on its head and cracked and I just accepted it and kept on going with full energy, danced along and laughed it off. The crowd loved it.
How do you stay motivated and focused on your musical goals?
it’s really hard to. I literally have to set reminders or make a schedule for myself. I think it has to do with the “loneliness” thing.
What are your aspirations for your music career in the near future?
One of these days I’d love to have my music in a scene on film or tv. That would make everything come full circle I think.