A touch eclectic and a touch enigmatic. It’s basically what we love.
Simple things first – where are you guys from?
I was born and raised in Houston TX, and currently reside in Los Angeles, CA.
How did you meet?
Vanilla Sugar is me! Straight from the womb.
How long have you been playing as a band?
I’ve been actively playing shows for a few years now.
Before you get sick of being asked… where does the band name come from?
I’ll never get sick of being asked! There are two versions of the name.. the PG version is that the name is dainty, and the music is raw and in your face! The R-rated version (and entirely true) is this: I wanted to create something that was me but not my name directly. My nickname is JPVanilla, which brings the first part of the name into play… the second half comes from the term “kitty” sugar… feel free to Google it when you’re not at work or school… and voila! Vanilla Sugar.
What are your influences?
My influences come from life experiences. Every time I go through something heavy, instead of letting myself stay upset, I turn it into song lyrics. Musically, I am inspired by a wide range of artists. Mindless Self Indulgence, KoRn, Allison Wonderland, Grimes, and Billie Eilish to name a few!
Describe your music. What makes you unique?
The music is a mix of a couple different genres. It’s a smooth blend of just enough creepiness, a heavy edge, and pop sensibility.
Do you have any particular lyrical themes?
They can get pretty dark. I have songs about fighting with the part of me that’s always self sabotaging to songs about wearing other people’s skin. I don’t tend to write happy songs. Haha.
What’s your live show like? How many shows have you played?
The live show is so fun! I love a big production. I have a light wall behind me, along with spotlights and fog geysers. I love to put on a show! I think I have probably played about 300 shows.
What’s the wildest thing you’ve seen or done at a live show?
Stage dive! That was so fun. I was nervous because I have never done it before. Luckily the crowd caught me and returned me back to stage safely!
What kit do you use / guitars do you play / etc.?
I have a couple things I play in my live shows – I have a Korg Keytar, Daisy Rock electric guitar, Traktor rig, and I use a Shure wireless headset.
What are your plans for 2019?
I am releasing my first album! We have already shot two music videos to go along with single releases. I will also be touring the west coast of the US in October!
If you were second on a three-band bill, which band would you love to be supporting and which band would you choose to open for you? A chance to plug someone you’ve toured with, or a mate’s band we’ve not heard of before!
I would love to open for Billie Eilish, with Grimes as the opener. That would be a very fun lineup.
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