Getting To Know: Joshua Crumbly

Renowned bassist, producer, and songwriter Joshua Crumbly is set to drop his highly anticipated EP "P.S." on February 8 via Switch Hit Records, marking a significant milestone in his musical journey. To celebrate the release, Crumbly will host an electrifying EP release show at The Sultan Room in Brooklyn on February 22. Grab your tickets now to witness a night of unforgettable music.

The EP's latest single, "Steps," features the extraordinary talents of multi-disciplinary artist and activist Samora Pinderhughes. Reflecting on the collaboration, Crumbly shares, “Working with my musical soulmate and brother, Samora Pinderhughes, has been an incredible experience. From the moment we met at Juilliard as freshmen, we've shared a unique connection and understanding of each other's artistry. 'Steps' is the culmination of years of collaboration and growth, capturing the essence of our musical journey together."

"Steps" follows Crumbly's previous hit single, "Morning," released late last year and available on all streaming platforms. Don't miss out on adding these soul-stirring tracks to your playlist rotation.

1. "Your upcoming EP 'P.S.' is described as a bridge to your forthcoming third full-length album. Can you tell us more about the themes and inspirations behind this project?" 

I started to realize that looking back on the past often seemed way more fun than when I was actually going through & experiencing the many of the moments. The retrospect point was almost always filled with more gratitude than the journey itself. I began to wonder about the possibility of carrying more of the good feelings with me more continuously as I experience things. As kids, the decisions we choose largely lead down the path that brings the most joy and it’s so easy to let that go along the way - but we don’t have to. So the next full length is definitely a continuation/  the next steps of reflecting on these sentiments. 

Also, I made the foundational themes for both this EP and next full-length on synthesizer which is contrary to my first two albums that are out- in which the themes began from the bass guitar. Piano was actually my first instrument, so there’s lots of full circle happenings in my thoughts and instrumentation-wise on these two projects. 

2. "Collaboration seems to be a central theme in your work, particularly evident in your latest single 'Steps' featuring Samora Pinderhughes. How do these collaborations shape your creative process?"

I truly love true collaboration. It is one of the greatest gifts I’ve got to experience as a solo artist. I’m constantly surprised at the beauty and uniqueness that each of my friends/ collaborators bring to a song / in the live settings too. 

I think it’s such a powerful thing when your values and reflections align with someone else’s in the most beautiful way.

 I sent Samora the instrumental track with no instruction or information on the concept behind the album. The track was just labeled ‘steps.’ And the lyrics he came up with fit so perfectly to the overall concept of the EP. I was super excited and called him and told him how perfectly the message conveys the sentiments behind the album and he replied “ I know you bro.’’ He said he just saw the title ‘steps’ and the words came to him. 

He’s definitely someone that I consider to be a brother and a musical soulmate. Every time we play together it feels like a pause button is hit and  clarity and immense gratitude fills me - to not take this life for granted.

3. "The concept of embracing the energy and outlook of youth is prominent in your EP 'P.S.' How do you infuse this sense of youthfulness into your music, and what significance does it hold for you?" 

I think the youthfulness resonates symbolically through the foundations of this project being created from the piano (synth) which took me way back to when I was five years old making beats with my Dad on an Ensoniq synthesizer we used to have.  These songs took me back to those good times. 

I always search for the light when I compose music & then I hope to pass that along. A couple of years back, My Dad said that he can’t wait to hear what I write when I’m really happy again. I think this EP reflects the steps toward that hope for sure. It’s a lot more upbeat and danceable than my prior released music. 

I’m looking forward to mixing these new songs in with the songs from ForEver. I think it’s going to be a really cool experience live. 

4. "Your journey to finding the right label, Switch Hit Records, is quite serendipitous. How has this partnership influenced the direction of your music and the creative freedom you have?"

I literally met them at a kickball game, my good friend Sarah invited me to. It was literally perfect timing - because I had new music and had been wanting to just have fun again. I had no idea it was for a label or anything and I couldn’t be more grateful - They’re really supportive and enthusiastic about the projects & genuinely nice people too. 

5. "From collaborating with artists like Little Dragon to reconnecting with childhood friends like Samora Pinderhughes, your EP seems to be a culmination of meaningful connections. How do these personal relationships contribute to the overall narrative of 'P.S.'?" 

It was so great collaborating with Samora and Erik and Håkan of Little Dragon. I crossed paths with Little Dragon during a time in which I had come to realize how important it is to be in environments in which everyone can pour as much of themselves into it as possible and where everyone's voice is heard and appreciated as well as wanting to experience collective joy- and Little Dragon is all about that. They value family and having fun making the best music possible. I felt a connection right away when I met all of them and when we play music there’s a special energy that is present. I admire and love my Little Dragon fam.