Q: Your song ‘FOCUS’ is incredibly catchy! Can you tell us what the song is about?
MANNIS: Thank you! ‘FOCUS’ is about that moment when you can finally let go and connect with someone on the dance floor. I wrote it for anyone who’s looking for their person, as well as those already in love, ready to spend a night out with their special someone. After a long week at work, I was ready to have a few drinks, go out with my friends, and find somebody to focus on. The following Sunday morning – “FOCUS” was born.
Q: Your voice is AMAZING! What first got you into music?
MANNIS: I’m so thankful to my parents for helping me find my love of music. From an early age they let me try out tons of different sports, hobbies, and instruments to see where my personality and interests drove me. They bought me my first guitar on my fifth birthday and I never looked back – music won over all else early on.
Q: What is the music scene like in Chicago?
MANNIS: I’m relatively new to Chicago so I’m still learning, but I’m always down to connect with talented creators in the area and collaborate! I do know that there are tons of cool venues here though. I had a tour stop at Subterranean pre-pandemic and had an incredible turnout. Looking forward to getting back on the stage in Chicago and elsewhere later this year!
Q: Who are some of your biggest inspirations?
MANNIS: I’m inspired by Jon Bellion, Mike Dean and 94Skrt as much as The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix. I was fortunate enough to intern at NYC’s Electric Lady Studios a few summers ago, which was an incredibly impactful experience to my musical journey.
Q: What is your creative process like?
MANNIS: I strive to foster the most organic process I can. My favorite sessions happen on a Saturday night with some good friends in my apartment or on a Sunday morning reminiscing over the weekend before. I love collaborating when I can – it always brings the best out of those involved.
Logistically, I produce all of my own music and make most of my demos and final instrumentals from my bedroom studio. It was always a goal of mine growing up to be a self-produced songwriter, and I’m so excited to have made that my reality.
Q: What’s coming next for you?
MANNIS: Currently, I’m writing and recording my next EP! My past few drops have helped me start to build a really incredible fanbase, and I just want to give them my best. As Mannis becomes more and more of a tangible brand, I’m ready to hit the road and connect with everyone listening to my music. You can expect new music and live dates from me coming in mid-to-late 2022!
Interviewed by Kaitlyn Westerman
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