Following on from a string of much-loved outings these last few years, New York's Johnny Vitulli is now paying homage to his hometown with the release of his wistful new single 'Bronx Love'.
Continuing that rich and vibrant pop-rock aesthetic he has been conjuring since he first emerged, 'Bronx Love' makes for an incredibly warm and inviting listen. With his shimmering vocals layered across a riveting production throughout, he continues to shine as one of the more exciting names on the rise right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Drums. Animal from The Muppets was one of my earliest inspirations. Drumming felt like a creative yet physical outlet to express my inner grievances.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
My roots were sprouted in punk rock. However I was always into melodic riffs and interesting harmonies. My favorite artists tend to blend genres in unique and innovative ways. I had an affinity with frenetic energy or organized chaos. I’d like to think I’ve calmed down and honed my craft, but it depends on who you’re asking. Daily meditation and rampages of appreciation have enabled me to become more grounded in the present instead of always yearning for the future.
Honourable mention, I remember hearing “Under The Bridge” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers for the first time when I was about 5 years old. I recall thinking John Frusciante’s guitar intro was distinctly different from anything I’ve ever heard. I was hooked immediately and further intrigued by Anthony Kiedis’ poetic vulnerability. When I was 13 I was driving around with my best friend while we were listening to Californication. We both received the same thought and simultaneously looked at each other and said “We should start a band” I wanted to play bass because of Flea. He remains to this day my single greatest inspiration.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I had an X Games mixtape that I absolutely adored as a kid. It featured “What I Got” by Sublime and “Superman” by Goldfinger. I would play Superman incessantly. I had a lot of issues as a child and I found solace within the line about counting sheep and trying to sleep since my mind was always so restless and I could rarely find much respite. I liked the idea of becoming superhuman knowing that no circumstances could ever stifle my growth or talk me out of my dreams.
However the first LP I ever purchased was Tragic Kingdom by No Doubt. I had the biggest crush on Gwen; not much has changed.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Yesterday by The Beatles, who doesn’t wish they wrote that song.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
feel like how you do one thing is how you do everything. I’m constantly doing my best to elevate my vibration to the frequency of source. I meditate and hit the gym as often as possible. Nature is also always a catalyst for rejuvenation and inspiration. The more I play the better chance I have of discovering a new song. I feel like our ideas rarely come from us. When I’m truly dialed in I feel like I’m more a spiritual catalyst receiving transmissions from the universe. A stream has been called forth and I’m just here to deliver it. As a wounded healer I feel like I heal myself by helping others.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Kota The Friend, Miles Davis, Andres Segovia, Rx Bandits, Toh Kay, Deftones, AFI, Marvin Gaye, and Rebelution.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Red Hot Chili Peppers
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Free therapy.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Stumbling through all the snakes and fakes in the industry.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Just be yourself.
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Johnny Vitulli's new single 'Bronx Love' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.