Steven Lemon has always believed that great songs begin with timeless melodies and honest emotion. Drawing inspiration from the songwriting traditions of the 1950s and 60s while embracing the warmth of modern indie-pop, the New Jersey artist has developed a style that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary. His latest single 'Still Goin’' continues that journey, exploring the complicated emotions of moving on when part of you is still looking back.
Taken from his forthcoming album 'The Imprisoned Mind', the track reflects on the tension between pride, heartbreak, and the difficult process of letting go. Rather than offering easy resolutions, Steven embraces the emotional grey areas that so often define life’s biggest transitions, allowing heartfelt songwriting and memorable melodies to tell the story.
So with the new single out 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?
I started playing the trumpet in 4th grade. I was pretty good until I was derailed when I got braces. I had to switch to guitar! Was a good thing though.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I loved big-band orchestral music and oldies like Buddy Holly and The Everly Brothers. I also listened to a LOT of Queen in those days.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I'm pretty sure it was "Sports" by Huey Lewis and the News. I had it on cassette!
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
There are so many... never really thought about it, but for some strange reason "Top of the World" by The Carpenters is jumping in my head!
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I don't. I try not to think about it too much. I feel like my brain is constantly monitoring life and I'll have little melodies or rhythms drop in my head... and if I'm near a piano or a guitar, I'll sit and see if there's something there. If not, I'll record a voice memo on my phone and get to it later. There's no rush for me, since my process is more organic and it just sorta shows up when it's time.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Ron Sexsmith is a Canadian songwriter that is ALWAYS heavy in my rotation. I LOVE Judee Sill. Her songs are so amazing and nobody sounds like her. The Beach Boys have been on my mind lately as well. I'm a huge fan of Sabrina Carpenter, and that might surprise folks. I'm into a band called The Bean Tones right now, too. They absolutely nail that old-timey classic sound.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I think it would be so much fun to play a show with Ben Folds. That was something that would have blown my mind 20 years ago... and still would today.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
I like the creativity of it... the ability to make something out of nothing. I can't build a shed or a barn... but I can make notes make a little sense and sound fun most of the time.
And what is the most frustrating part?
I remember frustration as I was learning, but not so much these days. I don't focus on the frustration... I think that's why it's such a fun thing for so many people.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The best piece of advice is to embrace who you are as an artist. I remember praying to God that I could sing like Freddie Mercury someday. FAIL. Haha. We were made to be ourselves! Trying to be someone else or too much like someone else robs you of your individuality. Additionally, don't do things that are too complicated. Keeping it simple is better, unless you can absolutely pull off the super complicated... but who wants that pressure? Just be the best you!
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Steve Lemon's Still Goin'' is out now. Check it out in the player below.