A Written Interview With Cornelis Gerard

Continuing our series of written interviews with unsigned and independent acts, we had the opportunity to submit questions to Singer-Songwriter Cornelis Gerard.

How did you start in music?

As a child I had a strange fascination with out of the ordinary instruments; the bagpipes, a melodica at my grandmother’s house and I tried my hand at the recorder in school. I was also listening to all kinds of music from my dads music collection. From classical composers like Dvorzak to pop music like the Beatles. Unfortunately I failed music in secondary school and I thought music was for other people until my friend in school joined a band after only playing guitar for a year. That inspired me to pick it up as well. I was writing songs as soon as I learned my first couple of chords.

How would you describe your music?

True stories and living music. A punk and indie-rock fusion with a groovy rhythm section accompanying trademark lyrical storytelling that makes you laugh and think at the same time.

How do you find inspiration for lyrics?

I try to find the truth that no one wants to say about everyday situations, shining a light on interesting aspects of mundane reality. My ideas come from becoming aware of my internal monologue or catching myself or others saying something interesting during a conversation. Sometimes it’s from snippets of overheard conversations on the tube or the bus. We are all making interesting comments and observations all the time, we just aren’t always aware of it.

Do you have any releases out there?

I have released 5 songs: The Art of Not Giving A Fuck, It Won’t Kill You, Look Back and Laugh, Adrenaline Overdose and Quiet Type. They available on all streaming and downloading platforms. I created a booklet entitled “What Else?” to accompany the songs which contains all the lyrics plus an explanation of the inspiration behind each song. It’s a great way for my fans to support me in a time when few people buy music and it’s a great memento with photos and artwork. I liked the artwork for the cover so much I put it on a t-shirt.

What are your gigs like?

My band brings danceable rhythms to my punk and indie-rock songs. The drummer and bassist have an interest in jazz and dance rhythms so they lay down a great groove underneath my distorted guitar. Most of my songs get people dancing. Expect to move your body and head-bang simultaneously.

Associated Links:

Cornelis Gerard on Instagram 

Cornelis Gerard’s Official Website

Cornelis Gerard on Youtube

Cornelis Gerard on Twitter