New Discovery: Buford Pope

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New Discovery: Buford Pope

Early Musical Journey:

Can you elaborate on the moment in the record store when you first heard Bob Dylan and how that experience influenced your decision to pursue a career in music?

” I grew up surrounded by various music genres as my parents had a large collection of vinyl records, mainly consisting of pop and easy listening. My friends and I, passionate about music, used to gather at a coffee shop after school to discuss bands and emerging artists, with a particular focus on Hard Rock. While I appreciated the genre, it didn’t truly resonate with me. After our coffee sessions, we often visited a record store, where you could select an album, grab headphones, and have a listen. One day, a close friend introduced me to Bob Dylan and “It’s All Over Now Baby Blue.” The experience was transformative; it felt like I was rooted to the ground, unable to move or speak. Dylan’s unique style seemed to pass on a message – if you have something to say, say it, but with attitude. This moment opened up the land of musical creativity for me, akin to effortlessly peeling the shells from a boiled egg. Little did I know then that it would be a key moment steering me toward a career in music. ”

You mentioned it took 15 years before you had the confidence to start composing. What was the turning point or inspiration that led you to begin creating your own music?

” Even though I stayed busy as a self-employed individual, handling everything from Christmas trees to used cars, I struggled with boredom and the purpose of my existence. On my 30th birthday, my girlfriend gifted me a harmonica and a holder. With an old guitar in hand, although it was initially out of tune, I adjusted it, and playing it alongside the harmonica felt natural. That marked the beginning of composing music for me. Initially, it served as a means to express long-held emotions before evolving into a meaningful pursuit. ”

Latest Single – ‘If The Blues Were Gone’:

Could you share more about the inspiration behind your latest single, “If The Blues Were Gone”?

” I recall challenging moments, and the glimpse of light in the tunnel made me realize that without setbacks, it’s impossible to truly value the good. We all acknowledge this truth, but in that moment, I simply wanted to express it and hoped someone out there could relate. ”

In the song, you mention the ups and downs of life. Can you delve into how personal experiences shape the themes and emotions explored in your music?

” Melodies continuously emerging, but without something meaningful to write about, a song can’t be considered finished. People rarely change; we still have our core, but our experiences shape us. Experiences can’t be bought; you just have to face them and then translate them into words. ”

Themes and Emotions in the Song:

What specific themes or emotions did you aim to capture in “If The Blues Were Gone”?

” I suppose I just penned down what I felt in that moment. I’ve never aimed for a specific emotion since people interpret what they hear in their own way. There’s a song I wrote titled “Hey Hey Aha,” featured on the album “The Waiting Game.” While many reviewers labeled it as a love song, it’s actually about the challenge of writing a song without relying on metaphors or the same old rhymes. ”

How do you navigate the balance between personal expression and creating music that resonates universally?

” I never thought about that, I just write:) ”

Integration into Your Music Career:

How does “If The Blues Were Gone” fit into the larger narrative of your music career or connect with the themes of your previous work?

” I think it fits well, as I mostly write about the state I’m in. I don’t listen much to my former albums, but if I do, I can always relate to that period of my life; it’s like a diary. An old title can remind me of an epoch in my life. ”

Are there any recurring motifs or ideas in your discography that listeners can find in this latest single?
Well, I guess there are some, you just have to look for it!

Creative Process:

From concept to production, can you walk us through the creative process behind “If The Blues Were Gone”?

I initially recorded it acoustically with just my guitar and vocals, then sent it for bass and drum accompaniment. However, the tempo didn’t align, leading to a re-recording. This process involved several back-and-forth adjustments, requiring constant rearrangement of the other instruments.

You mentioned handling your own production. How did this impact the song’s development, and what challenges did you face in the process?

“It was a lengthy process to finalize this song. Eventually, I realized it had to come to an end, which proved quite challenging. It was both a curse and a blessing, offering numerous possibilities to shape it. Nonetheless, I truly enjoyed working without a monkey on my back, free from constantly watching the clock on the wall.”

Listener Experience:

What do you hope listeners will experience or feel when they listen to “If The Blues Were Gone”?

“It draws inspiration from life itself, and I hope it resonates with someone who connects with its themes. If I’m sure that I’ve done my best to convey my feelings, it feels like I’ve done my part.”

Recording Anecdotes:

Can you share any interesting stories or challenges from the recording or writing of “If The Blues Were Gone”?

“It’s always challenging in the final stages when you’re about to let the song stand on its own legs, like leaving your kids at school, wishing them all the best and hoping they will make it out there.”

How did the initial recording with just your guitar and vocals shape the evolution of the song?
“If I’ve put in a lot of effort to capture the essence with just vocals and guitar, there’s still no guarantee that it will harmonize with all the other instruments. Even in the simplest songs, I find myself contemplating where the groove is, and then I have to start all over again.” This happened quite a lot in this particular song”

Artist Traits:

You mentioned being known as “Mr. Disaster.” How do the traits of seriousness and finding humor in situations influence your approach to music and life?

“I’m not known as Mr. Disaster, but if I were, I’m sure I could dig something funny out of it. I sometimes introduce myself as that because I tend to make a big deal out of everything. It’s very easy to build a big ego about yourself, and that’s where the humor comes in. If I can’t laugh at myself sometimes or make jokes about myself, I’m not allowed to make jokes about others.”

How do you balance being serious and finding humor in your creative process?

” It’s like reading a book on mindfulness, followed by one on personal growth. Then, switch to a comic book to lighten the mood. I’m still in the process of learning not to take life too seriously. Like a boxer can be saved by the bell, we can all be uplifted by a joke! ”

Upcoming Projects:

You hinted at a new album next year. Can you provide any insights into what listeners can expect from your upcoming projects?

You just have to wait for it!

Are there any specific themes or directions you are exploring in your new compositions?

I don’t know, hopefully you will listen to it and have your own idea…

Connect with Your Audience:

Where can readers and listeners find additional information about you and your work?

How do you engage with your audience, and do you have any messages or thoughts you’d like to share with your fans?

I’ve always endeavored to respond to all fan emails, sending signed CDs, lyrics, and more. Though it’s impossible to answer them all, I do my best. I genuinely appreciate the support and want to express a big thank you for this interview; I sincerely enjoyed answering these questions!

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