John Rossiter joins us to talk about his latest release Shepherd Head, as well as his 2020 record Welcome to Conceptual Beach. We discussed his songwriter process and how his music has evolved. And, of course, we talked about all things Chicago, including his upcoming show at the Empty Bottle.

Time stamps:

2:15: How long did the album take to come together?

3:12: Is this a new approach to making music for you?

5:28: DId the new approach simply or complicate things for you?

7:40: Has the audience dialogue changed with the new record?

11: What in you helps you have the confidence or courage to put your vulnerable thoughts out there?

12: What did Conceptual Beach tell us?

15: Did you feel like the band had taken it as far as you could have?

17:55: What was the first song on Shepherd Head that proved your new process worked?

21: Was there ever a thought about retiring the name Young Jesus due to the new record being a mostly solo project?

24: When did you realize your voice was as powerful as it was?

26:30: Are you always writing?

29:30: Did not having a band in mind when making this record, did that open up what this album could be?

35:55: Do you feel like you are experiencing a burst of creativity right now?

37:40: How do you feel like Chicago has influenced the music you make?

41:51: Do you find that LA is supportive of you and your music?

44:18: Is there an album or musician that had the biggest impact on you wanting to be a musician?

46:35: Are you more a deep dish or thin crust pizza fan?

47:20: What makes Chicago such a unique music scene?

50:20: Favorite venue to play/favorite venue to go to a show in Chicago?

52:45: What have you been listening to lately?

56:40: Go to cheap drink?

58:45: What can we expect at your show at the Empty Bottle in November?