INTERVIEW: Jonny Corralitos discusses origins and influences alongside new EP ‘World Of Sound’

Hot on the heels of his teaser single ‘Over Before It’s Begun’, California native Jonny Corralitos returns with his vibrant new EP ‘World of Sound’, a project that shines a spotlight on his expansive artistry and deep love for true musical originality. Bridging gritty, melodic vocals with crisp guitar chops, ‘World of Sound’ offers listeners a joyful, nostalgia-soaked journey that lives at the intersection of indie rock, power pop, and reggae, drawing inspiration from the laid-back grooves of Jack Johnson to the indie quirk of Pavement, but all stamped with Corralitos’ unmistakable modern flair.

So in this interview, we explore Jonny’s unconventional journey, and uncover how he continues to keep the spirit of authentic, joy-filled music alive.

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What was the first rock song or artist that made an impact on you?

AC/DC

Who are some of your biggest musical influences within the rock genre?

Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Hendrix, Eagles, Harry Neilson, Beatles, Deep Purple, Joe Walsh, Pavement, Wilco, Rilo Kiley, Elvis Costello, The Clash, The Cars

Are there any non-rock musicians or genres that have also influenced your music?

Ska: The Specials, English Beat, Madness, Skatalites Reggae: Bob Marley, Aswad, Steel Pulse, The Wailersothers: The Meters, Loggins & Messina, Jackson Browne, Jack Johnson, Bahamas, Belle and Sebastian, Steely Dan.

What is your main inspiration when looking to write new music?

I try and tap into the genres that shaped my musical experience growing up, usually 3 distinct genres come to life: Indie melodic rock, reggae rhythms (and ska); and indie folk. My main instrument is guitar, so it usually starts there. I really enjoy both the acoustic and electric guitars. With electrics, I love the amp choices, the electric guitar tones usually guide my inspiration into different genres
I work with different songwriters to try and find the best songs possible that inspire me. I sometimes co-write and also sometimes use my friends sketches/songs to work on, if they inspire me. My focus is great songs, and creative production/arrangements – that is what inspires me the most.

What do you enjoy most about performing live and do you have any memorable live performance experiences you’d like to share?

The connection one gets with fans…seeing the audience enjoy themselves is a huge reward. One memorable experience: playing live on a 25 ft sailboat, out in the Monterey Bay, CA. The drummer was set up on a floating raft about 20 ft wide/long…his kit was taped down, but one false move would result in his hardware sinking to the bottom of the ocean. There were about 8-10 small sailboats surrounding our boat and everyone was dancing, having a great time. Looking back, it probably was not the safest thing to do, but we were young, and did not think it through….everyone survived.

What has been a particularly rewarding moment in your musical journey so far?

My current solo project has been a liberating experience. I have never done it before and finally built up the confidence to go for it. I love to create multiple genres and be true to myself in regards to my art. Anything goes, as long as I am inspired. The project has been very rewarding on a personal level.

How would you define success as a musician?

Playing music you love; being inspired; enjoying the friendships and experiences along the way; doing it your whole life; feeling like you are connected to a higher power that transcends the need for physical items.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting out?

Get in with a group of talented musicians around your age…play for fun…expand your mindset by playing in different cities that are diverse…keep creating and good things will happen…if you love what you’re doing, it’s infectious…smile; and (important) have a backup way to make a living, go to college, and learn baby learn.

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Listen to Jonny Corralitos’ new EP ‘World Of Sound’ below.