TOMMASO is a songwriter, producer, and artist from Chicago, IL. Having worked behind the scenes for a multitude of artists both on the road and in the studio, TOMMASO takes center stage in his newly launched solo endeavor. Self-recorded and self-produced throughout, his singles look to toe the line between the bright and euphoric side of lofi-rock with the catchiness of indie-pop to create instantly captivating earworms chocked full of sun-kissed vibes.
Each single exists in its own sonic realm and is paired with a playful and captivating music video that brings his lyrics to life. Following on from the release of his highly-praised debut singles ‘Brother’ and ‘Better On T.V.,’ his latest single ‘Sarina’ looks to continue down the thoughtful and nuanced rock n’ roll path and was recently featured on Spotify’s “Fresh Finds: Indie” editorial playlist. This new project was launched as a platform for TOMMASO to not only showcase his songs and unique production style, but to also serve as a cathartic outlet for what he wants to do at his own pace.
What’s your story as an artist?
I think the seed was planted shortly after moving to Chicago from Milan at age 4 or 5. For years, my dad and I would jam out to his favorite CD’s in the car on the way to school – a mixture of classic rock and Italian folk music. I loved music as a kid but became quite obsessed once I started playing the drums. In high school, I played in a couple bands and we’d play at house parties, school events, stuff like that – nothing too crazy. Around the same time, I learned how to record music on my laptop and could sit at my desk for hours making beats in my room. Fast forward to collage, I started a new band, played my first “big” shows, toured the US a couple times, and also started writing songs for the first time. Since graduating, I’ve shifted my focus back to my love for recording and producing, both for myself and other artists and kind of figuring it out as I go.
What do you want your music to communicate?
I don’t really think too hard about it and just focus on creating something honest and genuine. I think naturally, my truth is paired with a certain level of playfulness and positivity. I suppose that on a deeper level, I hope my music can encourage others to do the same and feel okay with being themselves.
What are some sources of inspiration for your storytelling?
I don’t normally plan what a new song will be about. Family and romance are always inspiring but I’m also driven by phonetics and the sonic characteristics of words and syllables. I find that structuring lyrics based on what “sounds good” often leads me to writing something much more profound and beautiful than I ever intended. But also sometimes not at all.
*Who is an artist that you look up to more than others today?
Mmmm maybe Mac Demarco? Mainly because he can pull off having a great career without being on social media.
What’s the record or artist that made you realize you wanted to be an artist?
‘Blood Sugar Sex Magic’ by Red Hot Chili Peppers, ‘Breakfast in America’ by Supertramp, and ‘Sembra Ieri’ by Edoardo Bennato are three records that inspired me to play early on.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about.
’Sarina’ originates from a guitar loop that came to me while in the Sonoran Desert of southern Arizona- my first time away from Chicago since the pandemic about a year ago. The chords gave off a happy yet nostalgic feel, inspiring me to write about an old friend with a nasty addiction problem referred to “Sarina.” Disguised behind pop sensibilities and lyrical ambiguities, this song is written for anyone with a loved one going through hardships, shedding light on camaraderie, friendship and overcoming struggles.
What inspires your sound?
Some of my favorite sounding music is classic 60’s Rock n’ Roll, R&B, and Motown era records. I also have a mild Boom Bap obsession. I generally try to find a tastefully balance between vintage analog and modern digital Pop sounds in my productions.
What’s your favorite tune of yours?
That’s a tough one. I don’t actually release majority of the songs I record and the three that I have released are all pretty special to me. I’m sure that might change in the future once more of them see the light of day.
Where are some things you really want to accomplish as an artist?
Write cool songs, record and produce cool artists, and score a movie one day.
Favorite lyric you ever wrote?
Tell me how’s that heart been beating lately?
I still want to see you when it’s over
How’ve your secrets been keeping?
Know you never have to bend the truth to get closer
I still want to see you when it’s over
Was there ever a moment when you felt like giving up?
I’ve had projects and bands not work out in the past but it hasn’t made me want to call it quits just yet.
What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
Keep the goal the goal.
Where do you think the next game changer will be in the music industry and entertainment scene?
Probably Tom Delonge rejoining Blink-182.
