Canadian-born genre bending artist Jutes is not one to beat around the bush: from his lyrics to his sound and aesthetics, he either tells you how he sees it or straight up shows you how he does it. 

His loyal fan base has followed him since 2016 when he released his independent breakout “Cocaine Cinderella” which gathered over 5 millions streams. That was only the prelude to his debut EP Overrated, released in March and already scoring over 20 million streams worldwide.

WIth his unique mold of alternative, pop-punk, and hip-hop, Jutes proves to be an emotionally-charged chameleon whose lyrics aim at letting no stone unturned when it comes to both love and vulnerability just as much as cockiness and irreverence.

Tunes such as Backseat (Kiss Me), produced with longtime comrade in art Tarro features Sixpence None the Richer’s iconic alternative hit “Kiss Me” and turns it into an apocalyptic tender love story with lines that read: “We might never get the chance to live again, looks like the world is ending, so kiss me.”

Other tracks like the casually devastating “Movie” bring all the attitude and cheekiness center stage with zingers such as “I’m so over you because you’re so basic.” 

At the end of the day, the seven-song shows Jutes’ to be who he really is: hopeless romantic trying to find his way through the world while turning his diary into a kick-ass, unique blend of modern and innovative sounds paired with pungent lyrics.

Artists like Jutes are electric and emotional and we can’t really go without the music they make, so here’s what Jutes himself told us about his story and creativity.

How did growing up in a small town shape your creativity?

My grandpa was an artist so I learned how to draw from him at a young age and have been creating ever since. I’m not sure if the small town part affected any of my creativity. I guess me being bored and in the middle of nowhere made me want to draw more and kind of live in my own world.

How did you get into music?

My dad was a drummer in a rock band so I was around music a ton growing up but never considered making music until I was in film school and heavily hating my life. I used music as a way to escape the situation I was in and it worked!

You seem to blend different genres together in a very fluid way. Do you have a favorite style of music? 

My dad raised me on rock music. We’d listen to Van Halen (RIP), Pink Floyd, Mötley Crüe, etc. Then I started playing basketball and fell in love with hip-hop. 

Who are your all time musical icons?

Kid Cudi and Red Hot Chili Peppers

What is your creative process like?

I generally hop on the mic and freestyle nonsense until it sounds cool, and then I write lyrics to the melodies. I record myself at home most of the time

What inspires your lyrics?

It depends. Usually I try to capture whatever I’m going through at the time but memories and past experiences are also good inspiration sometimes

Tell us about your latest EP

On this record I decided to mix my old hip-hop vibes with the new pop punk sound I’ve been into. The pop punk element can be subtle at times, but I think I blended it nicely in my own way.

How are you coping with not being able to tour and perform?

I’m pretty introverted so part of me loves just hiding in my room, but the other part really wants to get out and see my fans. They give me so much life when I feel shitty.

What’s the future looking like for Jutes?

The future is looking pretty great. Leveling up at all times and writing the best songs of my life right now. This next album is shaping up to be a good one.

Watch ‘Bad Dream’ here: