interview

✦

interview ✦

Levi Evans is a Los Angeles-based artist carving his own path in the indie music scene with a personalized sound that facilitates introspective lyrics, catchy melodies, and more importantly, a DIY spirit.

Following the buzz generated by his debut EP, Head Chatter, Evans is now set to unveil a series of new tracks in 2025, beginning with the thought-provoking single "Run." This particular song delves into the complexities of relationships from Evans’ perspective, using layered instrumentation and expressive vocals to generate a lively alt-twinged pop production that deserves to be heard. And when it comes to his craft, the singer-songwriter maintains a strong sense of ownership over his creative output, handling everything from composing and recording to the visual elements that accompany his releases—constructing a fully realized artistic world for his growing audience.

Your background spans Dublin, New York City, and Los Angeles. How have these diverse locations shaped your musical identity and influenced your creative process?

Levi Evans: In many ways, moving around was difficult for a kid trying to find his identity. Art was one of the only constants in my life, and it helped me cope as I acclimated to new environments. Although growing up with a nomadic lifestyle came with its share of adversity, one of the benefits of moving so much was making friends from all walks of life and being exposed to the art they consumed. I was always a guest star in my friend groups – often having different circles, even in the same city – that listened to different kinds of music. Although I took lessons in various musical instruments as a child, my musical journey really began at the age of 15 when I fell in love with hip-hop. It took me a while to break into the tight social cliques of a big high school like Santa Monica, but I found my group through the love of creating rap songs and became part of a small rap group called FVSCUT. As I grew older, my love for instrumentation returned, and I started reconnecting with the artists I grew up on, such as The Beatles, Gorillaz, and The Strokes.

I really enjoy “Run,” because it kind of blends this nostalgic ‘90s alternative sound with a high-energy, modern flair. How did this song initially come together?

Levi Evans: The process of making a song varies for me. Sometimes, creating a piece of work can be as quick as an afternoon; other times, it takes years or never gets finished at all. “RUN” was the former and came to me in the span of a few hours in my home studio. I started with a drum beat to lay the foundation for my guitar and bass. The words followed shortly after. Most of the time, the idea of the song is dictated by the first few lyrics. Once I had those, the song’s story became clear to me, and before I knew it, “RUN” had come to fruition.

You're involved in every aspect of your music, from writing and production to visual elements like the music video and artwork. How important is this level of creative control to you, and how does it contribute to the overall experience you want to offer your audience?

Levi Evans: I’ve always had a DIY mentality when it comes to my art. I was curious and found fulfillment in learning new mediums and techniques. Although I enjoyed collaborating—and still do today—I’ve always had an obsession with detail and can be quite protective of my work. Whether it’s the balance of a song's mix, the font in my cover art, or the treatment for a music video, authenticity has always been of the utmost importance when it comes to the things I create and share with the world.

You're part of the nine-piece collective NOFUN! alongside your solo work. How do these two creative outlets differ, and what do you gain from each experience?

Levi Evans: Although both projects are two sides of the same coin, NoFun! allows me to tap back into the more juvenile and raw expression from my teens, while my solo project lets me explore deeper into myself and my vulnerability. NoFun! is a completely collaborative project, and with every member having a solo project, it allows us all to come together and create something we wouldn’t be able to create on our own. It also serves as a support system and community, bringing together artists from all kinds of genres and upbringings.

During your earlier days of tapping into creativity—what artists or genres have been most influential in your development as a musician and songwriter?

Levi Evans: From a young age, I knew I wanted to do something in the arts. The earliest evidence of this can be traced to my first years in elementary school, or as we call it in Ireland, primary school. I used to fill every corner of my homework and worksheets with creatures from my subconscious. I’ve always had a love for music, but like I mentioned in a previous question, it wasn’t until I was about 15, when I moved to Los Angeles, that I started creating my own.

Back then, I solely listened to hip-hop acts from the early '90s—A Tribe Called Quest, The Pharcyde, Biggie Smalls, and Westside Connection), and more contemporary artists like $uicideboy$, Kendrick Lamar, Tyler, The Creator, and Schoolboy Q. I rediscovered my love for guitar and piano at the age of 20 and started exploring singing, which led me back to the bands I grew up on. With my background in hip-hop production and lack of a band, I also resonated artistically with acts such as Dominic Fike, Still Woozy, Mac Miller, and Steve Lacy.

What else can listeners expect from your upcoming releases throughout 2025? Are there any particular themes or sonic directions you're currently exploring?

Levi Evans: 2025 marks a new chapter in my work. With a stacked release schedule, I’ve never been as excited or proud to share my work with the world. Over the past few months, my primary focus has been on infusing high energy into the creation of new music and refining my abilities as a producer and songwriter. Creating a live show has also been fuel for inspiration, and I can't wait to take these new songs to the stage!