Joe Sneva is a singer/songwriter whose raw and rugged, folk tinged alt/rock is bright with beachy surf vibes and earthy with an honest work ethic. From Conway, Washington, located 50 miles north of Seattle, Joe is a free spirit and lover of simpler times. Growing up on a farm as the youngest of six children, Joe first found his love for music listening to a Bob Dylan cassette his parents would frequently play on the way to church. After begging his parents for two years wanting a guitar, they finally gave in and granted him his wish.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
Kamil) Hey Joe Sneva, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?
I've always been a fan of music ever since I can remember, being in the school choir in elementary school and that sort of stuff. But I remember around middle school when my brother Josh introduced to Bob Dylan's music, and it was all over after that.
How do you balance your time in the studio with other commitments such as a part-time job, family, admin?
Balancing time between music and work and family is definitely a challenge. But I think my love for music is so strong, that I always find time to create, no matter what. Writing music is a priority. It's therapy. I have to do it or I'll lose my mind.
Your latest song is '100 Wildflowers'. Can you tell us more about the making of it and if there were any unusual things happening during the process?
I wrote 100 Wildflowers on a scorching hot day outside my house in the yard. Daisies and Dandy Lions were popping up like crazy and it just came out. There's a very light, innocent non-aggressive feel to the song. A reflection of that day. It was floating in the air around me, and I just grabbed it.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
A quick message to my fans: Hope you're all digging my tunes. I write from the heart, try and make my thoughts and feelings a decent listening experience. Writing music keeps me young and gives me joy in my life, so I REALLY hope it does the same for people who choose to listen to it.
What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?
If I wasn't so busy with music, work, and life stuff in general, I would definitely be surfing more. The ocean is my other therapy.
How do you know when a work is finished?
I'll listen to a final draft in my car, usually take a little road trip and see if it feels good that way. If it does, then I know my song is done.
Can you write what was your best performance in your career? How do you remember it?
I don't have a particular favorite show in mind, but years playing the LA circuit sticks out as some good times. Playing The Roxy, House of Blues, and Whiskey A Go-Go were epic.
Do you have a mentor or coach?
No mentor or coach. Just a Boss, and that's Bruce Springsteen.
Who is your favourite musician?
As noted above, Bruce Springsteen is my favorite musician. Followed closely with Bob Dylan then Brian Wilson.
What are your plans for the future?
Plans for the future is simple. Just always keep creating. Keep playing shows. Keep writing tunes that feel good.