Artist Name: Julian Talamantez Brolaski
Hometown: Goleta, CA
What project(s) are you currently working on?
Besides promoting my new album, “It’s Okay Honey,” which comes out on August 4, 2023, I’m working on a book of poems called “Give Everything to Poetry.” It’s about exactly what it sounds like, if it can be said to be about anything—giving everything to being an artist. I’m also writing songs for my next album. I have enough material, just trying to figure out an organizing structure for it. I’d love to get into the studio soon and get these songs down. I’m also working up an album of my interpretations of traditional folk songs. But with my own spin on it, my versions of the lyrics, sometimes my own words.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?
For me, my poetry and music are intertwined, and I just want to be able to live as an artist. I decided in 2016 that I was going to dedicate my life to that. For a long time, I thought it was impossible to be an artist for a living. I’m not quite there yet, but getting there, more and more organizing my life around poetry and music.
If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?
I’d probably be a private detective. Or maybe a lawyer. Something where you have to get very granular, obsessive, and detail-oriented. I always wished I had the skills to be a painter. I’m a little jealous of painters, that they can point to their painting on the wall, and say look, there’s my art.
What is your favorite downtime activity?
I love to read. I love to sit and look at the ocean with my feet in the sand. I love watching the sunset. I’m very good at relaxing.
Who is your biggest celebrity crush?
Brad Pitt.
Who is your favorite sports team(s)?
I like baseball and basketball, but I’m not the hugest of sports fans. I used to love going to Oakland As games, and I’m sorry to hear they’re leaving Oakland. I like the Boston Red Sox, too.
What is the last movie that you watched?
“Asteroid City.”
What is the last album you listened to?
Melissa Carper’s new record, “Ramblin Soul.”
If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That is simply an impossible question. I think it would have to be a mixtape.
What is the greatest country song of all time?
“Lovesick Blues” by Hank Williams.
What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?
I love Paris.
What is your favorite meal?
Crispy chicken tacos.
Who is your dream duet partner?
Hank Williams.
Who would you like to go on tour with?
Bonny Prince Billy. Or Orville Peck, Charley Crockett, Melissa Carper.
What is your ultimate career goal(s)?
To be supported by my music and my poetry, and to live a long and happy life doing what I love.