I would like to introduce you to LA based music artist Civalias, whose EP, You.Me.We. is available on iTunes now. This singer, songwriter, and musician has been heard by millions on YouTube and Grammy winner, John Mayer was even spotted carrying around his EP! You may have heard his music on ABC’s Castle and MTV’s Real World Brooklyn but if you weren’t tuned in, you will be hearing lots more from him in the new year, as he is preparing for a new album. Keep reading to get to know this rising star.

Photo Credit: Mark Brooke

When did you start songwriting?
My first memories of songwriting were probably when I was 7 or 8 on a “Little Tikes” toy piano. I started trying to figure it out again in high school, but didn’t really write anything decent until about 2003, when I finished my first complete song called “Love You”.

Do enjoy writing by yourself or co-writing more?
Co-writing is tricky for me. I am just starting to dabble in the whole “same room” co-writing scene. Right now I am definitely more productive writing on my own. I am just able to focus better. But I hope that with more experience I will come to love both ways equally.

What has been the most challenging song to write that fans have heard?
Probably that “Love You” song, which is not on the EP but I play at shows. Like I said, it was the first song I wrote all the way through, and it took about a year of marinating in my mind to come up with a chorus that I thought did the verses justice. Doesn’t usually take that long to finish a song anymore. I’ve learned a lot since then.

So what are some tips you have for song writing?
There is certainly much more for me to learn here, but this is what I have figured out so far. In my case, the music I’ve been working on for myself and for others has been in the pop category. Its really just taken a lot of listening to other songs and figuring out what it is that makes that song successful. I don’t mean copying. I mean studying the structure and noting key elements and methods that are used to bring a song to life. Once you figure out HOW to write a song, its up to you to dig in and figure out what you are trying to say and say it in a fresh and unique way. My good friend Rupert Hine always says that “the best song that you can write is a song that ONLY you can write.”

What do you do about writer’s block?
Writer’s block is the worst, but I’ve learned that if I stick with it an idea eventually comes. I hate settling for less than what I want in a line, so as agonizing as writer’s block is, the reward of fighting through it and getting where you want to be makes it all worth it.

What instruments do you want to learn how to play?
Lap steel. Those things are so cool. And maybe I am overestimating myself here, but I think that if I locked myself in a room with a cello for a good amount of time I could figure that thing out.

What was the first song you learned how to play on guitar?
Wow. That would probably have to be… “MMMBOP.” Three chords made that one feasible for me.

What was your first guitar?
My first guitar was a Fender classical. Got it for Christmas.I knew it was coming because I “accidentally” went rummaging through my mom’s closet where she kept all the presents and saw it there in all its glory.

Any guitar tips for beginners?
Just stick with it. Its frustrating and painful for a while, but once you reach the other side you’ve got this amazing song-making machine at your disposal. You’ll be glad you put in the time, trust me.

What stage are you at with the album?
Writing and demoing. There is no official date or even label that is set to put out my next album. I’ve just been working in the studio a lot, trying to figure out exactly what I want my next body of work to sound like. I think you can expect to hear a more mature, less obvious record by the time its finished.

I love Civalias. What are the important aspects of a good stage name?
You definitely want to have it sound like an STD or an erectile dysfunction drug or both. People tell me I’ve nailed that part. To be honest, I have no idea what makes a good band or project name. I just tried to pick something that was a bit mysterious but really meant something to me. Above all I think it just has to sound cool.

Is anybody else in your family musically talented?
Yes! I’ve got a very musical family. My grandma plays the viola and I think about 9 other instruments. Then I’ve got aunts and uncles and cousins that are all amazing musicians. I learned how to sing harmonies as a kid by sitting by my mom and dad in church and listening to them sing.

Would you ever do a collaboration song with any singers on YouTube?
I’m not on the look out for anyone to collaborate with, but if the opportunity presented itself I might give it a go.

Can we expect another cover with you and Amy Kuney?
That would be fun! I love Amy. We went to college together. I remember listening to her EP in her dorm room when I first met her. The songs and production were just light years ahead of anything that any of us other aspiring musicians had at that time. I was really blown away. She is very talented. I’d love to do another song with her.

Which one of your musical influences would you like to sing with?
I wouldn’t feel right singing with any of my musical heroes. I think in my head I’d be trying to listen to them but would just hear my own voice and that would ruin it for me. I think it would be more fun for me to be sitting in the front row at a Radiohead show and have Thom Yorke pause to tell me that he thinks I’m awesome.

How have Arizona and LA effected you creatively?
Living in LA can be a double edged sword when it comes to writing. The same excitement and activity that is constantly surrounding you can really motivate you and bring out your best, but it can also be overwhelming and distracting. Its always nice to visit home in AZ and clear my head.

What do you like the most and least about the music scene in LA?
I love that there is always something going on. On any given night you can go out and catch a great act. That also means that its harder to make a name for yourself in LA than in other places, but I don’t really consider that a bad thing. I enjoy the competition of the music scene. It makes the accomplishments more rewarding.

Become a fan of Civalias on Facebook. Follow Civalias on Twitter.