The Songwriting of Sawyer Utah

New artists often bring fresh perspectives to the music scene, and Sawyer Utah is no exception. I had the opportunity to dive into an conversation with the writer, producer and indie pop artist, who recently released his EP, “When the Sun Goes Down.” We explored his musical influences, songwriting process, and the creative vision behind his work.

How I discovered Sawyer is actually a funny story. I went to see Aidan Bissett at the Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles, and the opener was Zach Hood, whom Sawyer joined on the road as a guitarist. What first caught my eye was how engaging he was to watch on stage. After going home and doing some research, I discovered an artist who has since become one of my favorite finds through Off The Record.

Sawyer’s music has become the soundtrack to my everyday life, especially songs like “Play With My Heart,” “Lady,” and “Cars.” I think it’s safe to say that Sawyer is going to become one of the most sought-after collaborators over the next couple of years.

Growing up, Sawyer was surrounded by music and influenced by shows like American Idol, which ignited his passion for performance. His early memories are filled with sounds from various artists, including Chris Daughtry, who played a pivotal role in inspiring him to pick up the guitar. “Those early seasons of American Idol really shaped my musical identity,” Sawyer recalls.

The nostalgia of these experiences is evident in his music, as he draws from life experiences, interactions with fans, and memories to create relatable and heartfelt songs. His childhood influences shaped his musical journey and fostered a deep appreciation for storytelling through music.

The title of Sawyer’s new EP, “When the Sun Goes Down,” highlights a period of introspection and creativity. He often trusts his instincts when selecting titles for his projects. “It just felt right,” he shares. The title comes from a pivotal lyric within the opening track “Cars.”

Each song on the EP has its own unique story and origin, ranging from collaborative efforts in Los Angeles to more solitary creations in New York and Nashville. This mix of environments contributes to the diverse sound of the EP, showcasing Sawyer’s versatility as an artist.

When talking about his songwriting process, Sawyer highlights the differences between creating for himself and for other artists. Writing for others is collaborative, often filled with high-energy sessions where he aims to capture the essence of the artist’s vision. On the flip side, when writing for himself, he leans into a more introspective space with headphones on, allowing his creativity to flow freely without outside distractions.

He expressed how rewarding it is to work with other artists, stating, “I want to do everything that they want to do,” which often leads to exciting musical explorations. This collaborative spirit is a testament to his passion for music, and it shows in the quality of his songwriting.

A significant aspect of Sawyer’s artistry is the visual component that accompanies his music. Working closely with creative director Orchie Sorker, he crafts a cohesive visual identity that matches his sound. Sawyer describes their collaboration as a synergy where ideas flow freely, resulting in engaging visuals that enhance the listener’s experience. The recent music video for “Cars” is a perfect example of this, featuring thoughtful details that reflect the song’s themes.

The visuals are an integral part of how Sawyer wants his music to be perceived. By creating a strong visual narrative, he ensures that fans receive a complete artistic experience, immersing them in his world.

With “When the Sun Goes Down,” Sawyer Utah invites listeners to connect with his journey and the stories he shares through his music. His passion for songwriting and commitment to creating meaningful artistic experiences, makes him a notable artist to watch in the indie pop scene.