Tomm is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Italy. Although he has been writing songs since he was a young child, he didn’t release “Ginger Ale” until he was 16 years old. Despite the fact that his musical career began as a joke, he has since the release of his first single written two albums and an EP and strives to improve with each new project. Check out the exclusive interview below:
1. Can you tell us a bit about where you come from and how it all got started?
TOMM: I am a musician and producer based in Bologna, Italy. When I started making music I only knew how to play the piano and sing, but that played in my favor when it came to learn how to use MIDIs. Now I am a multi-instrumentalist, but I see myself as mainly a bassist and singer. I began my career as a joke in high school, but I soon realized I loved making music and I had a lot of stuff to talk about, maybe even more back then than nowadays.
2. Did you have any formal training or are you self-taught?
TOMM: I received some piano lessons as a child, but I didn’t really put much effort into it. I returned to playing the piano on my own a few years later. I recently discovered that Paul McCartney followed a similar path when he was starting out. I find it funny, although I don’t believe I can quite compare myself to his genius… yet. At the age of 14, I joined a band as a singer with some guys who were very skilled at playing their instruments. I learnt how to play bass and guitar mostly thanks to them.
3. Who were your first and strongest musical influences and why the name ‘TOMM?
TOMM: Actually, the name ‘Tomm’ was given to me by my ex bandmates. Our real names were Christian, Vittorio, and Tommaso. The drummer, Vittorio, came up with these short and snappy sounding nicknames: Chris, Vitt, and Tomm. Regarding my musical influences, I’m a big fan of British alt-rock, such as Arctic Monkeys, Royal Blood etc. However in the past, I’ve drawn inspiration from diverse sources like A$AP Rocky and Chopin as well. I believe that having a broad range of inspiration can always work in your favor.
4. What do you feel are the key elements in your music that should resonate with listeners, and how would you personally describe your sound?
TOMM: I actually hope the day when I can perfectly pinpoint my style never comes, honestly. I enjoy the idea of evolving it from one album to the next, while still maintaining that distinct “Tomm” essence. This is why I faced significant challenges while writing my new LP; I was fearful of it sounding too similar to my previous works. However, if I were to describe it, I’d use the term “eclectic.” I’m not sure if that’s entirely accurate, but it’s what I strive for. I also appreciate the idea of occasionally biting more than I can chew – it adds an interesting dimension to my creative process.
5. Do you feel that your music is giving you back just as much fulfillment as the amount of work you are putting into it or are you expecting something more, or different in the future?
TOMM:
Each time I complete an LP, particularly my concept albums, I experience a sense of fulfillment. However, like any artist, I always strive to improve as I continue on my journey. I aspire to reach a broader audience, perform in larger concerts, and create even more polished releases. Interestingly, a cute thing happened recently. Many fans who have been following me since I released my second LP reached out to express their love for ‘ATLAS’. They mentioned that they can hear the musical growth I’ve undergone over the past three years. Those messages truly brightened my day, and I always enjoy spending time chatting with them.
6. Creative work in a studio or home environment, or interaction with a live audience? Which of these two options excites you most, and why?
TOMM: I find both options equally exciting, but in two very distinct ways. On one hand, I thoroughly enjoy producing my songs, experimenting with textures, and playing around with synthesizers. On the other hand, I have an equal passion for the process of simplifying and rearranging my songs for live performances. Currently, I’m performing with two of my friends: a drummer and a guitarist. It’s a fun challenge to rework tracks that originally incorporate seven or more instruments, adapting them for a setup with just bass, guitar, and drums. Also, playing bass while I sing is very gratifying. I love the energy that me and those guys create together on stage.
7. What’s your view on the role and function of music as political, cultural, spiritual, and/or social vehicles – and do you try and affront any of these themes in your work, or are you purely interested in music as an expression of technical artistry, personal narrative, and entertainment?
TOMM: I believe that nowadays it’s more important than ever. With so much going down all around the world, it shakes me to my core seeing hard-fought rights being taken away from people. I really do want to address these issues in my new releases. While I’ve attempted this in the past, my commentary has often come across as shallow and bland. This is why I hold a deep admiration for artists who skillfully incorporate powerful commentary into their songs. Nevertheless, I also resonate with Oscar Wilde’s idea of “Art for art’s sake.” Sometimes it’s good to make art without any purpose other than making art, and we shouldn’t feel guilty for doing that.
8. Do you think is it important for fans of your music to understand the real story and message driving each of your songs, or do you think everyone should be free to interpret your songs in their own personal way?
TOMM: As a major in visual arts, I like the idea of individuals forming their own unique opinions about a piece of art. However, I can’t deny that it would be quite fulfilling to see someone provide an analysis of my works that perfectly aligns with my original intent. I am obsessed with concept albums video analysis on YouTube lately, so that might be biased. In any case, art remains inherently subjective, so if my music resonates with you in a distinct manner compared to how it resonates with me, that’s entirely valid and part of the beauty of artistic interpretation.
9. What has been the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in your life or music career so far?
TOMM: I’m honestly not very good at handling criticism. Lately, I’ve been more active on social networks, which has been helping me improve in this regard. When you share your work online, it becomes visible to a wide audience, including people who might have more expertise than you do. Luckily, I’ve received very few hateful comments so far. Most of the feedback I’ve received on my work has been constructive, and people have been friendly in their delivery. Still, I can’t deny that it’s painful to see my mistakes pointed out, ouch!
10. On the contrary, what would you consider a successful, proud or significant point in your life or music career so far?
TOMM: This interview alone feels like a significant achievement for me. Sometimes, I doubt if I’m capable enough to achieve what I aspire to do. However, my recent releases have gotten a lot of support; my music has been played on radios all around the world! Seeing people genuinely enjoy what I create is always an incredible feeling. I remember the first time I felt like I had accomplished something worthwhile was when a friend of mine gave me a lift and I noticed they had my songs in their car playlist. Reflecting on how far I’ve come can be challenging, but I’ve reached a point where I feel like I can allow myself to do so and also smile a little. Just a little though – the journey ahead is still long
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