We had the good fortune of connecting with Andy Sydow and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Andy, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
That’s a question that I probably ask myself a lot, without even realizing it. It’s the reason behind a lot of my actions, and I bet that’s the case for most people. For me, I want to leave an incredible body of work behind when I go. I’d like to record tons of albums, produce lots of records, continue putting out more and more podcast episodes, record with an orchestra, score a motion picture, tour as a headlining act in sizable clubs… the list goes on and on. I think at the end of the day, I just want to have written lots of songs that impact people in a positive way.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I suppose partly due to the pandemic, I have more projects going on right now than I ever have. I’m most excited about all of the new music I’ve been recording and putting out. I have an EP called, “Time. Love. Everywhere.” that’s coming out on April 9. I also recently recorded a song that is a finalist in this years International Songwriting Competition. That same song was also a finalist in the Durango Songwriters Expo Song Competition last year. I think what sets me apart is how many hats I wear in the music industry. Although, that’s LOTS of people these days. Honestly, it’s really cool to see. Besides writing, recording and performing my own original music, I host a podcast called, Middle Class Rock Star where I chat with musicians and other people in the industry about music, life, and whatever else comes up. I also produce records for others artists. Recently, I’ve worked with Ian Mahan, JC Allen, and Lauren Frihauf & Ben Suyat. I don’t know if it’s ever, “easy.” I just take things as they come and do my best.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There’d be so much to do! After picking them up from the airport, I’d take them straight to Illegal Pete’s or Cheba Hut for lunch. After that, we’d hit some of the best local breweries like 3 Freaks, FlyteCo, Landlocked Ales, Great Frontier, and Brewability Lab. We’d be sure to hit jams and open mics at Lincoln Station Coffee Pizza Music and the Rusty Bucket. We’d hike around Green Mountain and enjoy the fresh mountain air. We’d go record shopping at Twist & Shout. We’d play some instruments at the Denver Folklore Center and Victor Guitar. We’d take in a show at Swallow Hill. I could go on and on. My guest would have a fun time.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Lots of folks… I’d like to shoutout my family and my local music community here in Denver. Through all the struggles and doubts, I have great family and great friends that always back me up.
Website: andysydow.com
Instagram: @andysydowband
Twitter: @andysydowmusic
Facebook: facebook.com/andysydowmusic
Youtube: youtube.com/andysydow
Other: patreon.com/andysydow
Image Credits
Photos Courtesy of: Seth Beamer