Monroe is a dynamic musical duo comprised of childhood friends Ellison Lowman and Seth Gates. Since their formation in 2017, they have been pushing the boundaries of modern pop with their eclectic sound and innovative approach to music. Born from a simple Instagram post, Monroe's journey began with a shared passion for music that has grown into a unique artistic vision. Influenced by a wide range of artists and experiences, Monroe continues to evolve, bringing fresh sounds and ideas to the music scene.
The Birth of Monroe: A Journey of Friendship and Innovation
Monroe's story began with an Instagram post from Ellison Lowman, asking, "Who wants to start a band?" This simple question led to the formation of Monroe, with Ellison on keyboard, vocals, and production and Seth Gates handling drums, guitar, and bass. The duo connected with producer and engineer Alejandro Quiles, and together they crafted their debut album, "I Loved a Drone." Initially inspired by popular bands like Tame Impala, Still Woozy, and Twin Peaks, Monroe has since expanded their creative influences to include visual artists, stories, and daily experiences. Their sound, once deeply rooted in pop melodies and catchy progressions, now transcends traditional labels, exploring themes of love, life, and culture.
Creative Process and Inspirations
Monroe's creative process is as diverse as their musical influences. The duo believes in staying open to different approaches, sometimes starting with a melody, bass line, or lyrical concept. This flexibility allows them to explore various musical paths and create something truly unique. Their inspirations range from contemporary artists like Charli XCX and Jpegmafia to unexpected discoveries such as Baltimore's Nourished by Time. "You can find inspiration in any music or art, whether you think it's 'good' or not," says Monroe. "There's always a lesson to be learned."
Collaborations and Future Aspirations
Monroe's collaborative spirit is a vital part of their creative journey. They've recently worked on a video for their song "UP MY SLEEVE" with Andrew Sheil of Subjective Records, embracing the world of film and directing. Looking ahead, they express a desire to work with artists like 2hollis and explore the hyperpop scene further. Their future plans include more live sessions, acoustic instruments, and branching into new musical territories, including brass instruments.
Embracing Live Performances
For Monroe, live performances are an opportunity to connect with their audience in a profound way. They enjoy interacting with fans, playing unreleased songs, and experiencing the joy of seeing their music resonate with listeners. A particularly memorable moment for them was performing their single "SACRÉ BLEU!" and witnessing the audience singing along to every word. "It felt amazing to be recognized in that way," they recall. This connection with fans fuels their passion and drives them to continue creating music that speaks to people's hearts.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
As Monroe continues to carve out their path in the music industry, they remain committed to their artistic vision and growth. With an upcoming album titled "TEENAGE CINEMA" in the mixing stages, the duo is excited to share new music with their fans. Featuring previous singles like "SACRÉ BLEU!", "BALLERINA", "BESTFRIEND", and "UP MY SLEEVE", along with six new tracks, Monroe's latest project promises to be a testament to their evolution as artists. Their message to aspiring musicians is clear: embrace creativity, stay open to new ideas, and always strive to create something unique. Monroe is not just a band; they are a movement, reshaping the sound of modern pop with every note.
