Against a backdrop of textured bass lines and delicate vocals, rising pop star Spencer Barnett fights for his lover’s affection on his new tune “eta”. The fun modern indie-pop tune showcases the singer’s captivating personality as it pours out throughout the song. Barnett continues to navigate the boundaries of art, music and fashion and interlocks them with his music.

His last single “Welcome To My Mind”, opened up the conversation of mental health and how keeping feelings and notions to yourself can be harmful. Having released previous EPs “I’m Fine” and “Reckless”, Barnett is all set to release his third consecutive EP later this year. We caught up with the rising pop star talking inspirations, the new tune and what’s next.

Check out the interview below…

Hi Spencer, how has lockdown been for you? How has it influenced you creatively?
In the beginning, I was really bummed about the lockdown. Life as we knew it came to a screeching halt and my tour was cancelled, but once I realized that I would have a lot of free time on my hands I started to dive into my next project. I’ve been in the studio nonstop for the last month, and more tapped in more than ever because I don’t have the regular distractions of life. I can put all my energy into the record.

Who are your influences and musical heroes?
I love the Gorillaz, Radiohead, Phoenix, Bon Iver, Childish Gambino, and MGMT – just to name a few. All of them created their own sonic lane and changed the game while doing it which I highly respect.

How did growing up in the melting pot of San Francisco affect your sound?
San Franciso has a really sick alt-rock indie scene which I had always admired growing up. I would occasionally sneak into shows with friends when I was younger and was captivated by the energy these bands had on stage. I definitely found my love for music in the bay.

How would you describe your genre in three words?
Alternative, psychedelic and pop.

Who would you love to collaborate with?
I’d love to do a song with Toro y Moi! I’ve been a fan of his projects for a while. I really like his melodies, they’re super weird and unique in the best way.

You’ve penned songs about mental health before with “Welcome To My Mind” – why is it important for you to raise awareness on such topics, especially as a man?
I’ve come to realise recently that most people share the same feelings and emotions but still feel alone in their problems. I guess “Welcome to My Mind,” is an attempt to convince myself to open up more as a person and an artist. By doing that, maybe I’ll feel less alone and others will too.

Congrats on your new track “eta” – what is it about and inspired by?
Thank you! Two days before “eta” was written I had my first Parisian clubbing experience and became instantly obsessed with the music they were playing. It was darker and very texturized, but still high fidelity. That inspired the sound of “eta” and the song was born a week later.

Your new lyric video has a very trip feel – what did you want to convey with it?
I want to transport people to a different place with this song and with the visuals. I want them to feel like they’re in that club in Paris, dancing and sweating and having an incredible time. I enlisted the help of my friend Bellamy Brewster to direct the visualizer and bring that vision to life.

What’s next for you? What are you excited about in 2020?
I’m planning on releasing more songs and a project by the fall! This third EP is the final chapter of the trilogy I started with “Reckless”, and I’m hoping to bring people into this world I’ve created. Also, excited to have some free time to get out of LA. I’m currently in Nashville on a road trip across the country which has been a total adventure. Getting to see different parts of the US for the first time at such a crucial time in the country’s history has been fascinating.