After the past couple years, no one can confidently deny the influence TikTok has on the music industry. Between the way listeners discover music to new techniques labels use to find and sign artists, TikTok has undoubtedly had the biggest impact during the pandemic.
One artist that proves this is Seattle producer-songwriter Powell Aguirre, better known as Surf Mesa. Though the name may not necessarily ring a bell, it’s almost a guarantee that you’ve heard his viral single, “ily (i love you baby).” His chill pop, EDM-leaning sound blends synths with organic elements creating a fresh, passionate atmosphere.
This track, now RIAA certified Platinum, pulls the chorus from Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” and turns it into a dreamy synth-scape track featuring vocals from Emilee Flood. While algorithms may be pretty specific to a person’s interests, this song has most definitely come across your feed in one way or another, whether on TikTok, Instagram, or elsewhere. Though the track was originally released in 2019, it started to gain popularity on the internet when it was re-released through UMG/Astralwerks in 2020.
Stream “ily (i love you baby)” by Surf Mesa
As this single took off, Surf Mesa spent 2020 crafting more “feel good” music from his bedroom, where it all started in 3rd grade. The follow-up to his hit single, “Somewhere” featuring Gus Dapperton, continued to propel the young artist forward, garnering millions of fans around the world.
The now LA-based artist has since collaborated with Madison Beer, Bipolar Sunshine, and more on original tracks. Surf has also remixed tracks from industry-leading artists including Marshmello and Halsey on “Be Kind,” as well as Shawn Mendes’ “Wonder.” His chill-pop, EDM-leaning aesthetic proves refreshing for every track he’s graced thus far.
Most recently, Surf Mesa teamed up with singer-songwriter FLETCHER as well as St. Louis artist Josh Golden on “Another Life.” This third single of 2021 for the rising artist stays consistent with his light and catchy sound, but with a more intimate, yet inspiring approach. The PNW artist’s aim is to help listeners “feel better about their day” and each release proves to do just that, no matter what your day may throw at you.
Surf Mesa x Respect My Region Exclusive Interview
Respect My Region had the opportunity to ask the rapidly-rising artist some questions about his viral music, Washington roots, his Suwannee Hulaween experience (where we just witnessed his impressive Halloween set), and more. Read further to learn more.
Photo Credit: Danielle Degrasse-Alston
RMR: How do you feel growing up near Seattle influenced your sound and/or career?
Surf Mesa: Growing up in Seattle definitely pushed me to work on music. It rains most of the year, so when I was inside, I would just sit down and either play video games or focus on making music. Growing up, I looked up to all of the artists who came out of Washington, such as Jimi Hendrix and Kurt Cobain. I grew up listening to their music in Seattle.
RMR: How does living in Los Angeles impact your sound and career?
Surf Mesa: Living in LA has allowed me to work on music with so many cool people. I learn so much from being in the studio with artists I admire and going to cool events.
RMR: When you first started making music, what was it like? Did it seem to come naturally to you, or was it a struggle?
Surf Mesa: I had always been into music. My family is a big music family and it just came naturally to me. I really got into producing music when I was in high school and broke my leg. During that time, I stayed in bed recovering for months and really learned how to use FL Studio. I created my first EP in my bedroom.
RMR: What is the process like when collaborating with other artists?
Surf Mesa: The process always changes when collaborating with other artists. We just all come up with ideas and a song can really start from anywhere. I usually start with chords or melodies, but it’s interesting to see where other artists start from and what happens when we put all of our strengths together.
Photo Credit: Joe Mortimer
RMR: How do you stay hopeful in hard times?
Surf Mesa: I just keep looking forward to my shows. That really makes me the happiest, just being in front of all my fans and having a blast playing.
RMR: What is your favorite way to connect with your fans?
Surf Mesa: Like I mentioned above, for sure at my shows. It’s really awesome to see people singing my lyrics and just having a good time when I’m playing.
RMR: How does it feel to have your song “ily (i love you baby)” literally scattered all across the internet? Do you come across a lot of videos that use it?
Surf Mesa: It’s kinda crazy!! I’ll just be scrolling on TikTok or Instagram and hear my song. People find such creative uses for it and it’s awesome to see people still loving it!
RMR: Are there any specific videos or trends that you love to see it specifically used for?
Surf Mesa: Honestly, it’s really cool to see the variety of videos that people use it for. I remember Jason Derulo used it in the background of him cooking brownies. I thought that was pretty cool!
RMR: When you perform at a music festival, what leads up to your set? What do you do after?
Surf Mesa: Leading up to my set at a festival I’m usually going through my list and changing out music to what I’m feeling like. After I play, I usually hang around and watch other people’s sets and explore the festival grounds. I haven’t been to too many festivals, so it’s been really cool just walking around and taking it all in.
RMR: Tell us about some of the upcoming festivals you’re performing at soon, and which you’re most excited for!
Surf Mesa: I’m so excited to be opening for Alan Walker at the Echostage in DC, and then I’m also playing a really cool show called Lights All Night at the Armory in Minneapolis on December 30th. Lots of cool stuff is coming in 2022 as well.
RMR: How was your experience at Suwannee Hulaween? Did you dress up? Any specific, memorable moments worth sharing?
Surf Mesa: Suwannee Hulaween was awesome! I had a really great time and it was such a cool festival. I did dress up as an aerobics instructor. Also, I teamed up with Fandiem at Hulaween and part of that collab allowed a fan to come and join me on the stage and watch my set which was really fun!
RMR: Lastly, if you could be reincarnated into any animal, what would it be and why?
Surf Mesa: Hmmm, probably a tiger. That would be cool!
Connect with Surf Mesa
Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | Facebook
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