The Driver Era: Rocky & Ross Lynch Photoshoot & Interview
The Driver Era: Rocky & Ross Lynch Photoshoot & Interview
Photographer: Eddie Blagbrough @eddieblagbrough
Stylist: Thomas Bull @thomasbullstylist
Groomer: Josh Knight @knightjosh at Caren @carenagency using Wavy for Hair and Haeckels for skin
Photographed on location at The Hoxton Hotel Southwark
Way back when in 2020, we wrote “The Driver Era isn’t just a band however, able to transcend genres, each release is an experience” now four years later the same sentiment rings true. Their recently released documentary and film provided a comprehensive view into the inner workings of The Driver Era. Their shows electric and fandom engrossed, the duo clearly share a connection with their listeners far greater than any passing pop craze.
With their latest single ‘Get Off My Phone’ already garnering high praise and a South America tour on the horizon, we caught up with the duo to find out more about their process, their listeners and of course, their FAULTs.
FAULT Magazine: What would you say is the biggest change to your creative process on this new single compared to your previous releases?
Ross Lynch: Every song manifests differently. This one started with the concept. We don’t have a “go-to” system or process for creation. We like to flow and see what happens.
FAULT Magazine: What is the inspiration behind the track?
Ross Lynch: This track is about modern-day breakups and how your phone makes the experience all the more challenging by bringing up memories that would probably be better avoided for the sake of moving on.
The Driver Era’s New Single ‘Get Off My Phone’ is OUT NOW
FAULT Magazine: From your documentary, it’s clear the community around your music is extremely special, do you ever struggle with the responsibility of having such a dedicated fan base?
Ross Lynch: Our fans are the greatest. We love them and are eternally grateful for their support. But no, I don’t. People come and go regardless, and ultimately Ima do me. If you dig it, that’s tight. Thank you.
FAULT Magazine: Do you ever worry that tracks, where you are more experimental, might be counter to what your fan base hopes for from your music?
Ross Lynch: Experimenting is a critical part of being an artist. It’s satisfying when someone likes what you make, and it’s also satisfying when you make something that you feel like has never been made before. I’m always practising giving fewer fucks. Especially towards people’s opinions.
FAULT Magazine: When you look back on your creative journey, what’s been the most challenging musical hurdle to overcome?
Ross Lynch: Finishing songs. We have probably 1,000 songs on hard drives. The inception process is a little too enticing.
FAULT Magazine: The live experience has always been of note when discussing your artistry, how did it feel to finally capture and release on your first live album, and could you describe the feeling of your shows from your side of the stage?
Ross Lynch: It was a good time. Our live concert at the Greek concert movie was a celebration, for us, for our fans. The end of a chapter. It was a special show. A one of a kind show for us, like we’ve never done before. It depends on what’s happening in life. Most of the time we’re having a ton of fun. We love playing music and our fans are electric to play for. Sometimes we’ll be fed up – there could be technical difficulties, or someone pissed us off…. in that case, we like to harness what’s happening and use it. If so, the guitar solos will be extra spicy.
FAULT Magazine: You’re heading out to South America soon, what are you most excited about for this upcoming tour?
Ross Lynch: Exploring. Creating. Laughing. Playing live. Writing songs. Delicious meals. Going out dancing. Lollapalooza! Watching other bands. Getting inspired. Meeting cool people. etc.
FAULT Magazine: Do you take time to stop and reflect on your musical journey or can it at times pass by in a blur?
Ross Lynch: It’s a wonderful blur. As is life… Occasionally I’ll go back for a listen and be pleasantly reminded how good the music is, and how much we’ve grown.
FAULT Magazine: Last songs you heard that made you cry?
Ross Lynch: “You Are So Beautiful” by Joe Cocker.
FAULT Magazine: What is your FAULT?
Ross Lynch: I DON’T HAVE ONE I’M AWESOME THANKS BYE