Share

cover art for Justin Pierre: Motion City Soundtrack, Drinking & Longevity

Bridge The Atlantic

Justin Pierre: Motion City Soundtrack, Drinking & Longevity

This week we’re excited to be joined by Justin Pierre out of Minnesota. Justin was the co-founder and lead vocalist of Motion City Soundtrack, and with them released 6 albums between 1997 and 2015. The band’s songs gave thoughtful perspectives on mental health and self-doubt, and they recently wrapped up a farewell tour...but hopefully it’s not the end! Justin’s known for his very personal lyrics, trademark sideburns and glasses, and he also hosts a podcast with his wife called Book Narcs. He also makes short films and directs music videos, with some of his credits including work for Limbeck and Sing It Loud. In this interview, Justin talks about Motion City Soundtrack's longevity, overcoming his drinking problem, and why he believes it's important to support other musicians. Enjoy! Highlights: - Justin shares what he believes the secret to Motion City Soundtrack’s longevity is - Justin shares how MCS dealt with some big issues in the band early on - We hear how understanding and respecting each other is a big part of keeping a band together - “Being in Motion City Soundtrack has been one of the best experiences of my life” - Justin Pierre - Justin shares how the live performance was the hardest part of being in MCS as he never felt good enough - “The only person who can really deal with a problem is that person” - Justin Pierre - Justin shares how his drinking affected the band, and how they managed to overcome it - We hear how Justin has decided to start listening to his gut feeling, instead of stuffing it away - “For years I’ve been stuffing my feelings down, and I’m just discovering them for the first time” - Justin Pierre - Justin shares how with sobriety, as an artist, he has different things to say - “I like music to hurt!” - Justin Pierre - We hear about Justin’s plans for a solo record, and how he wants to approach it - “Support the art you love” - Justin Pierre - Justin shares how he supports the artists he loves (and wins our hearts in the process) Guest Links: Bandcamp: https://justincourtneypierre.bandcamp.com Facebook: /justincourtneypierre Twitter: @jcpmcs / @motioncitymusic Instagram: @jcpmcs / @motioncitysoundtrack Sponsors: Chris Keaton @ Chris Keaton Presents Christine Infanger @ Thirty Roses Joe Settineri The Rock/Star Advocate Music Launch Hub Buck Naked Soap Company Wendy Donaldson --- For more episodes, visit http://bridge-the-atlantic.com Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/bridge_atlantic Subscribe on iTunes: http://bridge-the-atlantic.com/itunes Support us on Patreon: http://patreon.com/bridgetheatlantic

More episodes

View all episodes

  • Digital Detox: A Guide to Unplugging & Social Media Breaks | B-Sides

    10:24
    In this episode we talk about the importance of taking a break from social media and doing a digital detox, as a musician. A few of the topics we discuss include:The pros and cons of social mediaExamples of reasons you might take a break from social mediaHow to keep social media manageableAvoiding outrage cultureSponsors:Social SurgeElectric Kiwi
  • Are Singles the New Album? | B-Sides

    10:14
    In this episode, we ask the question - what matters more in today's music industry: quality or quantity? A few of the things we discuss include:The strategy of releasing singles rather than albums (especially when it comes to the Spotify algorithms)Whether focusing on quantity means that the quality suffersThe benefits of releasing cover songsSponsors:Social SurgeElectric Kiwi
  • Livestreaming 101: Connecting with Your Audience Online | B-Sides

    09:49
    In recent years, live streaming has grown in popularity as it allows artists to perform and connect with a worldwide audience. And with the current pandemic enforcing social distancing and quarantines all over the world, it's one of the few ways artists can currently perform for an audience.In this episode we talk about the benefits of live streaming, how to get started, promote, and monetize your streams.Sponsors:Social SurgeElectric Kiwi
  • Album Artwork: Does It Still Matter? | B-Sides

    09:59
    In this episode we're talking about album artwork, and whether it matters in the streaming age. We cover how album artwork plays a role when it comes to streaming; the resurgence of vinyl and the impact this has on the album artwork; and how to approach album artwork to cover all bases.Sponsors:Social SurgeElectric Kiwi
  • How to Regain the Trust of Your Fans After a Scandal | B-Sides

    10:01
    In this B-SIDES episode we're talking about the fallout from the downfall of Pledge Music, and what musicians can do next. Our discussion includes:How this has affected artistsHow this has affected fans who have contributed to campaignsWays that artists can help to rebuild trust with their audienceOther crowdfunding options for the futureSponsors:Social SurgeElectric Kiwi
  • Coronavirus: A Guide to Succeeding in the New Music Industry | B-Sides

    10:07
    It's hard to escape the fact that we're currently living in a pandemic. And we know that many musicians are unsure of what to do in these times. In this episode we discuss:How the coronavirus pandemic has affected musicians and everyone else who works in the music industryWhat musicians can do to stay productiveWhy self care is so importantThe role livestreaming can play in staying engaged with your audienceThe importance of entertainment at a time like thisSponsors:Social SurgeElectric Kiwi
  • Avoiding Burnout in the Music Industry | B-Sides

    11:34
    We’re back, baby! In this B-Sides episode, we talk about why we took a break, what burnout is, and how to avoid it, particularly when it comes to working in the music industry.Sponsors:Social Surge
  • Musicians: Should You Quit Your Day Job? | B-Sides

    10:08
    In this B-SIDES episode, we talk about balancing your passion with a paycheque and when it might be time to quit your day job. We look at the pros and cons, and also how to decide when it’s time to take the leap into music full time.
  • Does Your Band Need an Online Store? | B-Sides

    09:54
    In this B-SIDES episode we're looking at the options available for selling music and merch online, and whether you should have a store on your website.--Sponsors:Social Surge