An Interview With Pop/R&B Newcomer, Sebastian Mikael!

With just a handful of years experience as a musician, Sebastian Mikael is already skilled at meshing elements of rock, R&B, pop and electronic music into one cohesive package. It’s all held together by his unique acoustic guitar playing.

His debut album, Speechless, was just released this week so there is definitely an energy and buzz around this talented young performer right now.

“I feel like my music truly has something to say,” he says. “When people hear my music, I want them to relate to it. The way my music makes me feel inside is usually the same way people feel when they hear it.”

Read below to learn all about what inspired this gentlemen to enter the music world and what it’s like having your own album out.

Can you describe how you’ve gotten to where you are in your career today?

Faith. It took a lot of work and good people around me that believed in me. I think passion, faith, persistence and patience was key.

When was the first moment that you realized that you wanted to be a entertainer/performer?

I realized I wanted to pursue music/entertainer when I moved to the U.S from Sweden.

You are from Sweden. How are the fans over there different then the ones here in the states?

There’s not much of a difference. Fans in Sweden just aren’t exposed to the various music genres like the states.

Who are some of your musical influences? Who are some of the newer artists who inspire you?

I have many.. Just to name a few.. Sade, Bob Marley, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, Usher, Cold Play.. Etc. as far as new artist.. Id say Jhene Aiko.

How are you using social media networks and sites such as Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram to interact with your fans?

It’s a blessing we have social media in today’s world. Whether it be a tweet back, direct message or a comment on Instagram, I love to respond and interact with the fans and take advantage of those tools to do so.

Can you tell me who have admired and then gotten to perform with recently? What was that experience like for you?

Recently, I got to share the stage with Musiq Soulchild that was really dope and I def admire his love for real soulful music.

What is your approach to songwriting? How do you capture the inspiration when it comes?

My Approach usually starts with a acoustic Guitar. I that with melodies first then I start coming up with concepts.

If you had the opportunity to work with any artist/band from the past, present or future, who would it be and why?

I would love to work with Marvin Gaye. He’s been one of my long time inspirations.

Why is this lifestyle (recording, traveling) one that you’re all willing to follow now?

It’s actually fun to travel and see new things. It’s a blessing to be able to take a passion and make a profit from it.

Your debut album, “Speechless” is about to come out. Tell me what that feels like?

It really is exciting. I feel honored and blessed to say that I have an album coming out. I’m speechless.

Is there anything in particular that you’d like people to take away from listening to your music?

I want to feel how real my music is. I try to stay away from trends in music. I try to stay as creative & inspiring as possible.

Do you have any advice for other young musicians just getting started?

My advice would be to never quit. If you have a dream and vision go after it. Stay humble and grateful for opportunities. Work hard, be patient and let God guide you!