Here are my answers your questions …
What's your name and where are you from
I play as Von Bieker (or Von Bieker and his Small-Tones when I’ve got the band with me). Von Bieker is actually just my last name, but sounds a little more mysterious than “Dave Von Bieker” and a lot more than just “Dave”.
How long have you been creating music
Von Bieker started in 2016 but I’ve been writing and recording music in some form since I was in high school. Which is a long time ;) Around 2015 I realized I couldn’t stop myself writing songs and playing them for other people even if I wanted to, and it was only going to get harder to make a go of it the longer I waited, so Von Bieker was born.
How would you classify your music
I’m more interested in songwriting than genre because I think that’s what ties an artist’s work together. I write songs that tell small stories and ask big questions. Sonically, they come out mostly as indie folk and what I like to call “bowtie rock”. I’m always striving for an emotional connection.
What's your primary inspiration either musical or not
I’m inspired by songwriters who put something deep in my soul into words. It’s like they shine a light on a part of me I don’t know how to name. I think that’s a beautiful gift. I’d put Sufjan Stevens, Glen Hansard, Anna Tivel, Dan Mangan, Hayden and Bruce Cockburn in that category. Musically I’m a huge Bahamas fan. I love his groove and his weirdo guitar tones. I’m big into interesting production so Pheobe Bridgers and Blake Mills and Sam Evian have got a lot of spins these past few years. I recently saw Stop Making Sense in the theatre and now I want to move like David Byrne! It feels bad not to mention Radiohead and Hiss Golden Messenger and Bonny Light Horseman, but I guess I’ve gotta stop somewhere.
What are your plans for the near future
I’ve been working on my second album, DUMB HOPE, for a year and a half. I kind of have to say this, but it really is the best work I’ve ever made. It’s in the final mixing stages now and will come out the middle of next year. For the first time I’m making vinyl and pre-orders are available on my website now.
Anything else you want your fans to know
I think I’ve got one of the best online fan communities and email newsletters around. It’s called Backstage and I use it to share really raw recordings, music recommendations, inspirations and the stories behind the songs. It’s the absolute best way to keep up with what I’m working on and support my work. That’s at backstage.vonbieker.com if any readers want to join us.
In hope,
Dave Von Bieker
Singer-Songwriter. Hopeful wrong-righter.
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