THE TAKE 5 SERIES
RIP YOUTH
For Australian song-writer James Maas, music is all about bringing people together. Whether it’s the moments we share or the way music can take you back to a particular time and place, it’s clear that he’s an artist who feels a close connection with the melodies he makes.
Initially conceived as a band, RIP Youth has been Maas’s long-term music project for several years. Their hits have included tracks like “Fake,” “It’s A Vibe,” and the group’s 2020 debut track “You Love.”
Over time, as Maas became more involved with every step of the production, RIP Youth evolved into a solo project. That being said, Maas is far from reluctant to collaborate with other artists, having worked with musicians such as Bombs Away, Reigan, Brian McFadden, Ranger, R3HAB, and many more.
In a way, his music is perfect for collaboration, as it beautifully rides the line between pop and EDM. It’s the kind of sound that can go in many different directions while retaining a sense of unity overall.
Here at Nexus radio, we love it when we get the chance to speak with incredible new artists like RIP Youth. So when we sat down with him, we asked him a few questions about his career, his process, and how he became the musician he is today. You can check out the take5 interview below or keep listening to Nexus Radio for more exclusive artist interviews.
Q: Before we dig in, what’s next for you?
Working on my EP and at some stage going out on the road with it.
Q: What does music mean to you?
Music is the fiber of human connectedness. Something that can get through to you sonically or lyrically on a number of different levels for whatever that ails you.
Q: Is there a song that makes you emotional?
Incubus “Drive” was played at a friend’s funeral. Funny how moments in time can bring you back to that exact moment for good or bad.
Q: How important are lyrics?
Very important to me. I don’t want you to have to be beaten over the head with message, but if you do want that I’m quite proud of the messages I try to disguise as best I can in my songs. If you need what it’s offering you’ll hear it.
Q: Which musical era would you visit if you could travel back in time?
I was always about the 80’s but now with a little space from the 90’s I think I’m converted.
Hey, you might want to check this out
Q: Who was your role model while growing up?
Michael Jackson
Q: What makes you feel unstoppable?
Finishing a song I love.
Q: What would be on the gag reel of your life?
Me stacking my pee wee motorbike when I was little and my mum not seeing me, running right over me and my bike on top of me. Not even noticing she’d run me over!
Q: How many licks does it take to get to the center of a tootsie roll pop?
Too many. I have sensitive teeth.
Q: Would you travel to space? (if yes, which planet if no, then why not)?
Mars because it’s my birthright. (That’s how you pronounce my last name)
