Yarisho started his music journey only a couple of years ago. He is from Kyiv, Ukraine. He’s released three singles and rocked the live performances. His stage name, takes account of the search for peace in this life’s cacophony while also hinting at Slavic mythology.
In this chat, Yarisho talks about his life. He’s self-taught, drawing inspiration from the small things of life, his development follows his music: from being addicted to TV-station performers, he springs onto the stage at a Kyiv festival.
All is feeling in his music, leading you into a realm of emotions. James Blake and Joji are the artists that have influenced Yarisho’s music, which has changed as he’s grown.
But outside music, he plunges into graphic design and marketing. Looking back at the hard places in his journey, he’s used failures as a kick to get even stronger.
Hinting at an upcoming album and keeping collabs hush-hush, Yarisho shares a heartfelt message with fans: stay true, don’t forget the simple pleasures of life and pursue your dreams. Every song Yarisho spins a link and the sound of music isn’t something that we just hear, it can also be felt in our lives.
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What is your stage name
My stage name is Yarisho.
Is there a story behind your stage name?
I can’t say that I have a specific story behind my stage name, but if we are speaking about the meaning, it contains different senses. The main is “a place where you can find your calm”. Also it is consonant with Yarylo, slavic God of spring and vitality.
Where do you find inspiration?
Life inspires me pretty much. Although it sounds trite, you should definitely romanticize your daily life to survive in this crazy world. Any relationships, situations, people or nature can be the impetus for your art. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, inspiration in the same.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
When I was little, I was always fascinated by the artists on TV. The way they look and act on the stage. Then I became addicted to vocal shows and dreamed that one day I’ll definitely burst into the music world.
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
I am a guy from a regular family. My parents never played music, but they like to listen to it.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
Me, myself and I [laughs]. I couldn’t say that I have someone who spurred me on the music path, it was my own decision.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play?
I’m self-taught with no formal music training. I was learning from scratch, mainly through trial and error, and devoted all of my time to it.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform?
My first concert (if we can call it that) was at a Kyiv festival timed to the Christmas holidays. I remember it was a very cold day, kids and their parents danced below the stage. I was very worried but it was over in a flash.
How could you describe your music?
I can sum it up in three words: emotional, sensual, engaging.
Describe your creative process.
Usually I begin with a short hook melody, which could suddenly come to me. Then I start to build composition around it, experimenting with the sound, taking the small steps toward the final version. And the last step is lyrics. I think I always keep in my mind what this song should be about, but the whole work with text leaves for last.
What is your main inspiration?
Well, like I said, this is life – love, my close and music itself. I really like to go to live performances, theaters and festivals. Cultural life inspires me as well.
What musician do you admire most and why?
James Blake, Sampha, Joji, Unknown Mortal Orchestra – their vision of music is close to my heart.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career?
Sure, and it’s a common thing for young artists. At first I used to try myself in classical pop – because of music I listened to at that time. After a long break in my musical path, searching for a fresh sound and senses, I presented a new single “Take it slow”, which became the first swallow of the upcoming album.
Electronic sound and new style made this song directly opposed to what I has done before. Artist worldview changes and, as a result, music changes too. Maybe I’ve become a more adulty adult.
Who do you see as your main competitor?
Actually I don’t like the idea of competition at all. We are all fighting our own battle, where the main competitor is you itself. I prefer to say I have people and artists I look up to, but I don’t want to compare myself with someone.
What are your interests outside of music?
Graphic design and marketing, I work in this area.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing?
It would definitely be something connected with Graphic design. Love it.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music?
Do not give up after the first failure, as it should be seen as a further step to improve your skills. I am a very sensitive and emotional person like most artists, that’s why every mistake makes me sad. No one will argue that we all want everything at once, but, unfortunately, it does not work this way.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
That’s a difficult question, because there are many different aspects. I will not say anything new – fair compensation, more honesty, less predatory.
What are your plans for the coming months?
I’m working on my new album consisting of 9 songs — the release is scheduled for next year. Although I plan to shoot a video.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans
I would like to keep it a secret. Let it be a great surprise for people who listen to my music.
What message would you like to give to your fans?
Never be afraid of being yourself, define your life goal which would make the greatest sense just for you and go ahead. Be patient and love what you do, avoid people who say you’ll never succeed. Show gratitude for those who are kind to you and find your inspiration in simple things.
