We had the good fortune of connecting with Adam Simons and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Adam, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I think when your “passion” becomes your job it can be hard to balance. I’ve found myself getting burnt out or uninspired because I’ve put too much pressure on the creative side of things – something that I used to just let come naturally. I think when you start your own business that is also something you enjoy – it’s important to not overwhelm yourself. Breaking big goals into small, daily steps and lists has helped me overcome that feeling of helplessness when facing the road to where you want to be. You have to take time for your own health and wellness, along with pursuing a career. One cannot exist without the other!
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As Wanderer my goal is to create music that is a soundtrack for people’s lives. Some of my favorite times have been on long drives or late nights in the car listening to my favorite songs with friends. If I can help create that for other people, I think that is success for me. I am hugely inspired by the sounds of music from the 1980s, and try to blend that with a modern twist in my music. I’ve started this solo project from the ground up as a one-man operation, and had to take on the many roles around an artist myself – manager, agent, publicist, graphic designer, etc. While this was challenging and involved many long nights of work, it allowed me to fully curate my vision for what I was putting out, and be involved every step of the way. With Wanderer, my hands are in every aspect of the project – from visuals to each instrument and musical layer that you hear.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love downtown Phoenix and live nearby, so I would say a trip to that area is a must. There are so many amazing new spots that have popped up in the last couple years. AZ Wilderness Brewery is a favorite of mine, as well as Crescent Ballroom – not only for the live music, but their food as well. Provision coffee in Arcadia is one of my favorite coffee joints in the valley, and I would insist upon a visit or two there for their exceptional and unique lattes. As for a night out, I love Buck & Rider for their amazing seafood bar and cocktails. A perfect spot for happy hour. I also love all asian food, so Clever Koi would be on the list as well! It’s so hard to choose from the many amazing businesses we have here in Phoenix, but I think overall a trip to Downtown & Uptown Phoenix would be my pick for anyone visiting.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
As cliche as it may sound – I want to thank my parents for always supporting me in any decision I’ve made. When after college I decided to pursue music full time and work for myself, they were nothing but loving and supportive of my choice. Knowing that they will be proud of me for pursuing what I’m passionate about has helped me keep going during some of the hardest times, and let me be free to take risks in life.
Instagram: instagram.com/wanderersongs
Twitter: twitter.com/wandererband
Facebook: Facebook.com/wanderersongs
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXNnIg7IMez531Wqo_rEsGw