Music From the Studio
Ian Felton is a multifaceted artist whose life and work are deeply rooted in the lush landscapes of Appalachia. Ian's musical journey began alongside his brother Chris in their band Tungsten. Their unique blend of hillbilly punk rock captured hearts with the hit song "I Love Jello," a project sadly lost to history due to a stolen recording.
Ian transitioned from his early punk rock days to a metal cover band called Snack during high school. His musical exploration continued in college with the southern rock band Barefeet and Company. Advancing his career, Ian played bass and sang for the hip hop band 2nd Naycha, touring the East Coast and recording with Grammy-nominated producer David Ivory in Philadelphia. Alongside his band activities, Ian has composed and recorded numerous songs independently, showcasing his versatility and deep connection to his craft.
Reflective of his INFJ personality, Ian's work is imbued with a sense of deep reflection and empathy. His approach to life and art is influenced by his upbringing in rural West Virginia, where he learned to listen deeply and empathize with the world around him.
2024
Creating "Nowhere Fast" was a deeply personal and transformative experience for me. I wrote this song during a pivotal time in my life when I was striking out on my own, away from everything familiar. It was a period of great change, full of uncertainty and introspection. The song became a way for me to remind myself not to give up, even when the path seemed unclear and the journey arduous.
The process began with the melody, inspired by the rustic, winding roads of the West Virginia mountains, which I often traveled. The lyrics followed, reflecting my inner struggle and determination. I wanted the song to capture the essence of a solitary journey, both physical and emotional, highlighting the challenges and the perseverance needed to continue moving forward. The twilight hues of the sky, blending from purple to orange, symbolize the hope and promise of a new day, even when the night feels long.
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2024
"Who Do You Pray To?" is a poignant and introspective ballad that delves into the fleeting nature of life and the struggle to find stability amidst chaos. The song opens with the powerful imagery of a hurricane, representing the uncontrollable and ever-changing moments that define our existence. The lyrics capture the universal desire to find strength, connection, and purpose, even when faced with the harsh reality of isolation and impermanence.
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As the song progresses, it moves into the calm center of the heart, where the protagonist grapples with the illusions of time, space, and self. The chorus, repeated with a haunting resonance, questions the source of comfort and guidance in times of distress and uncertainty. The repeated inquiry, "Who do you pray to?" echoes the search for meaning and solace in a world where tragedy and joy are inextricably linked.
2024
"The Science of You" is a contemplative exploration of a spiritual journey intertwined with the quest for self-discovery and understanding the soul. The song delves into the sacred resonance of the heart and the truths hidden beneath self-deception. It reflects a yearning to uncover deeper layers of existence and the mysteries lying beneath the surface, embodying the interplay between spiritual awakening and personal transformation.
The repeated refrain "the science of you" symbolizes the profound, almost mystical investigation into the essence of human existence and the profound effect it has on the narrator. This journey is marked by seeking enlightenment, grappling with unanswered questions, and embracing the light and shadows of the soul’s path, ultimately revealing a profound connection that transcends mere understanding.
2024
"Kintsugi" is a deeply emotive track that explores the poignant theme of finding beauty in brokenness, inspired by the Japanese art of the same name. Through its stirring lyrics, the song delves into the complexity of human emotions, highlighting the intertwining of joy and pain, loss and love. The poetic imagery paints a picture of life's fleeting moments, the fear of loss, and the universal struggle we all face. With its rich, resonant tones and compelling narrative, "Kintsugi" encourages listeners to embrace their imperfections and find strength in the scars that each of us carries. This song is a testament to resilience, the transformative power of healing, and the unexpected beauty that emerges when we repair what has been broken.
2022
"Life is Sweet" is a poignant and evocative track that captures the fleeting magic of an unexpected encounter. With its ethereal melodies and heartfelt lyrics, the song delves into the intensity of a moment shared between strangers, where time seems to stand still and emotions run deep. The singer's voice conveys a mix of vulnerability and awe, as they describe the rapid and overwhelming connection that makes the heart skip a beat and leaves them breathless.
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The chorus, with its simple yet powerful repetition of "Life is sweet," serves as a tender reminder of the beauty found in these ephemeral connections. The song weaves a narrative of longing and serendipity, with imagery of frozen moments and celestial forces pulling two souls together. As the track progresses, it builds to a crescendo of emotion, reflecting the transformative power of these brief, intense experiences that remind us to cherish every sweet moment life offers.
