Eric Leighton aka GREYFACES grew up in Detroit, Michigan. At 17 years old he left home and went on the road busking across the United States for close to 10 years. Now back in Detroit he spends everyday writing and recording new music.

Q: How has your relationship with music changed since you first started?

A: My relationship with music has always been to learn every facet of what it is to be a songwriter ie; writing, singing, storytelling, msuiciandhip..etc. However at the time of inception I had no real clue of how many aspects would challenge who I am as an individual..

Q: What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you early in your career?

A: I wish earlier on I would have dug into learning how to use a d.a w.  to craft songs.  In my experience my musical journey has been a lonely one. Rarely was I given any kind words to inspire me. when someone did say something nice I’ll hold on to those affirmations with all my soul. 

Q: How do you think your cultural or personal background shapes your music?

A: Being from Detroit there is a culture of music that is often cited but I wasn’t dancing in the streets to Aretha Franklin growing up. My personal experiences in life have been mostly plagued by tough and traumatic things if and when I do ever mention them or fictionally dark lyrics I often will accompany them with an upbeat and positive feel. sort of to mock them. 

Q: What direction do you see your music taking in the next few years?

A: I truly haven’t a clue and wouldn’t want to be that rigid in my expectations from songwriting. I try to always let the song write itself leaving behind as much of my own tastes as I can. 

Q: If you could collaborate with any artist—living or not—who would it be and why?

A: Dream collaborations go as followed:

Kim Gordon from sonic youth

Fiona Apple

Karen O from the yeah yeah yeahs

Kurt Cobain

Jeff Mangum from Nuetral Milk Hotel

Zack Comdon from Beirut

Robin Pecknold from fleet foxes

Connect with GREYFACES: https://push.fm/fl/greyfaces