I'm a Maker Because...
Miniviews series - No. 39 with Justin Ringle
You’ve landed on the thirty-ninth installment of the Maker Miniviews (mini, two question interviews) series. Learn more about these maker interviews and view a list of all Miniviews.
Justin Ringle fronts the indie folk band Horse Feathers. Originally from Lewiston, Idaho, Justin relocated to Portland to pursue music and now lives along the Oregon coast. Horse Feathers’ sound and stage presence often features a variety of rotating musicians, and Justin’s distinctive voice binds all of the evolving tones together.
Check out this interview with Justin Ringle.
What inspires you to keep making things?
"For me the desire to keep making music seems to stem from a type of cumulative evolution from what I’ve done before. It’s always a baton pass from record to record and song to song where I’m seeking to improve what I’ve done before, not so much in what solely ends up to be the finished product, but in finding all the new perspectives along the way.
The continually exciting part is experimenting with the process."
What one piece of advice would you give to other makers?
"My biggest suggestion would be to spend most of your time developing your own personal voice or style over any type of virtuosity in your craft. There are lots of people out there who can paint really well or play a ripping guitar solo, but in the end it always seems like the simplest, but most unique work is remembered.
I’m always asking the question when I look at a piece or hear a song: is this the work of a painter or an artist? Is this merely a musician or is this an honest-to-goodness songwriter? I say invest in yourself as an artist first and a craftsman second."
Photos by John Clark | Album Appreciation - Horse Feathers
Justin has been actively releasing music for over a decade and is a very talented songwriter, guitar player, record producer, and more. Horse Feathers’ latest release, Appreciation - on independent label Kill Rock Stars, introduces new musical dynamics, instrumentation, and an upbeat feel that’s easy to dance to.
As a fan myself, I’ve spent a lot of time over the years listening to Justin’s music. I’d be remiss if I did not thank him for the inspiration he’s provided me. I have fond musical memories of playing guitar at farmers markets, busking Horse Feathers songs like Curs in the Weeds with my fellow musician friends. Thank you, Justin.
"Spend most of your time developing your own personal voice or style over any type of virtuosity in your craft..." — Justin Ringle
Check out Horse Feathers Facebook Page, Instagram profile, and Horse Feathers music on Amazon.
Thank you all for reading this article, now get out there and make things!
