Tempo Talks: A Conversation with Rob Giles

THE RELEASE

Rob Giles is an versatile artist who has achieved success in the music, film and television industries. He has won a Grammy award for his work, as a singer songwriter, producer and multi instrumentalist. In addition to his accomplishments Giles has also ventured into screenwriting. Sold two spec scripts to Warner Bros. Television. The CW network developed two of his shows called "The Fare" and "Near Beth Experience" while another project titled "Conspiracy/ O+" found a home at Bad Robot. Currently Giles is involved in the creation of a stage alongside Willie Williams from U2 and Tony Award winning director Michael Arden. He is also making waves with his series called "The F?ck," which is currently being developed at CBS Studios. Giles studied at Berklee College of Music, where his compositions have become part of songwriting classes showcasing his talent as a songwriter. Throughout his career he has collaborated with artists such as Joe Cocker, Sara Ramirez and Andy Summers from The Police. In addition to his pursuits Giles is deeply committed to being a father to his three daughters. He is also on the path, towards becoming a marriage and family therapist (LMFT) reflecting his dedication to helping others in their lives.

Rob Giles, who was previously believed to have said goodbye to the music world has pleasantly surprised everyone with his release titled "Meditation Drive Thru." This unexpected and deeply personal musical venture showcases Robs resilience and determination. However a heartfelt request from a friend sparked a renewed passion within him leading him on a journey of creating this 11 track album. "Meditation Drive Thru" serves as a testament to the power of bouncing from lifes challenges and embracing them as opportunities for growth. It beautifully captures the essence of rebuilding when faced with adversity and rediscovering the joy of singing when ones voice seems lost. Remarkably Robs voice once considered compromised now resonates powerfully more than before; it is truly a gift of clarity both for himself and his listeners. The album encapsulates a process of creation that exudes an air of ease, comfort and an unyielding return to the joy of making music. In Robs words this experience brought healing and an undeniable sense of self discovery—a triumphant homecoming, for an artist he once thought he had bid farewell to.

THE INTERVIEW

If you had to create a Mount Rushmore of inspiration, what four individuals molded the artist you are today?

Man, that would be an ugly mountain.  Let’s see how ugly we can get. I’d have to leave off Prince and Joni Mitchell, cuz they’re pretty. And I can’t put Shania, cuz she’s the prettiest. I could add Shania’s ex-husband and genius producer, Mutt Lange, but no one knows what he even looks like. Let’s go full ugly and put the glorious faces of Thom Yorke, Lyle Lovett, Randy Newman and Tom Waits.  No one would visit this site, ever. 

Throughout the production of your new album/EP, were there specific challenges or breakthrough moments that had a profound influence on the overall direction and cohesion of the project?

The big breakthrough came at the beginning, when Rich Jacques (producer) and I chose the songs we thought would make up the album. We had totally different songs, literally and completely different choices, and that forced us to see a third option, which is what became the album. And those rules or guidelines were “is it honest”, “is it positive or inspired/inspiring?”, and Rich kept saying “not one but you could do this song/record…” 

Can you offer insights into the collaborative dynamics that shaped your latest album, shedding light on the contributions from producers, co-writers, engineers, or featured artists and how their involvement impacted the final body of work?

It was pretty much all me and Rich Jacques, he played producer and I played artist most of the time. I think I probably played most of the instruments, and he fiddled here and there with synths and sounds. I had some friends over to sing some BGVs, but they were mostly re recorded by me cuz my producer told me to. We had some loops from a great drummer.

Considering the entirety of your album, what lasting impact or impression do you hope the collection of songs will leave on listeners, both individually and as a cohesive musical journey?

I’m pretty much a nobody, and I can’t imagine anyone listening to this in ten years, but if they DID, I would hope it was because it enlightened their best self to become more of who they are, and to let go of dumb shit in a way that feels good to listen to and they want to go back that place/feeling again. ‏

As you look forward, how does the release of this album/EP set the stage for your future projects, and are there any subtle hints or clues you can share about the evolving musical direction you plan to explore in the coming months?

Oh man, I am in grad school to become a therapist and coach, and I have a television series in development that will shoot in the new year, so another album? Maybe one day! If it excites me and makes me scared, I’ll do it, hopefully with Rich Jacques again, cuz he’s the best.

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