Check out our interview with singer-songwriter and now viral TikToker vaultboy, who is now stepping out on his own to release his first single “everything sucks”. This song went viral in a 30 second TikTok that has amassed over 15 million views and 105k user generated videos, and has been streamed over 208k times and counting on Spotify.
vaultboy may be new to the scene, but is actually known for his work behind the scenes, including most recently having a hand in co-writing in the latest collaboration by Sarah Barrios and Eric Nam, “Have We Met Before”.
vaultboy’s latest creation, “everything sucks”, is reminiscent of the bedroom pop sound of Lauv and Jeremy Zucker. It is a facetiously upbeat pop song about the highs and lows of life. With its earworm chorus and relatable verses, vaultboy hopes that this track will take listeners on a euphoric journey and is a song they can turn to when they need a quick pick-me-up.
Follow vaultboy @vaultboymusic
Hi vaultboy, please tell us a little about you?
Hi! I’m from and currently live in Jacksonville, FL. I’ve been writing songs and playing piano since I was 8, and started playing guitar when I was 12. I started making music as vaultboy last year. I also love video games!
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Extroverted, moody, warm.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Energetic, emotional, and nostalgic.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
My parents and family in general were all very musical and were the inspiration to start for sure! There was always lots of guitar playing at family gatherings, and lots of support to follow my dreams in music.
Do you play any instruments?
I play guitar, bass, piano, and a little bit of drums.
Do you ever get nervous?
Yes, but usually only when I’m trying something new, then I can shake it.
Tell us about your new single “everything sucks”?
This song is like standing in a fire and saying “everything is fine”. It’s about looking on the bright side, even when everything sucks. 🙂
What’s the story behind this song?
The song started with my fans on TikTok asking me to write a happy song. I was thinking about it, and then somewhat sarcastically sang the words “everything sucks, just kidding” in the shower, and finished the entire first verse before I turned the water off. The TikTok blew up, and people were asking me to write the full song, so I finished it.
What is fun and rewarding about what you do?
Making a song in your bedroom when you’re in your feelings and having a person, who could be different than you in every single way, relate to the song and actually find the song helpful for whatever they’re going through. The fact that music has that power and that I can play a part in it makes it all worth it.
What are the five things you can’t live without?
My computer, my best pals, my guitar, Japanese curry, and video games.
What’s next for vaultboy in 2021?
If everything goes according to plan, a whole lot of new music!
What is your favorite song and why?
My favorite is a song called “Take It With Me” by Tom Waits. When I heard it for the first time I was on a plane and I just cried. It’s really special.
Now tell us about the huge TikTok success and what are you doing to keep it going and growing even more?
I wish I could tell you how I got to where I am! Since I started in late 2020, my focus has been on creating content that I would like if I saw on my fyp and it’s just blown my expectations out of the water. I try not to think too much about the growth and instead think about making good content and music that both my fans and new people will enjoy.
As a popular influencer you are followed by so many people. How do you feel about that pressure of always doing the right thing and encouraging others to follow their dreams?
I’ve been making music and following the dream of making music for a living since I was a kid. I genuinely believe that if you want something, whether you’re really great at it or need some work, the only way to get better is to try and fail over and over again and keep improving. I still feel like I’m there: constantly trying to improve.
Any loves other than music?
Video games for sure! Some of my favorites are The Witcher 3, the Fallout series, and Rocket League.
How’s a typical day in your life?
Wake up, avocado toast and a banana for breakfast. Then, a coffee with almond milk. I’ll spend the bulk of the day writing/working on music and making TikToks. I usually will eat dinner with my roommates/best friends. Then I’ll finish the night with some video games, and some tv before bed!
Name one your strengths?
Self-awareness
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
Either Ocean Avenue by Yellowcard or Strangers Like Me by Phil Collins definitely.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Avocado’s or sweet potatoes
And your favorite cheat food?
Cookie dough ice cream!!!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Hopefully, playing huge shows around the world and eating a lot of curry.
What do you think of Social Media?
It’s wonderful for a lot of things, but one of those things is definitely not mental health. I think using social media all the time and it not messing with you is hard, but I love having a way to connect with people all over the world!
Where can we follow you?
TikTok – @vaultboymusic
Instagram – @vaultboymusic
YouTube – vaultboy
Twitter – @vaultboymusic
Photo credit: Cody Pulliam
