Not all musicians and bands coming out these days started in a garage or a basement, and not all are the same old, run of the mill rock bands who still think Zeppelin is touring. And sometimes, you have to travel outside of Chicago to find new inspiration. That is exactly what we did, and, in Detroit, Michigan, more than just Marshall Mathers emerges. Joe Hertler and the Rainbow Seekers, and some fun, danceable music will help you let loose and keep your worries away. With more knowledge and musical background than your normal artist these days, Joe reveals more of his past in music and what still inspires him today. And until the summer sun comes out, we are sure that Joe will keep you inspired through the cold winter snow. Read on below for our exclusive interview with Joe!

When and how did you get your start in music?
I was a prospective college music student, but when I bombed an audition and didn’t get into the orchestra I wanted - I had I big ol ego trip and dropped that idea entirely. Amidst my depression, I bought a guitar and some recording gear with graduation money in 2008. I girl I had a crush on at the time convinced me to come play at an open mic she ran at a local coffee shop. I was ridiculously nervous and quite frankly, I was really bad - but you grow with every performance and song you write. And now I’m here having the time of my life making art with my best friends!
You have a pretty unique name. How did you come up with it?
There is an amazing fusion record called “Rainbow Seeker” by the legendary Joe Sample. Me and band - we loved this record and decided to shamelessly steal the name. Good artists copy. Great artists steal… Just kidding - but like I said, we fell in love with the music and wanted to honor and harbor those vibes, thus resulting in the duration of the Rainbow Seekers.
How long have you been doing music?
I started writing songs when I was about 18 or 19, but I played stand up bass, piano, and little bit of cello in for all of my academic life!
Who would you say your inspirations are?
I love psychology, religion, and philosophy. I also read a lot. Honestly, so much of what I write about is directly influenced by what I’m studying in school. I’m at a very existential time in my life, so the questions and inspirations are abundant. Really though, my songs are an account of my current and cumulative being. There’s external stimulation, well… everywhere. Inspiration can come from anywhere at anytime!
But mainly I’m inspired by women, women, and w**d ;)
I listed to lil wayne when I really need help… just kidding.
How would you describe your sounds?
Mildly pretentious, folk rooted post intellectual meta soul with a tinge of rock and roll…Pitchfork and Hipster Runoff say it’s the new alt sound ;)
What one song would you say someone would have to hear, and why?
Sam Cooke, “Change is Gonna Come”. It’s simply a brilliant, honest, and powerful piece of art that sung by one of America’s greatest vocalists. It will never, ever get old for me.
You say you like dance as much as music; would you say one influences the other?
My first “rave” was at the Government nightclub in Toronto. I was 18 at the time and I was convinced by friend to come listen to “techno” music. It was new years eve and I saw Badboy Bill… There were people from all walks of life. Skin color, sexual orientation, the way you dressed, who your friends are… it didn’t matter who you were, because everyone there was there to dance, have a good time, and enjoy some great music. The whole experience was intoxicating and I’ve been a closet rave kid ever since. Most of my music friends are DJ’s and producers - and about 70% of my musical tasted are that of Electronic Dance Music (funk, tech house, electro, and various forms of bass music are my favorites). Creatively, they’re entirely separate entities. Songwriting is much harder than DJing/producing - and not it terms of skill or technical know how, but rather the emotive curation that songwriting provides. You really have to dig deep to write a song and inspiration can be so fleeting. DJing and producing require knowledge of songs, good samples, compositional knowhow, and a solid sense of groove. DJing is simply fun to me… a good times sort of high, where performing my own songs offers a much deeper, emotional high.
What’s your favorite place to perform, and why?
Crofoot Ballroom in Pontaic. It has amazing sound, great people working the venue and a lovely, clean atmosphere.
Do you have an upcoming shows or tours planned?
There are quite a few in the works. Check out our facebook page for a listing of local Michigan shows!
Where can we find your music?
* * * * *
Thank you to Joe Hertler and Irving Ronk for the photos.
For more on Joe Hertler and for music and tour dates, please see: facebook.com/joehertlermusic.
For more on Hound Comics, go to: houndcomics.com.