Mar 27, 2019
My conversation this week is with drummer, multi instrumentalist, activist and all around inspirational guy Chris St Hillaire. After more than a decade with his band the London Souls, Chris is now touring with Sinkane. Chris is also a founding member of the Sound Mind Collective who's "aim is to to connect independent musicians and artists with our local communities to encourage meaningful positive growth through education, social justice advocacy and creativity." Chris insight into the connecting the worlds of activism and music is inspiring and so important
Intro music: 'Do you?' from DB3 album 'Firebrand'
Episode interludes are taken from: Chris St. Hillaire "Strangers" and "Road March", London Souls "Steady Are You Ready" and Sinkane "Everybody"
In this conversation:
Sound Mind Collective
Operating in a conscious way
SMC and community based issues beyond music ie policing- mentorship to incarcerated kids
Musician business workshops
Lack of organizing in younger musicians
Activism on tour and linking with local communities
Eating healthy on a budget while on tour
Journey to plant-based diet
Ethical treatment of animals
Growing up in Trinidad
Standard American Diet= SAD
Food=Culture
Life on the road forcing the issue with regards to health- That being the catalyst for change
Plant-based diet+ change in playing, life on tour, approach and mental clarity/focus
Daily schedule- Juice bar in the morning
Show preparation- Positive mindstate above all
Developing an activist mentality in musicians
Interconnectedness of issues
London Souls
Sinkane
Importance of valuing relationships in building a music career
Goals: long term vs short term
Leave room for your goals to evolve