Exclusive Interview: Arden Jones Discusses His New EP and Showing Off Another Side of His Versatility

Arden Jones is one of the most exciting new artists to emerge in the past decade. His musicianship and lyrics have connected with millions of listeners around the world, and he’s just getting started!

This year, he gave fans a taste of what’s ahead with his new EP, age tape 2, showing off another side of his versatility.

Pop Culturalist was lucky enough with Arden about his transition from film to music, age tape 2, and more!

PC: You were pursuing a career in film before you made the transition into music. What went into the decision to make that pivot?
Arden: I went to school for film. It was my favorite thing to do in high school. Throughout all of middle school, high school, and college, I was also making music. I was just waiting for the right time to lean fully into it. In January 2021, everything lined up and I was able to move up to LA.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Arden: I could list a ton of things that have an influence on my career, but I think the biggest is other artists. It’s been awesome seeing people with insane talent and experience in the studio and learning from them.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your young career. When you look back, is there a moment that stands out?
Arden: I’m so grateful for everything over the past year and a half. It’s hard to pick a moment that stands out. I think the messages I get every single day from people who enjoy my music are my favorite part.

PC: What do you hope audiences take away when they listen to your music?
Arden: When people listen to my music, I hope they can relate to some of the lyrics and feel something new.

PC: Tell us about age tape 2 and the inspiration behind the three-track project.
Arden: Age tape 2 was definitely different…I wanted to show people some diversity while keeping my sound as the main focus. I think there are so many great genres of music out there and I wanted to do what I could to blend some. All three songs were made in rooms with talented producers, so it was great having a third party in the making of this tape.

PC: If you had to select one song off of age tape 2 that best encompasses who you are as an artist, which would it be and why?
Arden: I think “the other side” was the song that represented me as an artist. That song came naturally and was just fun to make all around, so I think those are the most organic.

PC: You’re gearing up for a massive 2022. What can fans expect from you this year?
Arden: They can expect three brand new bangin’ songs at the top of every month of 2022.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Arden: Doja Cat.

PC: First album you bought?
Arden: American Idiot–Green Day.

PC: First concert you attended?
Arden: The Avett Brothers.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Arden: 2014 Forest Hills Drive by J. Cole because it showed me an alternative sound in hip hop.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Arden: The Greek Theatre in Berkeley, CA because it’s near my hometown and that’s where I saw my first concert.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Arden: My ukulele.

To keep up with Arden, follow him on Instagram, Spotify, and Apple Music. Pick up or stream age tape 2 today.

Photo Credit: SJ Spreng