Coca-Cola warehouseman Adam Young cured his insomnia by making music, and as Owl City his single Fireflies topped charts in the U.S., Canada and the U.K.
But the Minnesota native is notoriously reluctant to give interviews. Metro Sweden’s Katarina Matsson managed to spark an email exchange with the reluctant star.
Hello Adam, you came from nowhere to reach number one in several countries and suddenly the buzz is everywhere. Who are you?
I have no idea who I am. It’s sort of like that Jackie Chan movie…
When and why did you start making music?
I didn’t have anything sweet to do with myself so I started making music in my parent’s basement two years ago. I found the process pleasing and thus, I haven’t stopped.
I understand that you created Owl City due to insomnia. Do you still have trouble sleeping?
I take Ambien a lot and sometimes I leave the vacuum cleaner running all night to give me some good background noise. It’s ironic really, because those nights I sleep the littlest, I often find the most inspiration. It’s a blessing and a curse.
Do you still record in your parents’ basement and do you still live there?
Yes and yes.
Why are you called Owl City?
Because it makes more sense than I know how to describe.
Your influences range from God to fashion to art … What is your main inspiration?
God.
What kind of European electronic music do you like?
I’m really into trance music and I listen to a lot of Tiesto, Armin van Buuren, ATB, etc.
You’re often compared to Postal Service, what do you think about that?
I think I want to take my shirt off and grill a burger on the back porch.
You’re travelling the world right now, how do you like your new life? Is it very different?
It’s the same life I’ve always lived except that I ride around in a huge bus and I don’t sleep with any of my own blankets. I also play guitar.
What projects are you working on right now?
A sneaky new album, maybe?
Do you dream of any special collaborations?
Taylor Swift, Shaquille O’Neal.
Name an outfit that makes you feel good.
My dad’s smelly motorcycle jacket.
