Inspired #246 - Garrett Paknis
New York City born performance artist Garrett Paknis has just released his UK Garage and club fueled single ‘The Light’ - which is a track about finding strength during your darkest moments. He took a moment to talk to us about the inspirations behind his music.
Who are your top three musical inspirations?
David Bowie, Grace Jones and Stevie Nicks. These are people who don’t just make music - they ARE music, and that comes from the soul and can never be taken away.
Is there a certain film that inspires you?
The Hunger with Catherine Deneuve and Bowie - the shadow play and mix of erotica and obsession with a fatal twist really does it for me.
Also, the French film The Lovers on The Bridge because it showcases how two opposite worlds can collide and how the strangest of attractions and people can be the sexiest.
What city do you find the most inspiring?
I’ve got to say London which I am happy to be calling home these days! I was born just outside of New York City, and lived in downtown Manhattan from my teenage years on... then spent a couple of years in Berlin, and also lived in Bali... but this place really does it for me. Awesome, eccentric people, an open mind, and so much culture.
Who is the most inspiring person to you?
My mom is an incredible lady. I remember being in high school and my friends would already be over before I was even home... talking to my mom in the living room! She has a selfless heart and energy to her and has helped thousands of people as a psychotherapist and business owner. She’s a bad ass!
What were your inspirations when writing your new track?
I’m so not into the type of music that degrades our experiences or puts us against each other... even when we’re feeling broken hearted and bitter. I wanted to share my truth - which is that someone can deeply hurt you, but you can still be grateful for the experience and come out on the other side stronger and better than ever before. So I wanted to give a deeply meaningful story of goodbye and finding THE LIGHT along with a beat that you could vibe to in the club (hoping they open this summer!)
How would you like to inspire people?
I hope to let people know that you don’t have to hide who you are and live inside the box society constructs for you. Embrace your feminine. Embrace your masculine. Embrace your divinity! And especially... embrace the weirdos who make you think! They’re the geniuses of the world.