INTRODUCING SKINNY BRIDGES: THE ARTIST BEHIND THE MUSIC

In the suburbs of a city that could be practically anywhere in the western world, a place where the sun paints the sky with hues of twilight, Skinny Bridges has carved out a sanctuary. His home, an intimate art gallery, office, and living space, is a testament to his eclectic influences - a fusion of eastern philosophies, Finnish traditions, and an undeniable sense of coziness and openness. This space, filled with books, art, and interior decoration, is a reflection of the man himself - a musician with a unique perspective on his craft. Settling into a stylish yet comfortable leather chair, the large bookshelf behind him standing as a silent testament to his intellectual curiosity, Bridges exudes a sense of calm. "I'm not a professional in the traditional sense," he says, his gaze steady, "I'm a conduit for art." His words hang in the air, a declaration of his unique approach to his craft.

His journey into music began with the resonating sound of his father's organ playing, a memory that still brings a twinkle to his eyes. "I composed my first song at five," he shares, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. His early performances, playful and informal, were the stepping stones that led him to the path he walks today. These childhood experiences, though seemingly insignificant at the time, were instrumental in shaping his musical journey. They were the first notes in the symphony of his life, the first strokes on the canvas of his artistry. When it comes to musical influences - they are as diverse as the art that adorns his walls. From the Caribbean and Mediterranean rhythms of his grandfather Pierre Rassin to the existentialist influence of Tove Jansson and the practical approach of Finnish designer Kai Frank, his music is a rich tapestry of inspirations. "Every note I play, every word I write, is a piece of the world I've experienced," he muses. His music is a melting pot of these influences, each note a testament to the people and experiences that have shaped him.

As one might guess, songwriting process is indeed a journey into the depths of his emotions, a journey he often undertakes alone. His songs are born from the exploration of complex emotions, each lyric a piece of his soul. Despite his self-proclaimed dread for live performances, he acknowledges their crucial role in his creative journey. "I don't force creativity," he says, his gaze drifting towards the window, "I believe in achieving a state of order, and then the music just flows." His approach to creativity is as unique as his music, a blend of patience, introspection, and a deep understanding of his own emotional landscape.

Yet - this artist isn't just a musician; he's also the program director of his own company, fostering a creative atmosphere that mirrors his own approach to music. His workspace is a testament to his belief in the power of collaboration and the importance of a supportive environment. His fourth personal project, Skinny Bridges, is a commitment to provide brotherly help through his musical message. "By Fall 2023, we're set to release our first single," he shares, a spark of excitement in his eyes. His musical collaborators, including Jukka Backlund and Juho Kahilainen, are as eager as he is to share their creation with the world. Their shared passion for music and their commitment to their craft promise a future filled with exciting collaborations and inspiring music.

As our conversation draws to a close, Bridges leaves us with a final message for his fans: "Music is a shared journey, and you are as much a part of this as I am. Let's untie life's knots together, one song at a time." His words resonate with sincerity and warmth, a testament to his belief in the power of music to connect and heal. With a promise of more to come from Skinny Bridges, he continues to make waves in the music scene. His unwavering dedication to his craft and unique approach to music promise exciting things for his upcoming projects. As I leave his space, the echo of his words and the resonance of his music linger in the air, a testament to the man and the artist that is Skinny Bridges. His journey is far from over, and as he continues to explore the depths of his creativity, we can only wait in anticipation for the next chapter in his musical journey.