Exclusive Interview: Flyleaf

Flyleaf is an American alternative rock band. I was so lucky to interview Sameer Bhattacharya, the guitarist from Flyleaf. Don’t wait any longer and check it out below.

What inspired you to record, Between The Stars”?

Life in general inspired Between the Stars. Love, heartache, loss, faith, and redemption.

“Set Me On Fire” is a powerful single. What is the story behind this song?

Kristen, Pat, and myself had just finished reading Veronica Roth’s Divergent. We were inspired by Tris’ character. She stepped into the unknown to find who she was. Set Me on Fire is recognizing those moments you realize that there is a bigger reason you are here. You are created a certain way for a greater purpose.

And what is the idea behind the last album cover?

Our good friend Douglas Hale from the band Air Review is a brilliant artist. We gave him the album for a sonic reference and said, “make what you feel.”

What are your goals for future?

My goal is to keep making music that inspires. Make more and more Flyleaf albums and tour them. I hope to expand my musical horizons and delve deeper into the world of scores and soundtracks.

Did you know that type of sound you wanted to starting out? How would you describe Flyleaf music style?

When Flyleaf started we just wanted to write music that inspired others and had purpose. I don’t think that has changed.

It’s difficult to classify your own music. I’ll just write it and let someone else label it what they see fit.

What is your strongest memory from tour?

It was the last day of the Australian tour with Deftones and none of us had been to the beach yet. Headed to the airport we were in van and our luggage wan in another, so we just pulled over and jumped into the ocean in our underwear.

(I have the full image on a hard drive somewhere, but for convenience I just attached a screenshot of my Instagram post.)

Left to right: Rich Caldwell, Sameer Bhattacharya, Pat Seals.

And is there anything that could ever convince Flyleaf to stop creating?

We would stop creating if we lost our sense of purpose. I would, anyway.

Do you have tips for new bands trying to get released?

First of all, ask yourself why you are even pursuing a music career. Look past the glamorous façade and really think it through. It can’t be for the fame, because that is an empty dream. It can’t be for the money, because you’ll be sorely disappointed. Do it because you know you creating music with and for a greater purpose. Write your music with intention. Surround yourself with a team that whole-heartedly routs for you (manager, label, lawyer, booking agent, etc). Be the hardest working band you know. Play your heart out.

Thank you so much for the Interview. Do you have a message for your fans and readers?

You are created with purpose and intention. You are loved. Thank you for supporting us over all these years. See you on the road!

Photos: Flyleaf