Meet Paul Vinsonhaler | Musician, Producer, Film Composer.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Paul Vinsonhaler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Paul, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I’m always surprised how often I am asked about this topic when I talk with other creatives. I think it’s an important question. My work life balance has become probably the most important element in my life nowadays. I have valued it’s importance more and more over the years. For more of a personal approach – my wife and I have 2 small children, demanding day jobs, and lots of interests. At this stage in my life the most important currency is time. My wife and I always try to view our decisions through the filter of time over money if we can. Whether that’s accepting a job or taking on a new project etc… We don’t always have that luxury, but fighting for a healthy work life balance is essential for us to be present parents, human beings, and productive in our work. From more of a creative standpoint – I am fortunate to do most of my creative work at home in my music studio. This allows me to set aside designated time to focus on a project when my wife is away on a work trip or the kids are down for bed. We plan and work on a schedule together, which helps us to allocate time to specific things. Not compromising time with my family is always on my mind. It is also essential for me to have down time away from work/creating,

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I primarily focus on music. I started in film composition here in Memphis TN working on independent films around 2010. That has led to producing my own music in a solo capacity and working in a couple bands (Susurra & Blood Resignation). But I have been a lover of music and art since I can remember. I’m certainly not the only one doing this and I don’t really Identify with the city I live in, but I think what sets me apart at least locally is sounding very different than what you would expect to hear in Memphis. Memphis is known for a very specific thing, which most people seem to like. I am not a fan of that sound (with the exception of Three 6 Mafia which I love). I’m doing what I can to provide a hint of myself in my music which happens to be unique I hope. Whether that’s here in Memphis or somewhere else, I hope it helps someone discover something new. Also, I have covered a lot of different sounds and ideas throughout my journey in music. I am proud of how most of those have turned out. I’m also proud of the recent bands I’m in: Susurra & Blood Resignation. As far as overcoming challenges. Well like I said earlier I tend to gravitate towards aesthetics and sounds that are more obscure. It’s not for everyone, so I’ve had to learn and accept that not everyone will connect with what I do, and that’s ok. I’ve stayed true to what I like and can do. If you can afford to keep going, use whatever is in front of you at the time to keep making music. Find out why it is you do what you do and let that be your north star.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For Memphis (where I currently live) I would suggest: Shelby Farms, Crosstown Concourse, Memphis Museum of Science & History, Memphis Botanic Garden, The Brooks Museum, The Orpheum Theatre, Black Lodge, Goner Records, and any of the Andrew Michael restaurants. For Nashville it would be seeing a show at the Ryman Auditorium, Marathon Village, 12th Ave South, eating at Folk restaurant, and getting drinks at The Fox.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My wife has always been supportive throughout my creative journey. She may not always understand what the heck I’m doing creatively haha, but she’s always given me the space to do my thing. As far as mentors, I have valued my friendship with musician and pioneer Larry Heard. We have spent a lot of time together listening to vinyl records at his home, sharing new music, and talking about all things creative. I could listen to him talk about what he’s learned over the years in the industry for hours. He’s always been so generous and humble over the years. There are other friends and family members which I have cherished over the years as well.

Website: https://paulvinsonhaler.bandcamp.com/

Instagram: @pvnsnhlr @susurra_band @blood_resignation

Youtube: @paulvinsonhaler6811

Other: susurraband.com

Image Credits
Sam Leathers