Hailing from the vibrant streets of QC, I’m Richard Clave, but you can call me Chard. I’m a musician, currently making waves with my bands, The Sunday Overdrive and UDS. Beyond performing, I also craft the soundscapes as a music producer, working with both my own bands and other talented artists.
What are some of the biggest challenges and rewards you’ve encountered as an independent musician navigating the music industry?
First of all, thank you for this opportunity to be interviewed. I truly appreciate it. My biggest challenge early on was realizing that the only things that truly help you are yourself and your passion. Before forming The Sunday Overdrive (TSOD), my first band was dysfunctional, lacking direction. It was just a casual project with my best friend from high school. During that time, I started writing songs even though I didn’t know how to play any instruments. However, I was familiar with notes and tempo, and I felt this calling, like “Hey, music likes me, so music chose me.” I still can’t believe that music is not only my passion but also my purpose, to captivate others.
I think the most rewarding experience was signing with Polyeast, especially with UDS. We’re like a tag team in wrestling, because we have such a dynamic collaboration when it comes to songwriting, composing, and arranging. He’s like the one who draws the canvas, and I’m the one who colors it. I’ll never forget how he helped shape my perspective on music and the indie industry. A big thank you to KATUKS, which is short for KATUKAYO, since his real name is also Richard.
Looking back at your musical journey, what is one pivotal moment or decision that shaped your career path?
My approach has always been to persevere, no matter the obstacles. I’m an optimist, believing I can achieve my goals even if lightning strikes in front of me. I’ll keep going until I reach a place free from storms.
My mom initially doubted my decision to pursue music and drop out of college. We had some disagreements because she wanted me to get a diploma. However, she eventually supported my path, recognizing my confidence and passion.
Meeting UDS during the pandemic was a turning point. He’s been a tremendous help, not just musically but personally as well. He shared his wisdom and advice, which I now pass on to others.
I’m incredibly proud of that decision and still carry that self-confidence with me today.
You’ve played in two bands, “The Sunday Overdrive” and “UDS.” How do these two projects differ in terms of musical style, creative process, and overall band dynamics? What did you learn from each experience?
Those two bands represent two sides of my personality. The Sunday Overdrive embodies my energetic and sarcastic side, while UDS is more calm and chill. To put it simply, TSOD is underground, while UDS is mainstream. I value both bands deeply, especially TSOD, which is my pride and joy. I solely write the songs and arrangements for TSOD, drawing from my roots in pop punk, emo, and alternative rock. It’s great that the current lineup of TSOD allows other members to contribute, so I’m not burdened with writing if I experience writer’s block.
UDS, on the other hand, is different. I become a different person when I’m with UDS. It allows me to explore genres beyond my roots. I realized that while I was enjoying playing with the band, something kept telling me, “You need to explore outside your bubble.” How can I expand myself as a producer if I stay stagnant in my comfort zone? So I embraced that thought and it’s helped me a lot.
How does your experience as a musician inform your approach to music production, and vice versa? Do these roles ever conflict or complement each other?
I think music production is more like painting. It’s about valuing and embracing the art. I really enjoy music production because it has shaped me as a musician. I have so many melodies and rhythms running through my head that I need to bring them to life, to make them come to fruition. Once they’re gone, it’s hard to fully recapture them.
I’m a self-taught producer, just like when I started playing guitar. It’s a gift from God, because I’m a bit indecisive. As a kid, I’d just go with whatever I saw. But thankfully, that changed when I met my best friend in high school. Props to him for that.
Do you find it challenging to balance your roles as a musician and a producer? How do you manage your time and energy effectively?
Being a musician and a producer at the same time feels like it was meant to be. They complement each other perfectly, and I can easily give and receive that effect. Sometimes I experience a creative block, but once I put something down on the track, I can finish it quickly. I still have gaps in my music production knowledge, I admit that, but I’m always open to learning from others. It’s beneficial for me.
Lastly, What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are also interested in pursuing music production?
My advice to anyone starting out in music production is: Be creative, disciplined, passionate, and most importantly, have a lot of patience. It’s a wild ride, if you know what I mean.
Follow them now:
The Sunday Overdrive:
– Facebook: The Sunday Overdrive
– Instagram: @thesundayoverdrive
UDS:
– Facebook: UDS MUSIC
– Instagram/Tiktok: @udsmusicofficial
Listen to their music on Spotify:
– The Sunday Overdrive: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1U7Q4FdPJZBwdw3kWbtWem?si=WhRJcEkyQzGQCK5cVGWARwto Spotify
– UDS: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0A6pTQ2YqaNmN8CMjPTliL?si=vuY0E_BXSLGo0vs1PLz58A
Stay tuned for more from these amazing artists! 🙌
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