We had the good fortune of connecting with J Scott Gavin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi J Scott, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
The music that we continue to put out into the world is meant to be uplifting and motivating. We put out songs that are relatable to a large demographic and is meant to help escape the doldrums of the real world and take you to a place of pure happiness and joy. Good music can change your life, and we’re inspired to put out good music that affects people in a positive way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I feel that being a musician isn’t just something you do, but it’s something that burns deep inside you. It’s a constant force that you can’t escape. Being able to interpret your feelings and creating art that you can share with the world is such a special gift and I would encourage everyone to try it.

Where I am today with The Thieves About has come about through many years of grinding, pushing, learning & growing. I’m proud of the hundreds of late night shows, playing to small crowds in dingy bars. That effort has lead us to being recognized in the community and given us opportunities to open for bands like Our Lady Peace, Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers (the Refreshments) and Dogstar (Keanu Reeves’ band.). You have to keep grinding and keep working to improve your craft and good things will happen.

The biggest challenge we face, outside of the need for a larger social media presence, is the work/life balance. Now that we have families and responsibilities outside of the band, there is a greater need for communication and flexibility.

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?
Being that I’m a North county guy, my first stop would be down to Stonesteps for a dip in the ocean. I’d follow that up with a nostalgia trip to my favorite dive bar – Captain Keno’s! One thing that I’ve done, that I definitely recommend for out of towners is a brewery tour. From North County we hop on the Coaster and make our way to Santa Fe Depot. From there, the possibilities are endless. Pull up a brewery map on your google and prepare to spend the day making your way through the city tasting delicious craft beers, and make your way north hitting up all the hot spots. Don’t miss Mission, Ballast Point, Societe, and Modern Times. Just a few of my favorites. Hit up breakfast at Claires or Good On Ya, lunch at Bird’s Eye Kitchen or Flower Child, and grab some sushi at Kai Ola. And because I’m a big fan (not as big as my son!), you gotta get to Petco Park for a Padres game. If you’re into music, catch a show at the Belly Up. If you’re into sports, be sure to enjoy the atmosphere at Tower 13.

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?
Where would I be without my bandmates – Brian Ulery (drums) and Andrew Williams (bass/vocals). These guys drive me to be a better musician and write to the absolute best of my abilities. We’re just scratching the surface of how good we can be as a band and I really look forward to our continued growth.

Big shout outs to Jae Daniel at Black Rock EPS in Buffalo, NY for the inspiration to push my passion and to Cedrick Curtois at Studio West in Poway, CA for his incredible work as our Engineer, Mentor and Friend. Brad Nelson and Chris Kantor for our years as the band GOODER. Also shouting out the band Hardly Human for being supportive and for pushing us to create great music.

Website: https://www.thethievesabout.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_thieves_about/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thethievesabout

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9JmkqQXuZP68c1aJf8OymQ

Image Credits
Greg Vitalich @ rock solid images Steve Godwin

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.