In just a matter of months, “Asleep Talking” by Magnus Ferrell has garnered nearly 2 million streams after going viral. The burgeoning bedroom pop jazz artist played a handful of dates this year and recently made a splash with his major festival debut at Outside Lands in San Francisco.
“I want all my shows and concerts to feel like you’re at Studio 54, like it’s a big disco party and everybody’s comfortable enough to just let loose and be themselves.”
Growing up playing jazz piano, Ferrell developed a deep appreciation for soul, funk, and disco—genres he now infuses seamlessly into his modern pop sound. While he spent years cutting his teeth playing to intimate crowds in small bars and clubs, he is now translating that vibrant, old-school jazz club energy to the live setting. Ferrell’s grandfather famously played saxophone and keys for The Righteous Brothers in addition to cutting solo music of his own. At his mother’s behest, Ferrell started piano lessons at five-years-old, and by middle school, he developed a passion for the instrument, delving into jazz and studying the likes of Bill Evans, Miles Davis, Oscar Peterson, and John Coltrane. He expanded his palette via Bruno Major, Mac Ayres, Still Woozy, Michael Jackson, and Stevie Wonder. Along the way, he took advantage of any opportunity to perform, whether it be dueting with his grandfather at a family wedding or joining a school jazz band. Ferrell plans a new project and more live performances for the fall as he builds off the current newfound exposure.
Magnus Ferrell spoke with B-Sides host Pete Mar about the album’s lyrical depth, the collaborative process, the inspiration behind its title, and more.
