John Chandler Chats with TMI about his new single, “Missing”
By Jorge Trevino
John Chandler was born in Alabama but moved to Atlanta when he was four. While waiting in the lobby of the Ritz Carlton, he met Maurice Starr, the man behind New Kids on the Block and New Edition. Starr added Chandler to a new boyband he was forming, 6PIECE, and Chandler was soon opening for NSYNC on the Pop Odyssey Tour and sharing the stage with acts like Alicia Keys, Jagged Edge, and Trisha Yearwood.
“Being discovered so early was a blessing and a curse,” John reveals now. “On one hand, it was amazing to be given such an incredible opportunity, but on the other, it gave me a false sense of how the world works. I thought dreams were just handed to you at 16, and then you lived happily ever after.”
John Chandler is now releasing music as a solo act. He co-wrote his new song, “Missing” with American Idol finalist Brandon Rogers. We chatted with John from his Nashville home.
Can you tell us the backstory of “Missing”? What inspired you to write and record the single?
I felt like something was wrong in my life, and after speaking with my dad, I realized that something was just missing. I wanted to write about it because I think everyone can relate to that feeling.
Do you have a creative say in your music today?
I have all the say and creative input in my music. That’s the beauty of being an indie artist and writing your own material.
Where did your love of music come from?
My parents are both musicians, and music always made me feel something.
What does it feel like to be releasing your own original music?
It feels amazing. So many people want to do things and never do!
What do you miss most about 6PIECE?
I miss the brotherhood and friendship. It was fun having that experience with five other guys.
Do you keep in touch with the guys from 6PIECE?
I do! It gets harder as we get older, but we try!
Do you still hear from your 6PIECE fans?
Every once in a while, someone will hit me up on social media, and I love it.
How would you compare your fans today with your fans from the boyband days?
Now, most fans are online. Back then, it was more in person.
What do you want your fans to take away from your music and shows?
Hopefully people connect to my lyrics, and my music makes them feel something.
Will you start performing your own music live soon?
OMG, I hope so!
What do you want your teen fans to know that you think is important?
If you have a dream, you better really have it, because it might take a long time. You have to enjoy the journey.
What’s something fans don’t know about you?
I was a key witness in a murder trial when I was eight years old.
Have you ever been starstruck?
When I met Cher in NYC, I was very starstruck.
Is there anyone in the music business you are dying to meet?
(Laughing) I want to meet everyone! I love to collaborate.
What do you want your fans to know if they ever see you in public?
Feel free to say hello to me!
Why do you think social media is so important for artists like yourself?
We have access to the whole world from our phone; that’s amazing!
What platform are you most active on?
Instagram, for sure.
Are you planning any IG Lives to promote your new music?
I am! Just trying to figure out the right time.
Speaking of, you have more music coming out in 2021! Can you spill any details on what your fans can look forward to?!?
I’m really excited about this EP because it’s all about my journey over the past few years, and I think everyone will relate to it.
What would you say is your biggest dream or goal right now?
I’m trying to not limit myself and pursue every creative outlet, not just music.
Have you found what was “Missing”?
Well, that’s the point in the song; it’s an ever-changing thing. We’re always looking for what’s missing, and finding balance.
Any last message or shout-out?
I hope every teen knows their power. You can create the next popstar, political figure, business… all by who you support online. And enjoy being young, don’t go too fast!!
John Chandler’s “Missing” is being released independently and is available now on Apple Music, Amazon and all other major retailers, as well as for streaming through Spotify. Its video is on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mf_5Kuw86c.
Follow John Chandler on Instagram @ johnchandlerofficial and Facebook @ johnchandlerr. Visit http://Johnchandlerofficial.com/