Hidden Gems: Meet Justin Long

Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Long.

Hi Justin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
DIREVILLE started during the pandemic of 2020. The idea was to create a musical outlet that could support the most vulnerable and sometimes dark emotions through music. The DIREVILLE name is based on the ghost town Dyresville in Colorado. Their sound embodies the dark western-outlaw themes and songwriting that I think so many people can resonate with. Not only do we have dark songs but also high-energy and electric jams that could light up any desolate town. The project started of members from other bands that needed to reinvent themselves during the crisis of 2020. These bands Included Chewy&Bach and Floatgoat who had been established in the Denver scene for quite a while. The project quickly evolved as the industry started to move again. We went deep into the mountains and created our unique dark blues/funk sound through a series of marathon cabin sessions. Launching into the world, we sold out our debut Denver show at Lost Lake and have been quickly climbing the Colorado music scene. Looking ahead, we have upcoming shows on 8/6 at Cervantes with the nationally acclaimed band The Texas Gentleman and a show at The Fox Theatre on 9/3. In just a few years, we have played over 50 shows and released multiple music videos. I’m excited to see what the future holds for this band.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Even though the project started during the pandemic, the effects were still felt. Musicians had to re-think their paths and their original drummer split ways to pursue a different project. Balancing a drummer’s change during the debut and rollout of their first full music video was tricky. But it all worked out and we found an awesome drummer Adam Walsh who has a wealth of experience and creative input to contribute. Like any collaborative project, balancing creative direction can be hard and we are no exception, especially with many powerful songwriters and personalities. But overall, the experience and music we create are 100% worth the struggles.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I’ve always committed to music not only as my passion but also as my day job the best I can. I run my own music instruction business. My curriculums focus on being flexible to the student’s goals and covering a wide range of teaching approaches to help a student be more creative and adept in musicality. I also work for a booking agency Loose Leaf Talent Agency, that represents up-and-coming artists across the U.S. We give chances to artists who may not get recognition from bigger agencies in the early stages. Loose Leaf has been growing rapidly and the bands I represent have seen a huge growth towards their career goals.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I’ve gotten big into podcasts within the music business and creative realm. Eric Krasno’s Plus One, Andy Frasco’s World Saving Podcast, and Cory Wong’s Wong Tones are all great options that have given me a better understanding of the current industry.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Instagram.com/Direville
• Facebook: Facebook.com\Direville
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC71A8Xav217prz5-qFcdrtQ

Image Credits
Tyler Trepod