Hiya Nathaniel, thanks for joining us in the virtual RGM lounge today. Grab a brew and take a seat.
What made you decide that music is a thing for you?
Listening to Mr. Tambourine Man by Bob Dylan. I wish I could pinpoint exactly why, but the way the song weaves storytelling and music together so simply and effectively makes it irresistible to me. From a young age, I was drawn to music—it felt like destiny.
Introduce us to you all and your musical history.
I started playing music at church with an old hippie who would sometimes show up—and sometimes forget to. That meant that, at just 12 or 13 years old, I was leading church on my own. I remember the church ladies sitting up front, helping to sing when Bill didn’t show up.
From there, I started a rock cover band, which sparked a love for classic rock and eventually led me to classical music. I went on to study classical guitar in college for two years. After graduating, I moved to NYC with my wife, Jillian, and together we began our life in music as The Bergamot.
I play music almost every day—it’s a profound and meaningful part of my life.
What’s the live music scene like in Chicago, IL right now?
I’d love to say the music scene is vibrant, but it’s been a tough few years. That said, I’m a big fan of Sufjan Stevens—you’re probably familiar with him. Another great act to check out is Red Wanting Blue—they put on an incredible show in Chicago and are definitely a must-see.
I’ve seen a lot of people struggling for support recently online. What’s your view on the industry?
“It’s the best of times, it’s the worst of times,” to quote Dickens. There has never been a better time to share your music with the world—but with that comes the challenge of standing out among the 180,000 songs released on Spotify every day. With such an overwhelming flood of new material, carving out a space as an artist has become more difficult than ever.
For me, I’ve learned to find joy in the creative process itself—embracing the freedom to make music without being consumed by the noise. As for surviving financially… well, that’s a whole different story.
Where do you feel you currently sit within the music industry?
I’m still finding my footing and building a fanbase. I have a lot of fun putting out music, but I’m also learning what resonates and what doesn’t.
I’ve been fortunate to experience some incredible moments with The Bergamot and our film, State of the Unity. One of the coolest highlights was signing off on a copy of our film’s transcript, which now has a permanent home in the Margaret Herrick Oscar Library in Beverly Hills, CA.
Tell us two truths and a lie about you.
- I am a hard worker. 2. I enjoy the process. 3. I know what I am doing.
Do you ever worry about people taking things the wrong way or cancel culture? Discuss….
Nah, I don’t think there’s too much to worry about when it comes to social media. If your sole focus is chasing fame, then sure, there’s more at stake. But in music, what does being “canceled” even mean? Putting out a bad song?
I keep my social media strictly about music—most of the sideline noise is off-limits for me. It honestly pisses me off when musicians get overly political and make everything about something else. Just make great music and leave it at that. Let the peanut gallery have their peanuts.
Do you sign up to any conspiracy theories? If not, why not?
Heavy stuff—it takes a lot of time to dig into. But if I had to choose, I’d say we probably know more about aliens than we realize.
What was your best experience on stage?
Playing a historic Baldwin Grand at The Morris Performing Arts Center in South Bend, IN—that was a truly unforgettable experience.
What was your worst experience on stage?
Having sh*t thrown at me—pennies, food, drinks—while playing at a bar in New Buffalo, MI. It was pretty hardcore.
Tell us something about you that you think people would be surprised about.
I was a Scholarship Division I College Golfer. Fore!
What are the next steps you plan to reach the next level?
Just keep making music—actually reaching the top feels like some mythical adventure. Sometimes I release a song I don’t think is my best, and it takes off. Other times, I pour my heart into something, and it flops. The goal is simply to keep going.
I hear you have new music. What can you tell us about it?
The song is called The Girl with No Tattoo, inspired by my wife and her unapologetic embrace of uninked expression and individuality. It’s a quirky love song for the uninked—one you can tap your toe to. I was pretty happy with this one! Haha.
What was the recording process like?
Imagine an overly stuffed closet in Chicago, IL—packed with old sheets, comforters, and loads of clothes. Barely enough room to move or breathe—you’d have to step out just to change your mind. But somehow, the sound in that tiny space was incredible.
It was cramped and funky—just like the tune. Then, over the next few months in Charlotte, NC, I worked on adding more musicality and development. It was a fun song to make.
What was the biggest learning curve in writing the new tunes?
Getting over yourself—realizing that what you think only matters as much as you’re willing to change it. I’m my own worst critic; nothing ever feels good enough. But sometimes, it is—and that’s where you have to let go.
Would you change anything now it’s finished?
Nah. When I say I’m done, I never look back. I celebrate what’s been created, but any changes will happen in the next song. I’m always looking forward to the next experiment.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the world?
Make sure to follow me “Nathaniel Paul” & “The Bergamot” on Spotify and check out our film, State of the Unity, on Apple TV.
If you’re feeling inspired, we actually hit the #1 trending video in the world on YouTube with What Actually Happened in Asheville: A Hurricane Helene Story. We got trapped in Asheville, NC, during a once-in-a-million-year storm—it was intense.
Those are some of the main projects I’m proud to have been a part of.
FOLLOW HIM HERE
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