Features : Exclusive Interview with Abe Yellen

Artist Spotlight: Abe Yellen

Born in Petaluma, California, and raised in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, Yellen found his footing on church stages and open mic nights before trading college for the road and joining his older brother’s band Night Beds on tour. He eventually landed in Austin, where he spent years building records for other artists — helping them find their sound while quietly stockpiling his own. His influences run wide: the Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, the Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Bossa Nova, and Jazz. Genre has always been a complicated question for him — not because he lacks identity, but because he’s after something bigger. He’d rather create the genre than fit into one.

In this conversation, we go beyond the music with Abe Yellen, diving into the moments that shaped their soul.

FreshMusicWorld: How do you balance your personal life with your music career?

Abe Yellen: I think it's important for me to spend time with friends, be outside, and remember there's a lot to be grateful for outside of just music.

FreshMusicWorld: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not making music?

Abe Yellen: I've always loved fly fishing, camping, being near the ocean, and spending time catching up with good friends.

FreshMusicWorld: What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day of recording or performing?

Abe Yellen: Usually with a book, taking a long walk, or watching an old black-and-white film.

FreshMusicWorld: How do you deal with self-doubt or moments of insecurity?

Abe Yellen: These come up and are normal to have when it's easy to self-critique, but it's always helped me to center myself in prayer.

FreshMusicWorld: What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned from your career?

Abe Yellen: Just to keep moving on, even when you get stuck, and sometimes the first instinct is the best idea. Leaning on others!

FreshMusicWorld: What’s one piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self?

Abe Yellen: Don't take yourself too seriously.

FreshMusicWorld: How involved are you in the creation of your music?

Abe Yellen: I produce it as well as write it, so normally involved with each step of the process.

FreshMusicWorld: Are there any upcoming projects or releases you’re excited about?

Abe Yellen: Have an album coming out in May called Long Goodbye, I'm really excited about.

FreshMusicWorld: What inspired the concept behind your latest project?

Abe Yellen:  It was a way to help me process the end of a meaningful relationship.

FreshMusicWorld: What message or theme do you hope listeners take away from your latest work?

Abe Yellen: To hopefully be inspired, and that the songs will be meaningful and resonate with their own stories.