The summer before my sophomore year of high school was when the US became obsessed with a reality competition show known as ‘American Idol,’ and I was one of the millions tuning in as if my life depended on it. I’d stay dedicated to the show for eight seasons, although that eighth one wasn’t given as much love as the seventh (my favorite). In hindsight, while I loved the contestants, their stories, and their above-and-beyond skills – it was Simon Cowell’s ability to recognize talent instantly, that “it factor.” By the fifth season, I felt I’d studied the show and vocal prowess of hopefuls enough to know when someone had “it.” That’s why I hitched my horse to Chris Daughtry that season, and while he didn’t win the season – just look at the career he’s had. All of that to say, I’m pretty confident that if someone allowed me to judge vocalists daily, I’d be able to tell you within seconds who had it and who didn’t. David Kushner, he has it.

A voice that you’ll soon read I’ve noted would be criminal to have while working at your local H&R Block. Kushner does not have an “oh my friend can carry a tune voice.” Oh no, he has a voice that was meant to be heard around the world, and now it can be as he dropped his debut album, ‘The Dichotomy’ at the tail end of August, and will kick off in Portland, OR on September 9th. We talked not only about all of that and then some including where in Los Angeles serves inspiration best, cinematic ways, and more like whether or not he’s hopeful about humankind.

Kendra: You have the type of voice that, well, it’d feel criminal if you weren’t singing and were in a random office job somewhere only pulling out your skills at the holiday party during karaoke. With that said, when did you become aware of your vocal abilities?

David Kushner: I think I became aware of my vocal abilities pretty early on. Singing was always something that felt natural to me, like a way to express what I couldn’t always say in words. But it wasn’t until I started performing in front of others that I realized it was more than just something I enjoyed—it was a way to connect with people.

Kendra: Originally from Chicago, I know it’s such a haven for hip-hop and pop punk but what about the singer-songwriter scene out there? Was it not as vibrant as elsewhere because I’d love to know what made you head off to my old homestead, Los Angeles…

David Kushner: Chicago has a music scene, but for me, the move to LA was about expanding my horizons and finding new opportunities to grow as an artist. LA offered a different kind of creative energy and a community that I felt could help me push my music to the next level.

Kendra: Again, you’re LA-based now and with that, I have to ask where in the City of Angels is your “Sweet Oblivion” when it comes to being inspired creatively?

David Kushner: My “Sweet Oblivion” in LA is probably somewhere near the ocean. Me and my girlfriend spent a lot of time around Santa Monica and Malibu beaches when I first started going over there.