Sixteen Questions: Wes Geiken
A rapid fire interview series
A few years ago a friend of mine was out in LA and met an A&R that was looking for an intern. That A&R was Wes. Shortly after my friend told me about him we connected and kept in touch. I never ended up being his intern, but I’m glad our paths crossed because I ended up getting an amazing friend out of it (plus we’ve ended up working together in several different areas). Wes is the Head of Creative at Big Family Music and an artist/producer manager. He also surfs, runs marathons, bikes, and probably so much more I haven’t heard about yet. He’s a gem of a person and has taught me a lot about our profession, being a supportive friend, and having a good time.
Coffee or tea?
Drip coffee w/ half & half + a lil honey.
What’s your ideal breakfast burrito?
If we’re talking restaurant, probably Tacos Tu Madre, but in general I just need a solid ratio of eggs to potatoes (not too much egg). NEVER bell peppers or anything soggy. Ideally 2-3 sauces/salsas, one of them a chipotle crema.
What’s your favorite area in LA?
Does Malibu count? I’m a sucker for a beach day.
Who’s your favorite artist? (Dead or Alive)
Probably Bob Marley. I’m reading “The Islander” right now, which is about the birth of Island Records (which was started in Jamaica by Chris Blackwell, who eventually signed Bob Marley). My dad has always said that seeing him perform live was the most spiritual experience of his life, I can feel that in the music.
What’s your favorite article of clothing in your closet right now?
I’m in a period of hating all my clothes haha, but I just got these pinstripe baggy jeans from the Carhartt WIP store in London and I can’t stop wearing them.
Gold or silver jewelry?
Silver.
What’s your dream car?
1986 Toyota Land Cruiser. Epitome of form and function.
Mountains or beaches?
Love both, but surfing>snowboarding. So, we’re going with beaches.
If you could wear only one shoe for the rest of your life what would it be?
I think a solid pair of black Blundstones. They work for pretty much any occasion from a date night to a hike (and they don’t look too bad). Plus, they have a lifetime warranty.
What’s a movie, album, and book you’re loving at the moment?
Movie: No Country For Old Men (can watch at any time, anywhere, in any mood). The visuals are so on point.
Album: Everybody’s Heart is Broken Now by Niki and the Dove
Book: All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy
What’s your ideal morning look like?
Getting up pretty early after a good sleep, making a nice pour over, and reading my book. Then driving out to West Ridge trailhead for a long run in the Santa Monica mountains. After that a big green juice from Whole Foods on the way home. LA has changed me...
What’s your ideal evening look like?
Leaving the studios in Malibu Canyon and stopping for a surf at Third Point with a friend. Then cruising down PCH and getting some Thai food at Cholada. Top it all off with a movie at home with my roommates (and ice cream). Perfection.
Someone approaches you to pick out 6 headliners for a music festival that lasts two weekends, who are you picking?
That is so hard.
Sabrina Carpenter. Tame Impala. The 1975. Zach Bryan. Paul McCartney. Kendrick Lamar.
What are two things that are out and two things that are in?
Out: Amazon and complaining.
In: Whole milk cappuccinos and going to the movies alone on a week night.
What’s inspiring you most right now?
“The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield. Highly recommend this book if you’re having a creative block or are finding it difficult to get started on a big project.
What are you working on right now?
Helping build a record label, writing a children’s book, and getting fit for another marathon.