Garland, TX – The indie pop duo The Blue Line, comprised of brothers Michael and John Rodriguez, is quickly making a name for themselves in the vibrant music scene. Recently, they sat down for an in-depth interview at Tavern on the Square, a cozy restaurant and bar known for its delectable bites and inviting atmosphere, positioned perfectly to overlook the Plaza Theatre and a colorful mural on the Tavern’s exterior.
Musical Beginnings and Family Influence
From an early age, music has been an integral part of the Rodriguez brothers’ lives. John, who “picked up the guitar at a young age,” recalls strumming away in the family living room, his passion evident even then. “I have no memories where he wasn’t playing guitar,” Michael said, reflecting on his brother’s dedication. Meanwhile, Michael spent years mastering the piano before discovering the world of music production through FL Studio. “One of my older brothers gave me FL Studio for Christmas, and I just started making beats,” he shared.
Their musical journey truly began to flourish around 2019, during the pandemic, when they began collaborating more seriously. “Michael was always eager to record,” John explained. “We recorded a bunch of John’s songs during that time, and it felt like we were finally finding our sound,” Michael added. Their first published work, although unrefined in their opinion, became a cherished milestone in their artistic journey.
The Bond Between Brothers
The connection between Michael and John goes beyond music; it’s rooted in their shared childhood experiences and family life. Growing up in Garland, the brothers often spent time together, whether it was jamming in their rooms or going on adventures around the city. Their family has always been supportive of their musical aspirations, and it shows in their collaborative spirit.
Michael’s nostalgia for their childhood shines through as he recalls taking the DART light rail’s blue line into Dallas with their mother for protests and rallies. “I remember getting up early in the morning and eating cold Pop-Tarts on the train,” he said, a smile spreading across his face. This formative experience inspired their band’s name, The Blue Line.
Captivating Audiences and Future Prospects
As they perform at local venues, The Blue Line is turning heads with their catchy original songs and impressive covers across various genres. Their ability to connect with audiences is palpable, and during the interview, it was hard to ignore the attention they attracted from passersby.
One of Michael’s standout tracks, “ik u care,” exudes passion and lyrical relatability. “That song really captures my feelings after a relationship I was in,” Michael explained. “She left to study abroad, and all these emotions came flooding over me. I poured everything into that song.” The heartfelt lyrics and catchy melody have resonated with listeners, and it has become a fan favorite.
The brothers frequently busk around the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, sharing their music with the community. Their performances have garnered a growing fan base and are poised to sell out larger venues with their stage presence, sound, and ability to resonate with a large audience.
Creative Process and Artistic Vision
The creative process for The Blue Line is a blend of collaboration and individual expression. “Our best music happens when we both contribute equally,” Michael explained. “It’s all about finding that balance.” John added, “We’ve recorded a lot of songs together, and each one tells a story from our lives.”
Their upcoming EP, featuring several new tracks, is generating excitement among fans. “We’re really excited about this new music,” John said. Michael expressed confidence in their work, sharing that “ik u care” is a prime example of how their experiences shape their music. “The magic happens when we both put in our talents to create something,” he added.
Looking Ahead
With their relatable lyrics and infectious melodies, The Blue Line is poised for success. Their music resonates with listeners, touching on themes of love and personal growth. As they continue to hone their craft and build their reputation, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding their future.
With their dedication, talent, and the strong bond between them, it’s clear that The Blue Line is on a path to achieving great things in the music industry. As they continue to perform and connect with audiences, one thing is certain: their star is only set to rise higher.
Check out the Blue Line live on the Tiny Stage at Bee Hippy on July 6th, and to learn more about the Blue Line and follow their music, visit their links.
