Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to AP Tobler. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

AP, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I knew that I wanted to be a musician from the second I first sat down at a drum kit, at the age of 8. I had been searching for some sort of activity or hobby, and wanted to do some sort of martial art. My mother had vetoed this idea as she didn’t want me getting injured, and suggested that I try an instrument. A local music school was hosting an open house and my mom took me so I could try playing drums. There were two instructors in the room, one on guitar, and one on keyboards. I sat down at the kit and started playing. It hit me right then and there. It was the most fun I’d ever had, and I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. That first jam session sparked a love for collaboration, improvisation, and of course, percussion. After that, I signed up for lessons, and time only solidified and strengthened my passion for music. It’s been nearly 11 years since I first sat down at that drum kit. I’ve picked up other instruments along the way, performed with some of my favorite artists, released original music, and gotten into my dream school, and never once have I questioned that this is what I was meant to do.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is AP! I’m a 19 year old multi-instrumentalist and songwriter from San José, CA. I write alternative grunge music, with heavy focus on mental health, being queer, and traumatic experiences. My music is heavily influenced by the 90’s alternative and grunge scenes, taking inspiration from artists like Nirvana, Hole, Green Day, and Weezer. I have released two albums, two EPs, and many singles since I started writing and releasing original music in 2019 at the age of 13. My most recent album, Parasite, was released in April 2024 on all streaming platforms and features seven heavy, gritty, and emotion-filled alt-grunge tunes. I’ve played many live shows in California, opening for bands such as Destroy Boys, Archer Oh, and Post S*x Nachos, and am now on a hiatus from performing so I can focus on writing and studying. I’m currently a student at Berklee College of Music in Boston, studying drum set, and writing new songs that I hope to release in the future!

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My biggest goal is to help folks struggling with their mental health feel less alone and have someone/something to connect with. I’m completely honest and transparent in my music and online, which helps people with similar experiences relate. I am also open about my experience as a gender non-conforming and queer person. which many of my fans and followers can relate to as well! In short, I want to bring people together with my art, to connect, and to create a beautiful and supportive community together.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

There are a lot of different ways that people can support artists. My first thought was monetarily, like buying tickets for their shows, purchasing merchandise, and buying their music instead of streaming. Streaming revenue also pays artists, but the cut is so small that it’s impossible for small artists just getting their footing to make any real headway financially. If possible, try purchasing some music, and if not, streaming is still a good way to support! Other ways to support artists include promoting and sharing their music online and telling your friends about them!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://aptobler.com/music
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ap.tobler/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aptobler/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/aptobler
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/ap-tobler

Image Credits

Elle Jaye