Gabe Steiner is a multi-instrumentalist, writer, and producer based in Los Angeles, currently on tour with The Marías. In our conversation, Gabe shared how mindfulness practices like meditation and staying connected to his daily routines fuel his creativity—from crafting music that mirrors a perfect day outdoors to exploring new musical territories in his solo work.
How are you today? Can you introduce yourself and what's currently occupying your attention?
Things are going well today! My name is Gabe Steiner, and I’m a multi-instrumentalist based in Los Angeles. I’m currently on tour with The Marías, and aside from that, I do various studio work as an instrumentalist and writer/producer.
Can you tell us a bit about this playlist?
This playlist is a mix of songs that rarely fail to put me in a good mood, and I can pretty much put it on anywhere. I'd say most of the tracks have been released in the past five years, and it’s a low-key mix of indie, hip-hop, and R&B.
Are there any songs or albums that define important moments in your life? How do these influences show up in your work?
Honestly, many of the songs on this playlist have been on repeat at different points over the past few years. While I wouldn’t say they’re tied to specific moments in my life, each one helps me get into a positive and inspiring frame of mind when I listen to it. I love how these tracks evoke certain feelings and help me tap into that same emotional space when creating.
What sparks your interest the most when creating? Do you have a go-to source of inspiration?
What sparks my interest most is hearing something that immediately sets a mood or elicits an emotion. I often listen to a track on repeat, then spend the next few sessions trying to create something that gives me a similar feeling. It doesn’t have to sound the same sonically, just something that hits the same emotional note.
As an artist, how do you stay grounded? Are there specific practices or routines that help you balance your mental, physical, and spiritual health?
The best way I stay grounded is by sticking to my daily routine. It’s simple, really: when I meditate, work out, sleep enough, and spend quality time with friends and family, I have more to give to my work. When my physical and mental health is in check, I feel more confident, creative, and alive.
What’s your connection to nature like? Are there elements of the natural world or your current environment that resonate with your art or music?
Ah, nature—I definitely love it, but I don’t get out to it as much as I’d like. I go on hikes near my home a few times a week, but I don’t get to nature outside of LA too often. I guess you could say I like to make music that feels like a beautiful day outside—peaceful and expansive.
Where do you see yourself taking your art in the next few years? Are there any new territories you’re eager or anxious to explore?
Honestly, the future is wide open right now. I’m in a transition period, figuring out my next project and sound. It’s exciting! I’ve been deeply influenced by some of the music in this playlist, and I’m really into combining all the different sounds I’m hearing in the world around me.
How have psychedelics or other forms of mindfulness influenced your perspective on creativity or life? Can you share a particularly transformative experience?
I don’t have a specific story or experience with psychedelics in my creative process, but I’ve enjoyed microdosing here and there while performing. I like tapping into something outside of myself, especially in a public setting. It offers a little shift in perspective that can be refreshing. That said I have been taking psychedelics, specifically mushrooms, since I was a young adult and have had some truly memorable listening experiences.
