Joshua Lewis is embarking on wonderful creative journey with his multi-platform endeavor called NONVIOLENCE. In getting to know Josh and his work, I have become more and more impressed by both his positive energy and his painstaking attention to detail when it comes to his artistic projects.  The NONVIOLENCE RocketHub campaign is chalked full of passion and talent - the video alone is quite captivating indeed. I recently had the pleasure to catch up with Josh and chat about the creative process and his latest project with NONVIOLENCE.

What was the inspiration to your latest musical project with Non-Violence?  Why is it important to you?

The inspiration for NONVIOLENCE was the culmination of all my creative and artistic experiences, throughout the entirety of my life thus far. Growing up in a very free-spirited, creative home as a child, always being encouraged to do something good for the benefit of those around oneself. Living in NYC for the past handful of years, has also greatly created an urgency to solidify my artistic output. For me, the importance lie simply in the universal uproar we seem to be experiencing right now. Whether it's here in America, or in Zimbabwe, there's obvious a crisis over what's "coming next," what's just, what's safe. The age of ethics is upon us. There's never been a more important time to generate community, and a positive outlook on our future.

I like the positive energy and vibe of your creative work a lot - and I know I'm not the only one.  How are you reaching out to your fans? How has the response been? 

For me, reaching out to 'fans' has always been a very personable interaction. Throughout years and years of going to shows, interacting on the web, or random encounters with artists that I admire, It seems that 50% of the outreach that I've received (as a fan) is genuine and heartfelt, and 50% has been crass. I'd like to think that by (literally) staying up 'til sunrise, chatting with supporters, and exchanging lengthly, in-depth letters are just two ways of generating an unprecedented interaction and love affair with each individual fan. So far the responses have been wonderful, and quite surreal. I'd say it's all off to a great start, and people are aware that this movement is just as much about them as it is about me, my band, my sis, or my baby cousins.

Thanks for the honest insights.  What has it been like as a crowdfunding pioneer in music world?

It's been great to feel like a pioneer in the crowdfunding realm of music. I believe that those behind Rockethub, and the general platform for all that is crowdfunding, are super intelligent, authentic, and just what the creative communities need more of. Though it's apparent that a large majority of the fans, supporters, and networks are still trying to wrap their heads around how exactly the whole process functions. In any web oriented exchange of finances it's obvious that theirs lots of skepticism, but with time, I'm sure that all will see it's the most direct and promising way to support the art you believe in.

Mahalo for the good words Josh. In terms of sharing info with the community, what advice would you give to Creatives looking to crowdfund their projects? 

I'd encourage future crowdfunders to know exactly what they're trying to say with their work. What is it about your project that really demands support in getting it out there? How are you attempting to differentiate yourself from the endless sea of aspiring creative-types? Why is it special, are you truly committed to bringing positive, genuine works of art into the world? Know yourself, let yourself be transparent, and allow your supporters the most direct and sincere outlook on what you're all about.

Josh, we greatly appreciate your talents and energy - and wish you all the best in your creative and artistic pursuits.

Brian Meece