An Interview with John “FEELSOUL” Futrell

John “FEELSOUL” Futrell is an artist and musician known for blending evocative storytelling with innovative soundscapes. Drawing inspiration from life’s raw emotions and experiences, their work transcends genres, creating a unique auditory and emotional journey for listeners. With a passion for authenticity and creativity, FEELSOUL continues to captivate audiences worldwide through their art and music.

What inspired you to start writing this book?

I was really inspired by the ups and downs of my life and my journey as an artist and human being. I wanted to speak about some of the laws or principles I follow through my art and life blending the two. I believe we are spiritual beings having a human experience and that art is part of that. Overall creativity is part of that.

Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

So usually I’m very open and liberated when picking a title or even writing a body of work. This time around I restricted myself to the concept of only 14 spiritual laws that I could put together for my concept. I started there, and used the 14 since my birthday is the 14th, and didn’t want the book to be authoritative. So then you get Universal, and it is a Blueprint—The Universal Blueprint. Purpose, creative power and the purpose of that.

Describe your dream book cover.

I’m really big into design and aesthetic so for me it would be designed like a luxury bag or box. Carefully crafted to embody the art.

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

Well, my own music of course since I make music. Definitely jazz trio-based and heavily piano-based.

What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?

Usually I try not to read anything except for articles and draw from my own degrees and coursework. I try to remain as open to any ideas I have as possible. I will read for inspiration when deemed necessary but I never want to be dictated in my art.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I do everything from paint to make music, design clothes and much more. I go where my creativity takes me. I hold three degrees and create music under the name FEELSOUL. I used to go by J.Ransom.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

I am really influenced by so much, so it would take me all day. But everything from Jiddhu Krishnamurti to James Baldwin, to George Condo to Kanye West, Nas and Jay-Z and Prince. My influences are really all over the place.

Where is your favorite place to write?

Honestly anywhere inspiration strikes. I have really deep-dived into using my phone to write. Then I’ll transfer it. I write down songs, poems, thoughts and concepts. A lot on the go.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

There exist nothing that is perfect and that goes for my work. I want the reader to take away expansion, growth and possibility.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.