Written by Julianne Unger

We recently got to discuss all things music, life and future projects with up and coming singer-songwriter, Val Mooty. Playing shows around DFW, including his upcoming So Far Sounds show on September 28th, Mooty is paving his path and gaining fans with his music which celebrates youth, life and living in the moment. 

Julianne: So who is Val Mooty? Tell me about you:

Val: I’m a senior in high school and I graduate this coming spring. I’ve been playing guitar since I was 11 years old. I’ve been singing for 2 years now so that’s more recent but it’s been a fun journey so far. 

Julianne: What made you decide to pursue a career in music? Was it a family influence or was it something else that got you into it?: 

Val: My family has always been supportive of me and stressed that they want me to do whatever it is that makes me happy. Music is the thing that I found. No one in my family really does music and I’m loving kind of taking my own path. 

Julianne: So you said that music is your “thing”. Who would you say inspires you musically?:

Val: I love Justin Timberlake and Bruno Mars. Right now I’ve been really into to Frank Ocean and Daniel Caesar. I love just listening to a lot of different things and just getting inspired.  

Julianne: You recently released a four song EP titled “One Touch”. Tell me about the process behind creating that. What inspired you to create the songs on the project?:

Val: We started the project last November but with school it’s hard to get in the studio all the time. But when I have time after school I head to the studio in Lakewood and get with my producer and creative team and sit down and brainstorm topics and start writing the songs. This EP for me is inspired by the idea of just enjoying life. I wanted it to have a more upbeat persona and just show who I am and where I am in my life. 

Julianne: So would you say that each song on the project represents different emotions and phases of life? Like love, heartbreak and the celebration of things like being young and personal growth?

Val: You can only write about what you know. For me it’s just growing up and making the most of that. The songs on the EP really are like that. Especially “Moments”. That’s my favorite on the project. Whether it’s with my friends or just one person I’m just really focusing on celebrating each moment. 

Julianne: What do you see for yourself in the coming year? Can we expecting a music video or an album? 

Val: I’ll be having a couple songs coming out in the next year. Hopefully next Spring or Summer I’ll have 6 or 7 more songs ready to come out. I’d definitely love to do a music video for this EP so we’ll see what happens with that!   

Talking with Val was a truly enjoyable experience. Funny and down to earth this 18 year old musician has a big future ahead of him. From his relatable lyrics to catchy hooks and melodies, Val Mooty is a name you want to remember. 

Currently in his senior year of high school, Val balances his time from between the studio, studying and football field. Keeping the same motivation across the board, he stressed that from a young age that when he starts something he completely commits to it; and that’s evident when you hear him talk about his passions and future plans. 

In only one listen his single, “Love is Queen”, will absolutely get stuck in your head and find its way onto your summer playlist. If you’re looking to catch him live, be sure to follow him on social media at @ValMooty for all shows and music updates.