Robert DeLong has always carved his own path in the music world, blending electronic production with heartfelt storytelling and a fearless sense of experimentation. From festival stages to intimate studio sessions, his music captures a unique balance of energy, emotion, and ingenuity.
We caught up with DeLong this week and he opens up about his new single “The Fool Me Once”, life in Los Angeles, favorite travel adventures, and what inspires him as he continues to write, produce, and prepare for the next chapter of his career.
You recently released a new song, “The Fool Me Once.” Can you tell us about the story behind it?
Sure! That one was written right at the start of the pandemic. I actually wrote it on a banjo, which is pretty unusual for me, but I had one lying around. It’s kind of an atypical song for me—more of a cute, romantic tune. I literally picked up the banjo, played some chords, started singing, and wrote it down. Twenty minutes later, the song was done. For my deluxe record, I recorded it in a few different ways—one with full production, synthesizers, drums, and then a stripped-down version with banjo and pedal steel. It’s semi-autobiographical, little snippets of early-stage romances.
Do you have any plans for touring soon?
Nothing on the books right now. I’ve been in studio mode, working on my own music and producing for other artists. But I’ll definitely get back on the road.
You live in LA. What does your perfect day there look like?
I live in Silverlake. Most of my perfect days are pretty routine: wake up, make a healthy breakfast, drink coffee from Cappuccino Organic Co., clean up a bit, get my studio ready, respond to emails, then go for a trail run—Griffith Park or Angeles Crest Forest if I have more time. After that, I’ll work in the studio for 4–6 hours, take a walk, hang out with my girlfriend or housemate, go back for another three hours of music, then maybe hit a bar or play ping pong in the backyard before bed.
Has a specific place ever inspired a song?
Absolutely. For example, “Isabel Street” was inspired by time spent in South Africa during a tour in 2013. I was listening to a lot of Paul Simon, and those influences combined to create a kind of love letter to my Mount Washington neighborhood in LA.
Are there any travel destinations still on your bucket list?
Plenty! I’ve never been to Japan, which I’ve booked for next year. I love the music and culture there, and I have friends who spend time there. Also, I’ve never been anywhere in South America—so that’s an entire continent to explore.
What’s your craziest travel story?
One wild stretch was back in 2013. I played Lollapalooza in Chicago at 3 p.m., then flew to LA for an X Games show that evening, got home at 2 a.m., and left at 4 a.m. for another Chicago show with Matt & Kim. Three shows in 36 hours, and two cities in one day—it was absolute chaos. I barely remember that final show, but it’s a fun story to look back on.
Let’s do some rapid-fire questions.
Must-pack travel item?
Camelbak and running shoes.
Window or aisle seat?
Window. I sleep on planes.
Favorite airport snack?
Bloody Mary and dessert.
Long flight or long drive?
Long drive.
First thing you do in a new hotel room?
Open all the drawers. You never know what cool stuff someone left behind. It’s especially fun in AirBnbs.
Cold or hot weather?
Hot.
City with the best vibes?
LA. I know people have opinions about that, but it’s my pick.
What’s inspiring you right now, and what are your plans for 2026?
I’ve been really into dub lately, and I’ve been writing these little “cowboy songs” on acoustic guitar that end up with full production. Right now, it’s all about writing, producing for others, and locking in the studio. Once I have a batch of new work, I’ll get back on the road and play for everyone. Just keeping busy, making music, and staying inspired. Can’t wait to share what’s next.