Sleep Tapes, led by the talented Noah Sturm, is an indie project that has been carving out its place in the alternative music scene with hauntingly beautiful soundscapes that transport listeners into dream-like realms. Known for his ability to blend emotion with minimalist melodies, Sturm’s work creates an atmosphere that feels intimate and transcendent.
The name Sleep Tapes itself evokes the quiet magic of music that lulls you into deep introspection, much like the mixtapes Sturm made as a child to help him fall asleep. His raw, unpolished sound captures a sincerity that resonates deeply with fans looking for something real in a world full of noise. We had the chance to sit down with Noah and take a peek into his world in an exclusive interview:
Why did you name your music project Sleep Tapes?
When I was a kid, I used to make these mixed cassette tapes to fall asleep to. They weren’t necessarily slow or calming songs, but they opened up my imagination. They had vivid imagery that helped me drift off. The name is a reminder to myself to make songs that take listeners somewhere else, just like those tapes did for me.
Who are your main inspirations?
My inspirations are always changing. When I was younger, it was artists like James Taylor and Jackson Browne, who made me want to play guitar and sing. Now, I find inspiration not just in music but in anything artistic—anything that reminds me how much I enjoy being creative.
When did you start playing music, and why?
I started playing guitar when I was 13 or 14, but I’d wanted to play for as long as I can remember. I don’t know exactly why—it just felt like that’s what I was supposed to do.
What are the best venues you’ve played so far?
I enjoy more unconventional venues, like playing in someone’s living room or backyard. I haven’t played many big venues, and all the bar gigs tend to blur together. But the smaller, more intimate shows offer a stronger connection with the audience, which I love.
Where are you from, and how old are you?
I’m 26. I was born in Ohio, spent some time in Florida, and then moved to Los Angeles when I was 10. I’ve moved around a lot since then, though.
What’s the most fantastic thing that has ever happened to you?
It’s hard to say. So many great things have happened because of music. Since I’m doing everything on my own, every little success feels like the best thing ever.
What’s your favorite song to play live?
Probably “What Does Not Belong To You.” It has a way of carrying itself, and I always feel like I’m connecting with the room when I play it. It’s honest, and I think people can feel that.
If you could meet one person from any time in history, who would it be and why?
I had a great uncle who looked a lot like me. I’d love to meet him and see if we’d have one of those weird moments like in Back to the Future.
What are your dreams for the future of Sleep Tapes?
I just want to reach more people and keep making better music. My goal is always to improve and grow as an artist.
Have you been on tour yet, and if not, would you like to?
I haven’t toured in the traditional sense, but I love to travel and play shows wherever I go. I think a tour is inevitable at some point.
What’s your favorite thing to do besides music?
I also enjoy painting. I’ve taken a break from it lately, but I just bought some new canvases, so I’ll be getting back into it soon.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s happened at one of your shows?
I was playing at a bar, and we were rotating songs with a few other musicians. This old drunk guy kept trying to sneak into the rotation. We eventually let him have the mic, and it turned into pure chaos—especially since he kept playing the same song over and over.
What do you want to get out of music?
There’s something about making music that gives me a feeling I can’t get from anything else. It’s all about telling a story and creating an experience, and that’s really all I’ve ever wanted from it.
When will you be in the studio next?
I record everything at home. Right now, I’m working on a few songs. I’m always writing or recording something.
What’s your best attribute, both personally and musically?
I’d say my best attribute is my earnestness. I put a lot of effort into what I do, and I make sure every part of a song means something. There’s no filler.
What do you want to accomplish with your music before you die?
I’d love to be able to connect with musicians from all over the world and make music on a bigger scale. For me, the real reward of being a musician is being able to do this all the time.
So that’s all folks, a fantastic musician and an even better guy, now go out and check out his funky tunes today! the first link is to his song white cloud and the the second is to his song what does not belong to you which as we all know is his favorite to play so check em out