America’s favorite dating franchise recently received a musical upgrade—but not every couple struck a perfect chord. The Bachelor Presents: Listen to Your Heart featured 20 single men and women who took part in music-focused Bachelor dates across the country, all while living together under the same roof. The strongest relationships then moved on to perform in live vocal competitions in front of the industry’s leading artists, including Kesha, Toni Braxton and Andy Grammer. Each week, one couple was ruthlessly knocked out, based upon romantic connection and vocal ability, until one duo remained, receiving the chance to work with a producer and tour with original songs. R&B soul-pop artist Sheridan Reed captured fans’ hearts with his long hair, strong vocal tone and dedication to love amid the opportunity to further his career. Below, he reveals what the experience was like for him and hints at upcoming music plans.

When did you first develop your passion for music?

I’ve had a passion for music since I was very young. I always loved to sing, even though I most definitely didn’t have an ear for it, and I learned my first instrument when I was about ten years old. It wasn’t until years later that I picked up a guitar, and years after that, I started writing.


How would you describe the style of your music?

It’s a bit difficult to pin down my style of music, but that’s also something I take pride in. I definitely want to make it accessible, so I think it’s in the overarching genre of pop with alternative R&B, modern trap, hip-hop, old-school Motown and soul mixed in. 


Where do you draw inspiration from when songwriting?

I almost always have written as a form of catharsis. It helps me work through issues, feelings or experiences that I’m going through and trying to process and deal with. This year, though, I’ve also started to put myself into someone else's shoes or situation and write through empathy as well.


Why did you decide to join the cast of The Bachelor Presents: Listen to Your Heart?

I’d recently gotten out of a relationship, which was a big learning experience for me. It was after a stretch of years living the single life, and it made me realize that I was finally in a spot where I felt ready for something genuine and lasting. When I received the opportunity to join the cast of Listen to Your Heart, I knew that it had the potential to deliver what I wanted. I’d played music with other musicians before and knew how creating together can bring you closer, but I’d never been in a relationship with a musician because I wasn’t ready. When I went on the show, I finally felt like I was prepared. It was a unique experience that provided that chance for me, and it was a chance I was willing to take.

What surprised you the most during your experience?

I was blown away by how down-to-earth, humble and warm the entire cast was with each other. We genuinely built friendships that’ll last a lifetime.


What’s one thing people may not know about being a part of the Bachelor franchise?

The audience didn’t get to see, but the mornings often started off with several of us jamming and playing music for each other!


Fans were not only interested in your songs but your fashion choices as well. How would you describe your personal style?

My style definitely has urban roots and is influenced by the south, but I also love dressing more outgoing. I like standing out, but I also don’t want to be the very center of attention. I’ll typically opt for clean and styled looks: button-up, short sleeve shirts or 60s tees and skinny jeans. I compliment my outfits with a hat and different rings I’ve picked up from all over the world.


What was your favorite part about performing with Julia Rae, your partner during the show?

The best part of performing with Julia was having that connection, which really drew us together when we performed and made me believe in her ability to do what she does best. 

Which judge were you most excited to see?

Jason Mraz! I remember when he first started getting a lot of notoriety. I looked him up and found videos of him performing, stripped down with just one other vocalist, and I was astounded by his writing and voice. It was incredible to not only perform for him but get positive feedback.

Looking back on the experience, do you have any regrets?

I don’t have any regrets. I’m proud of how I handled things and stayed true to myself.


Tell us a bit about your recent song release, which was previewed during your last episode on Listen to Your Heart.

“Coming Back” was a really unique song for me. During my last day on the show, while Julia was on a date with Brandon [Mills], I sat at the grand piano and wrote it. I was just trying to get out of my own head and put what I was feeling into a song: I was thinking about how she wouldn’t be choosing me, yet I was still hoping that she would against the odds. It was a really vulnerable experience and something I felt a lot of people could relate to, which is why I ultimately decided to release the single. I also love how the audience was able to witness my entire creative process, from connecting to working through hardships to inspiration to creation.


What are your future plans as an artist?

I have several more releases planned—my next single is actually only three weeks away.  With everything from my SXSW shows to a Black Pumas performance at Stubb’s being canceled, the timing of Listen to Your Heart was really serendipitous for me. We’d already planned out all of these songs since last year for releases. I’ll also be launching new merchandise and music videos until I can safely perform and tour again. 

Follow Sheridan on Social Media:

Instagram: @sheridanreed 

Twitter: @sheridanmusic

Facebook: @sheridanreedmusic

Website: www.sheridanreed.com

Photo Credit: ABC Press