In the vibrant, ever-evolving world of indie rock, few stories are as uniquely woven with the threads of perseverance, cultural fusion, and creative disruption as that of Patrick Lew. Born in San Francisco to a Chinese father and Japanese mother, Patrick’s music journey has been shaped not only by his love for grunge, punk, and J-Rock but by his unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. Today, the Patrick Lew Band (PLB) stands as a testament to the power of determination, individuality, and artistic vision, redefining the landscape of indie music.
Origin and Mission: A Cultural Fusion and Musical Foundation
Patrick Lew’s story begins in the culturally rich environment of San Francisco. Raised amidst the diverse influences of East Asian pop and Western rock, Patrick was exposed to a musical spectrum that was as vast as it was varied. From the haunting riffs of Nirvana to the melody of The Beatles, his early love for music was as eclectic as his cultural background. Growing up with Chinese and Japanese roots, he often felt the tension of navigating between two worlds. This duality would go on to shape his music, which blends the rawness of punk and grunge with the infectious energy of J-Pop and the free-spiritedness of East Asian culture.
At 15, Patrick began experimenting with music, recording in his bedroom with a Tascam 4-track recorder gifted by his mother. It was here that the seeds of what would become the Patrick Lew Band (PLB) were planted, forming an integral part of his artistic evolution. From the very beginning, his approach was unique: independent, experimental, and committed to raw, authentic sound. What started as a passion project would soon evolve into a significant force in the underground music scene.
The Rise of the Patrick Lew Band: Garage Punk to Virtual Rock Phenomenon
The true inception of PLB came in 2001, during a time when garage punk and DIY ethos were at the forefront of the indie music movement. With early albums like Curb Your Wild Life, Let It Rise, and Against, Patrick captured the riotous energy of his youth, infusing the music with a rawness and sincerity that made his sound unmistakable. These albums served as a call to arms for anyone who ever felt like an outsider, with lyrics that spoke directly to the hearts of the disillusioned.
But it wasn’t just the music that set PLB apart—it was Patrick’s willingness to innovate. As streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music gained prominence, PLB transitioned into a virtual band, incorporating electronic and experimental elements that captured the essence of the digital age. This shift marked a turning point in the band's trajectory. The idea of a virtual band wasn’t new, but Patrick's execution was. He introduced a creative concept in 2015 that would further distinguish PLB: the cross-dressing alter ego, designed by Madeline Lew, which added a layer of intrigue to the band’s identity. This move pushed PLB into new territory, gaining attention from listeners around the world.
By this time, PLB’s music had spread to more than 50 countries, resonating with a diverse global audience. It was a breakthrough moment, not just for Patrick but for independent artists everywhere. PLB had successfully built an international following without the backing of a major label—a feat that remains a true testament to Patrick’s creative vision and DIY ethos.
Achievements and Impact: A Legacy Built on Persistence
Patrick Lew’s journey is marked by numerous accomplishments that speak to his talent and influence in the music world. One of the most notable recognitions came in the form of his induction into CSU East Bay's 40 Under 40 Hall of Fame. As the first Japanese-American male to receive this honor, Patrick became a trailblazer in the indie music scene, further cementing his role as a cultural icon. This was followed by an Akademia Music Award in 2016 for his track “Game Changer,” which stood as a powerful example of his unique fusion of experimental rock.
In addition to these accolades, Patrick’s music has been featured in prominent media outlets such as Ascendant Magazine, and his appearances in TV shows like The Man in the High Castle and White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch showcased his growing presence beyond just music. Yet despite these accomplishments, Patrick remains deeply grounded in the ethos that defines his work: a relentless pursuit of artistic freedom and an unshakable commitment to his craft.
Lewnatic: Pushing Boundaries, Exploring New Horizons
In 2019, Patrick embarked on a new musical journey with the creation of Lewnatic, a project that would take his sound even further. Initially conceived as a rap-metal venture, Lewnatic soon morphed into a vibrant rock band influenced by a blend of City Pop, anime, and punk rock. The project’s evolution showcases Patrick’s unyielding desire to push the boundaries of his musical identity, constantly seeking new sounds, styles, and ways to connect with fans.
One of Lewnatic’s biggest milestones came when they performed at DNA Lounge in San Francisco, a venue synonymous with the city’s rich musical history. This performance was a significant step in building the band's presence within the indie rock community and reaffirmed Patrick’s commitment to live performances, a cornerstone of his artistic vision.
Lewnatic also saw a major collaboration with Bentley Records, releasing the album Rapid Fire in 2022. The record was met with critical acclaim and further solidified Patrick’s status as an innovative force in the rock music landscape. Through Lewnatic, Patrick was able to introduce new audiences to his music, transcending the boundaries of traditional rock and venturing into new, unexplored territories.
Challenges and Resilience: Overcoming Adversity and Redefining the Music Industry
Patrick’s path to success has not been without its challenges. As an ethnic minority in rock music, Patrick has faced barriers that many artists never encounter. But rather than being deterred, he used these obstacles as fuel for his creativity. His experience as a person of color in the rock world has shaped his identity and driven his mission to break stereotypes and create music that speaks to a global audience. Through his work, Patrick has become a beacon for other artists, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, showing that success in the music industry is not reserved for the mainstream.
A Legacy of Innovation: The Future of Patrick Lew Band
As Patrick Lew Band celebrates its 20th year in the industry, Patrick’s commitment to innovation and musical exploration shows no signs of slowing down. His ability to reinvent himself, constantly adapt to new trends, and challenge musical conventions has ensured that PLB remains a relevant and influential force in indie rock. Whether through self-recorded albums, collaborations, or live performances, Patrick continues to make waves in the industry and inspire a new generation of musicians.
Call to Action:
Explore the world of Patrick Lew Band and discover the unique sounds, stories, and creative vision that have propelled Patrick to the forefront of indie rock. Dive into the music, watch the videos, and connect with this groundbreaking artist who continues to redefine what it means to be independent in today’s music world. For more, visit his Linktree or follow him on Instagram, TikTok, and Spotify.
