Tripping Jupiter isn’t just a band—it’s a bold, glitter-dusted declaration that music and identity are meant to live beyond the lines. At its heart is Madstone Rowan (he/they/them), a New York City–based vocalist, keyboardist, and songwriter who is two parts groove, one part empowerment, with a shimmering spritz of glam. Blending classic glam rock and pop with sleek modern production, Tripping Jupiter crafts songs that feel both timeless and urgently of the moment.
Madstone fully inhabits the look, the sound, and the social voice of the project, embracing a “beyond the binary” identity that refuses to bow to societal rules or self-imposed limits. The result is barrier-free freedom—music and visuals that channel modern rock energy through retro-pop sensibilities, all while inviting listeners to explore their own truth. “For us, music and life should have no limits,” Madstone explains. That ethos burns through in their lyrics: “So shake your head and take your bets, ’cause this ain’t over yet. I don’t care if I burn in my desire. It’s only fire.”
What first sparked your passion for music?
I have had a passion for music for as long as I can remember. When I was a little kid I would write songs in my head and sing them. My parents sang in the church choir and there was always music in my house. When I finally started taking piano lessons at 9 years old – which I begged for – there was no looking back.
Who were your earliest musical inspirations?
My dad was a big country music fan. The old stuff – Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Sr., Charlie Pride – and that music was always playing in my house when I grew up. I loved it. When I became a teenager, it was KISS and Bowie. I was obsessed. Maybe the makeup thing came from that – but I knew then what I wanted to do.
How would you describe your sound and style?
I push back against genre, I push back against the generic. I don’t want to sound like anyone else. I’m influenced by artists’ approaches to music more so than their sound. I love David Bowie’s approach to art – be weird, be wonderful, don’t play to the gallery. Same with Gaga. I’m also influenced by painters – I love art. I would look at a Max Ernst painting, or something by Pacabia and think “I want my music to sound like that looks”.
How did the pandemic shape your writing or performing?
I hadn’t been seriously writing for years. The pandemic gave me a lot of time to think. I realized I was ignoring a big part of myself by not writing – so I started what’s called Music Mentor sessions with Barb Morrison, who eventually because my producer. Working with Barb every week on zoom really opened m up musically, and then the songs just flowed. I wrote and recorded a 13 song album during the pandemic. That was the birth of Tripping Jupiter.
What’s your favorite song to perform live, and why?
That’s like asking me what my favorite day of Summer is. All of them. But if I had to say one, it would be We Are Starlight off our debut album. It’s always our show closer.
Which musicians do you admire most?
Anyone who can make a living from it. I really admire Bowie, Gaga, Leonard Cohen and Iggy – they sound like no one else and I respect the careers that they built.
What do you enjoy most about being an artist?
Who said it was enjoyable? I mean, I love performing live – and I love when I finish recording a song and I listen to it and it sounds amazing. But having an artist’s brain and heart is not a thing you have or do because it’s enjoyable, it’s somewhat irrational. Maybe that’s what I like about it, the irrationality.
Who’s currently on your playlist?
Florence and the Machine, Gaga, Royal Otis, Portugal the Man, Tame Impala, Chappell Roan, St. Vincent.
Do you enjoy the recording and production side of things?
I love being in the recording studio. I’m lucky to have an amazing production team – Barb Morrison (they/them) and Bart Schoudel. Barb has written and produced for Blondie (among others) and Barb just sets the tone in the studio. I walked into the studio for the new sessions this year and Barb just threw their hands up and shouted my name – it’s a beautiful, fun atmosphere. If I could be in the studio every day I would. And Bart does vocal production for some of the most popular voices out there today – like Selena Gomez, Camilla Cabello – he’s also worked with Beyonce and Gaga. So I mean I have to pinch myself to remind myself it’s real that I am working with such amazing producers.
Do you have any upcoming releases, videos, or shows?
Yes! We’ve recorded a bunch of new music in 2025 and will be releasing a new song every 5 or 6 weeks or so for at least the next year. Our first new release just came out a little over a week ago – Crack That Drum.
???? Fun & Personality
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Having a rewind button – maybe just 30 seconds – so I can go back and not say that thing I probably shouldn’t have just said.
You’re stranded on a deserted island — which two nonessential items would you want?
A pad and pen to write and draw (*thinking of that as one item) and bubbles. So I could blow bubbles when I’m bored.
If money wasn’t an issue, what job would you still want to do?
Music, music, music!
Tell us your best joke.
Two atoms are walking down the street. One of them loses an electron. Their friend says “Are you okay?”, they respond “Yes”. The friend says “Are you sure?”, the atom says “I’m positive.”
Are you more of a cat person or a dog person?
Dog. And not one of those cute little dogs you can put in a purse.
What would be the theme song of your life?
Changes by Bowie
What’s your most treasured piece of clothing?
An amazing black lace shawl that Meredith, who dances when Tripping Jupiter performs live, gave me. I wore it to Gaga’s Mayhem Ball performance at MSG. People offered me money for it.
