After cementing himself with his stunning debut EP 'Dark Light' last year, US singer-songwriter Lance Rodriguez has now returned to unveil his eagerly-awaited debut album 'EMPATH'.
Capturing more of that rich and riveting pop aesthetic he has built for himself since he first emerged, 'EMPATH' makes for a beautifully warm and endearing listen. Filled with smooth and tender textures, a breezy atmosphere, and his own captivating vocals leading the charge, he is continuing his ascent as one of the more mesmerising names on the rise right now.
So with the new album available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has inspired him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The voice, I’ve been singing since before I could remember.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Classic rock, The Eagles, Journey, Lynyrd Skynyrd, etc. Alt Pop of it’s time, which was a lot of John Mayer, Jack Johnson (kinda more beach pop), in addition to Rap/R&B side as well like Drake, Kanye West, etc.
What was the first album you remember owning?
ACDC - Angus Young was the reason I got into guitar.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Night Moves - Bob Seger
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not pausing life. I need the ups and downs, the emotion provoked is what inspires and fuels my writing. I’ve spent my whole life working at opening myself up as a channel for inspiration to speak through. These days it feels like a healthy relationship has been established with that feeling and I’m able to enact this flow state on command.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Jimi Hendrix, Sam Tompkins, and Kehlani.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
John Mayer
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The ability to source inspiration, consciously & subconsciously, and then convey it in a form to the listener in a way that can provoke emotion, trigger memories, and create new ones. Essentially, helping and being a part of the listeners life and journey.
And what is the most frustrating part?
I only get frustrated when I lose sight of patience leading the way. Don’t get me wrong, I’m MOVING but some things just take time. I’ve begun to understand and see that over the recent years.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Get out of the way of yourself and allow yourself to further evolve.
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Lance Rodriguez's debut album 'EMPATH' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.