Having spent the last few years working in a far more club-friendly aesthetic, LA-based artist and producer LEADR has now adopted a more lofty and atmospheric direction as he returns with his latest single '3am'.
Working alongside fellow producer Wundr and lyricist Katie Hargrove, '3am' is a wonderfully warm and uplifting lo-fi release that looks to blend the world of folk-pop and electronica. With a wistfully played guitar intertwined with powerful and pulsing beats, his newest offering brings a whole new dimension to his passionate sound.
So with his new single now doing the rounds, we sat down with the artist to find out more about his earliest beginnings and what has inspired him over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The voice.
What has been the most prominent inspiration behind your music so far?
Growing up in the 90s has had a strong influence on my own story and my sound. What’s inspired me are the lessons I learned when I was a teen that I’m keen on sharing with others.
What kind of music did you love as a teenager?
Pop music. Not gonna lie, I was obsessed with Britney Spears.
Can you remember the first song that made you want to pursue a life in music?
No Doubt - 'Don’t Speak'. I remember hearing the song on the radio, falling instantly in love with it, and learning it word for word and then realizing that I could sing!
When you wake up in the morning, what kind of music do you like to listen to?
I like to listen to mediation music. I usually open Spotify and play the 'Peaceful Meditation' playlist. It makes me feel good before I start my day.
How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?
Most of them because the people closest to me have helped make me who I am today.
What has been the most memorable moment in your career so far?
Performing for LGBTQ youth at LA’s Models of Pride conference. The love and enthusiasm from the audience was special.
Outside of music, what is your biggest passion?
I love to cook all kinds of food and be creative with it. It makes me feel good to see my loved ones enjoy my food.
If you weren’t a musician, what other path do you think you might have taken?
I would love to own a cafe. When I went to Paris I fell in love with cafe culture and how people bond over cups of coffee.
And what advice would you give to other musicians looking to stay productive through the coronavirus lockdown?
I would say keep creating, but, also use this time to breathe and enjoy yourself. Don’t feel pressured.
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LEADR and Wundr's latest single '3am' is available to stream and download now. Have a listen to it in the player below.