INTERVIEW: Larry Gordon

INTERVIEW:

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 Larry Gordon

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I was eager to find out more concerning…

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Larry Gordon’s new single, Running Away. It is also his debut and a tremendous offering that promises future brilliance. Gordon discusses working with Curb Records and whether we can see any new material before 2018; how he got started in the music business – and how it feels being compared to the likes of Justin Timberlake.

Gordon tells me about his tour with Akon – and icon he is looking forward to hitting the road with – and how it feels seeing his music used on T.V. and film; the artists/sounds he was raised on – and whether the U.S. artist is looking forward to visiting the U.K. for the first time.

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Hi, Larry. How are you? How has your week been?

My week has been good - and very hectic at the same time. I have been super-excited about experiencing the U.K. for the first time.

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

My name is Larry Gordon. I am a Pop artist who loves music. I write, perform and produce songs that allow you to zone-out and let the music consume you...

I call it ‘feel-good’ music.

Running Away is your debut single. Has it been a long process putting the song together – or has it gelled quite easily?

Running Away actually came together in a unique way. The chorus of the song came first and everything else just fell in line from there.

Curb Records is who you are signed to. What is it like working alongside them?

Curb Records is a very supportive company with an amazing staff. They always push you to be better. With the new Pop division at Curb Records; I’m at the right place at the right time. All the hard work I’ve done over the years is making the dream a reality as a songwriter and artist at the label.

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What comes next in terms of music? Is there an E.P. afoot?

I’ll continue to perform, produce and write for myself and co-write with other artists.

Yes, an E.P. is scheduled for release late-2017 or early-2018.

What compelled your decision to come into music? Was it something you have wanted since you were small?

I’ve been in and around music since I can remember. So, I guess you can say that I’ve wanted this since childhood. Also, seeing my father and mother entertain/perform nationally and abroad compelled me to be in the music business.

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You have garnered comparisons to the likes of Justin Timberlake. Is it quite daunting being linked to an artist like that?

To be honest, I am extremely humbled to be compared to someone of his magnitude. He is an amazing musician and writer.

I believe your music has already been featured in film and T.V. How did you get involved in that side of the business and what is it like hearing your song on the screen?

Yes. The songs End of the World and MV were featured on Love & Hip Hop New York and Los Angeles. The same songs were also featured in two movies: Yoga Hosier (ft. Johnny Deep) and Hoovey - which is an inspirational sports story. Film and television are two areas that I have always been interested in.

Any time that I am writing, it is (with) the intention that the song will be used in multiple areas of the industry. 

Tell me about some of the artists you were raised on…

Well. My parents had an eighteen-piece orchestra/show-band that I grew up performing in. So, I was exposed to a variety of music genres such as Big Band, Country; Rock, Gospel; Jazz, R&B; Rap and so on.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Kehlani

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Kehlani, Demi Lovato; Migos and Bryson Tiller.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Migos

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Michael Jackson Bad

Because it has so many classic records on this album. He opened the gateway for you to get lost in the ‘moments’ of each song.

He definitely gave you an experience. 

Usher Confessions

This is definitely an album you let play from beginning to end. To me, it is, hands-down, one of the best-crafted albums of all time. Each song had its own individual story or situation that you could relate to.

Lil' Larry Lybeatrics

This was the first album I ever wrote - and I did it all by myself. The reason it is so close to me, when I listen to each song, it takes me back to the place where it all started - and the main reason why I wanted to become a songwriter, artist/entertainer and producer.

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What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Don’t put yourself in a box: have a vision and stick to it. Understand that everyone will not always agree with or see your vision – so, being ‘CONSISTENT’ is key. 

You are coming to the U.K. for the first time. Are you excited about heading here? What else will you be doing when over here?

Yes, this is my first time in the U.K.

I am extremely excited and it is an honor to be here. I remember being in history class saying to myself: “I hope I can go there one day!” I want to visit Bath, Stonehenge; Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace etc.

I can’t wait to try some of the local cuisine like fish and chips, jellied eel; meat pies and so on. I want the full experience! (L.O.L.)

You’ll be supporting Akon. Is that something you are looking forward to? Are you a bit fan of his music?

Most definitely!

Akon is an ‘icon’ in the industry. He embodies the true definition of a ‘Pop’ superstar. I am really eager to meet, watch; listen and learn from him.

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Christmas is not too far away. Do you have plans already or will you be busy working?

My plans at the moment are to be with my family and friends. I am really big on family and everyone getting together for the holidays.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Yes, of course!

I would like to hear from Sam Smith - Too Good at Goodbyes

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