Today, we sat down with our artist LYGHT for an interview. Here is what he had to say:
1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?
It has definitely played a huge part in where I am musically. I’m originally from Chicago, which is the birthplace of house music. and although I remember hearing some of those early tracks when I was a kid, I didn’t remember them until I started to work on my own music. It was during the early process of discovering what kind of artist I wanted to be, that those early influences came back.
2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?
Frankie Knuckles. I remember the first time I ever heard “The Whistle Song” I instantly fell in love with the track, as well as his style
3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?
Without a second thought, I’d buy a house.
4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?
Something that I’m learning is that you have to be dedicated. You have to eat, drink, sleep, and breathe for your art. Also, listen to EVERYTHING. Even if its not your favorite genre of music, listen everything. Take inspiration from everything. You’d be surprised how much your own style is influenced by things that are around you. Also, value your time away from your craft. Take a day or two, and then go back at it. It can make all the difference in the world
5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?
Songwriting, recording, producing, etc has to come from a pure place, and it has to be organic. Also, never be afraid to go with whatever emotion or situation you may be going through when you get ready to create a track or record a song. One of my favorite songs and best songs to date, “In My Head” literally was created as I was going through a painful break up
6. How does your family and close friends feel about your music career? Have they always been supportive or have there been issues in the past?
I think that (as is the case with most people) my family and friends never really doubted me per se, they just had a wait and see approach to my career choice. I had a stage where I wanted to do so many things, and so I would start those particular things and never finish them. Making music is my passion and it has always been, and now that I’m actually going for it, my friends and family couldn’t be more supportive.
7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?
Another without hesitation answer: Blackbear. He’s LITERALLY the reason why I wanted to produce music. I want to produce music for him . His music saved my life when I was going through some serious dark times. I started making music and posting it on Soundcloud in hopes that he would hear it. I don’t know if he has yet, but Blackbear ABSOLUTELY, 100%
8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?
Michael Jackson. He literally dedicated his life and passion to his music. He was a perfectionist in every sense of the word, and I would love to ask him questions and pick his brain. I’m always trying to learn from the greats as he did, and he was definitely one of the greats
9. In your time with LiquidSound Records, what is the number one thing you have enjoyed the most? Also, what is your advice to those artists who would be interested in joining the roster in the future?
I love LiquidSound! I love the hands on approach that they have to their artists, and that they are genuinely interested in helping you succeed. For any artist wanting to join the roster I say DO IT! It’s a great family to be a part of, but also be prepared to work. Nothing happens overnight, but it WILL happen if the time and effort is put in. LiquidSound Records gives you all the tools to make it, the rest is up to you.
10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?
In 10 years, I’d like to be recognized as an artist, singer, producer, and songwriter who has had the opportunity to do what I love and work with some of my current faves, as well as help facilitate the launching of a lot of unknown artists. I’m not necessarily looking for fame, as I am just looking for the longevity to continue to do what I love, which is to make music people love.