Laine Hardy – Memorize You

By starrymag | September 17, 2021

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound? 

 

A) It’s a mix of all the classic with a modern touch. Classic Country, Classic Rock with a little Tony’s seasoning on it.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?  

 

A) Everyone knows about my Elvis [Presley] love, but I would listen to 70s and 80s Rock with my dad and then listen to Pearl Jam with my older brother.  My influences, one might say, are older than expected for a guy born in 2000.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Memorize You.” 

 

A) I believe this one came from my A&R guy at the label, and it just so happened was written by Michael Tyler (Tiny Town) who is a songwriter for my Producer, Michael Knox.  To many people I know involved and too good of a song for us not to cut it.  Then, there’s playing it on a little TV Show recently. [laughs]

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?  

 

A) There’s nothing like meeting someone new and those first moments a relationship.  We all can relate to that… I hope.

 

Q) We loved seeing you performing the single on “The Bachelorette.” How did this opportunity come about? 

 

A) I believe an unreleased copy of the song found its way to the label.  Next thing you know, we are quarantined out on a resort in New Mexico to play for Katie’s [Thurston] date.  It’s taken a life of its on with Blake [Moynes] still on the show. Team Katie first, then Team Bachelor Blake.

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?  

 

A) My strength is in the melody.  Any time I have a guitar in my hand, I am picking at it. I record those on my phone all the time to bring out in a writing room.  But then there is “Other LA” which comes from a joke of me saying “I’m from the other LA.”

 

Q) How much of hand do you have in the production of your music? 

 

A) I am there every step of the way but realize there are people way smarter and with way more experience than me that can help me tell my story.  Why would I not lean on them for their gifts?

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future? 

 

A) I can’t say anything, or I’ll get in trouble.  That’s all I am saying.

 

Q) You’re headed out on a coast-to-coast tour for Monster Energy Outbreak. Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you? 

 

A) It is special any time I am in my home state to play, but I am probably most excited to be in new places this tour.

 

Q) With concerts having been on hold, what have you missed most about being on stage? 

 

A) The Energy.  You can’t replicate it.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future? 

 

A) I would love to find a way to do something with Jimmie Allen. He is one of the good ones.  He has always been there for advice when I needed it. Every time I have reached out, he has been great encouraging me. It’s nuts trying to figure this music business out.

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

 

A) Everyone needs to learn about Swamp Pop.  I always have that in rotation.

 

Q) We loved seeing you on “American Idol.” What did you personally learn or take away from working on the show? 

 

A) Opportunity and respect.  Always embrace the opportunities that present themselves and respect the people who will help you in those opportunities.

 

Q) What advice would you give to others looking to try out? 

 

A) Just do it and rest up before.  I’ve not stopped running.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans? 

 

A) The access is key.  I can even text fans these days.  We have never had more accessibility to connect around the world and with others as we do now.  I have a fan group in the Philippines that are some of the most loyal.  I can’t wait to make it to Asia to play.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work? 

 

A) I’m just a guy from a small little community in South Louisiana who like to spend time and live life with his family and friends.