Matt LeGrand – 12:00AM

By starrymag | September 10, 2018

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “12:00am.”

 

A) I am so excited that this is out! “12:00AM” is definitely a special one. I recorded it down in ATL with a great team of writers and producers. The feeling in the studio was absolute magic, which reflects in the song! The team and I wrote it and recorded it to completion in only three hours which is very fast. When things flow you just got to let them flow. This song is about missing the one you love. Missing the one that brings warmth to your chest when you see them. In the song I talk about my daily work routine and that when it’s all finished I get to experience this sense of freedom and joy! “12:00AM” is more than just a place in time but a feeling of exhilaration that encompasses every part of you!

 

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

 

A) It’s about something very relatable. Everyone misses someone or something at some point in their lives and I hope everyone has gotten to feel the excitement that comes with seeing that person. This song is fun, happy, sexy and positive. I always say that it’s more than just a reference point in time and the song has so many different definitions. For example, “12:00AM” could be 3pm for a parent that picks up their kids from school and gets to see them smile and talk about their day. The song does have a deeper message, but its ultimate goal is to just get people moving and feeling good!

 

Q) Tell us about working with Elvis “Blac Elvis” Williams to create the song.

 

A) Elvis was a real pleasure to work with! Meeting him was when I really felt like I was in the big leagues. His attitude was very professional, and his discography really speaks loudly. My favorite thing about him was the care that he showed for the project. I really felt like it wasn’t just a one song and done situation and I really look forward to being creative with him again in the near future!

 

Q) How will the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A) What video? There’s a video? [laughs] I won’t let the cat of the bag. Video coming in a few weeks.

 

Q) What keeps challenging you as a songwriter?

 

A) I think the most challenging part is not doing the activity itself, but rather just forming up the courage to just sit down and start. For me, songwriting is euphoric but frustrating process. It’s just a big old mess until I start to put the pieces together and I am clear about what the message is. It’s a very hot and cold process. Sometimes it takes two hours and other times it takes three months. The biggest thing I’ve learned is that unless you’re on a time crunch there is no need to force creativity. Yes, I do agree that sometimes you have to just kick yourself in the butt, though it should be something that’s instigated by an emotion or feeling. What keeps me going is the freedom of expression. Now, that’s exciting!

 

Q) What are some of your favorite songs to perform live?

 

A) I just performed “12:00AM” live in NYC for the premiere and that was really special! The audience was having fun and smiling! That’s why I do this! To share little moments of connection with people that I may never see again. I love to perform original acoustic material that I know will see the light of day in the near future! I am also a big cover fan and really enjoy doing an acoustic version of Michael Jackson’s “Man In The Mirror.”

 

Q) In what ways does your connection to Chicago influence your music?

 

A) Chicago has been such a fantastic place to grow up. It’s really been a blessing being able to experience all the music history that has come out of here. I’m not really sure as to how it has influenced my sound, but it has played a role on the way I work. Chicago has made me a hard worker because that’s all there is here. Playing at little venues here and receiving the love that I’ve been getting has made me feel proud to say I come from Chi-town. I feel that this city is always looked over, but it’s coming up really fast!

 

Q) How far away are you from releasing a full album or EP?

 

A) Very close to releasing an EP! Looking at October.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) For me there is nothing like a small intimate setting for a performance. I’ve had many memorable evenings and it’s hard to pick a favorite. The location definitely makes an impact but the people there is what really makes it special. It’s getting to meet new people every time and sharing a moment of peace and joy that I really love! Sharing joy in a non-judgmental environment is what a Matt LeGrand performance is about!

 

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

 

A) I’d love to collaborate with Ed Sheeran! I am a big, big fan and I find his story fascinating. He is a true artist and the way that he has honed his craft is amazing. Not to mention the songs that he writes are clever and just catchy! I can’t get them out of my head.

 

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

 

A) I am currently listening to lots of Charlie Puth. To me, he is another true artist very much like Ed. His musicianship is outstanding, and his live performances are better than the records themselves. He is such a nerd as well which is different and refreshing!

 

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

 

A) I do what I do so that I can connect with people all over the world. I long for deeper connection and social media has made it easier. I try and respond to as many messages that I get. I want to know what they are liking and what they aren’t. So, I thank social media for making that communication process much smoother!

 

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

 

A) The support of my vision is truly the greatest gift to receive! I am on a very important mission and I am so happy to have people to share with! Whomever is reading this interview I love you and I thank you for taking time out of your day to read it. Till next time!