Inspired #0039 - Laville
Rising soul star Laville has just dropped debut album ‘The Wanderer’ via Acid Jazz Records. The release follows on from the Laville’s debut EP ‘Thirty One’, which came out earlier this year. He took a moment to talk to us about NERD getting him through his teens and all things that inspire him.
Who are you top three musical inspirations?
To be honest that changes depending on my mood. In no particular order
Amy Winehouse - Amy was the first person of my generation to make the music she made so perfectly and it really changed my musical map. From the first album I was convinced that Amy would conquer the world. Her songwriting really touched people because it was so honest and no different from the early soul records.
Marvin Gaye - what can I say really he spoke to a generation and more and is still doing it. His vocal range is what I can only aspire to have. I can’t say that I know every Marvin Gaye song but what I do know is that he inspires me to be better at my craft.
NERD -Possibly the first sound which became instantly recognisable to my ears. I don’t think I could have got through my teens without Shane, Pharell and Chad. That mix of rock, soul, rap and metal was perfect for a young black boy trying to break the mould
Is there a certain film that inspires you?
Kill Bill is my favourite film, the power of Beatrix kiddo is other worldly. One of the true superheroes. I’ve seen this film hundreds of times and it’s because her perseverance is so inspiring. Quentin Tarrantino is a genius and if ever I had the money he’d be making me the most epic video so I could dust off my acting boots.
What city do you find the most inspiring?
LA is pretty inspiring to me, everyone is hustling and making it happen for themselves. For instance one of my Lyft drivers was also the promoter for one of the biggest open mic nights in LA. Also the legal cannabis is a big thing it just shows me the level of progression and true understanding is far greater than most places and it’s a complete oxymoron considering what’s happening in other states in America.
Who is the most inspiring person to you?
Obviously my mum. She has raised 2 of her own kids plus my niece for most of her life. She has worked tirelessly to make sure me and brother are not in prison or in the firing line. Now it’s time to pay back ma, my brothers already produced a prime time tv show. My time to put that smile on her face.
How would you like to inspire people?
To make people feel like anything is possible, I’m in my thirties now and I feel like my twenties was just prepping me for what my thirties would throw at me. Never stop believing that good things can happen in your life.