Inspired #231 - FJ Law
FJ Law - the solo project of songwriter and producer Danny Hall has just released his new track ‘catching 22’ - he took a moment to talk to us about the inspirations behind the track.
Who are your top three musical inspirations and why?
My top three musical inspirations are Jeremy Zucker, Mura Masa, and of course my friends around me. Jeremy Zucker for his relentless standard of song writing and DIY production, Mura Masa for his experimental expression in his music. And finally, my friends who inspire a relentless work ethic in myself aiming to better myself in every song.
Is there a certain film that inspires you?
I know it sounds cheesy but a film that inspires me is 'School Of Rock.' After watching Freddie smash a drum solo at the end of the film I decided to start playing the drums, my music journey began from there. That led to guitar playing, singing, songwriting, and eventually production. I watch the movie occasionally and think of how far I came since I watched that drum solo for the first time. I can't explain it but it fills me with a warm sense of achievement. I would have to say this is the movie that inspired me the most.
What city do you find the most inspiring?
Ever since moving to London, I have definitely had my ups and downs. It's a hard place to both live and thrive. It's a city that prompts a rollercoaster of emotions and sometimes it's almost too much. You can feel like a small fish in a big pond. However, with so much going on around you and living amongst so many people from different walks of life there’s never a dull moment for inspiration.
Who is the most inspiring person to you?
The most inspiring person to me is my dad. He taught me to work hard and to follow my dreams. He is a kind husband, a brilliant dad, a music lover, and a Liverpool fan. Everything you need in life. His excitement for everything I do makes the process 10 times more enjoyable knowing i'm making him happy and proud. I will never stop pursuing my career as an artist knowing my dad will always support me. He has picked me up when times have been tough, pushed me forward when I'm stepping out of my comfort zone, and celebrated with me when the time is right. He is my biggest inspiration.
What were your inspirations when writing your new track?
When I made 'catching 22' I didn’t go into the production with any particular thought in mind, I just made a beat and wrote a song with it to see what would come out. I know I wanted to have a chorus that felt like a release of energy, and a feeling of satisfaction. The story of being in a dark place emotionally with a person but ultimately doing what’s best for you and feeling like you made the right decision. The mood is darker in the verses to reflect the more brutal times of heartbreak.
How would you like to inspire people?
I would like to inspire other young songwriter/producers starting out. To inspire them, and give them confidence to release music that they’ve made in their bedrooms. That’s been recorded on basic equipment. I want them to know that a good song can carry itself and that you should believe in what you're doing and trust your gut! And most importantly to enjoy doing it, otherwise what’s the point?