Interview: Calvin Loron

What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today? 

I would say that music from the 1960s and 1970s got me into music. When I was around seven years old, I would listen to many great acts such as James Brown, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and many others. Their styles and classic songs inspired me to begin singing and writing myself. If I had not gotten into music, I would probably be working in a museum or a state park. I have a love for history and animals. 

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity? 

When I'm not playing music, I enjoy hiking, reading, taking self-defense classes, acting, and spending time with friends and family. These activities allow me to receive new experiences which inspire me to write lyrics and melodies.

How long has music been your career? 

I began my music career nine years ago at 16 as a hobby, and by my late teens, I knew it was something I wanted to do seriously and long-term.

Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music? 

I'm based out of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Being in Tulsa has given me a chance to meet many talented musicians, writers, producers, engineers, and others in the local music industry. Working with all of these talented individuals has enhanced my craft and made me a better creator. 

Tell me about the best and worst shows you have played. 

The best shows/events I've played are Muscogee Nation's Creekchella, Good Day Tulsa, and Studio 66. These performances allowed me to gain more experience performing in front of large audiences and build confidence. The worst show has to be my first live performance in front of a huge crowd in Oklahoma City at an art festival. I was pretty nervous. https://ktul.com/good-day-tulsa/segments/calvin-mcgriff

Tell me about your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

I've never performed there, but Cain's Ballroom (Tulsa, OK) has always been a spot I've dreamed of playing. I love performing at outdoor music festivals and would like to do more soon. The vibe is amazing. I'd also like to perform in northern/midwest cities like NYC and Chicago and out west in places such as Los Angeles and Las Vegas. 

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket? 

Silk Sonic, Leon Bridges, John Legend, New Edition, and Earth, Wind, & Fire would be amazing on a ticket.

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into music? 

To keep pushing no matter how hard it gets. There will be rough patches in your journey and at times you will hit a brick wall. It'll be very important to believe in yourself and surround yourself with a team. Once you reach your goal, you'll be glad that you kept at it despite the obstacles. 

If you could go back in time and give yourself advice, what would it be? 

To be true to who I am and strive for success in music and all my other ambitions. Everything will work out with hard work and dedication. 

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why? 

Both versions of Old Fashioned Love. This song means the most to me because I believe it's the first song that I made that has that message of meaningful love that I always wanted to share with the world. I've always enjoyed old-school love songs and I feel like Old Fashioned Love could have been well received back then.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most? 

Man On A Mission, Old Fashioned Love, and Thankful are my favorite songs to play. Man On A Mission is my most requested song followed by Old Fashioned Love. 

What is the creative process for you, and what inspires you to write your music? 

My creative process starts with coming up with a melody and lyrics and quickly recording them on my phone so I don't forget. Next, I'll take this idea to a producer/musician and we'll build a track and record vocals. I'm inspired to write music by listening to a lot of music by other legendary artists and from events that happen in my life. The feeling of writing lyrics and bringing them to life gives me a wonderful feeling that is hard to describe. 

What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music? 

The messages I like to get across in my music are believing in yourself, expressing your emotions, positivity, having fun, and all aspects of life. 

Do you ever have disagreements when collaborating and how do you get past them? 

I rarely have disagreements as I'm always open to all creative ideas, but when disagreements do surface we always continue to make adjustments until everyone is happy. 

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up? 

I plan to start performing more often in the South/Midwest regions, continue to build a fan base, and expand further. I'm currently working on new songs and hope to have them released by early summer. I hope you all like them and thank you for traveling with me on this journey.

Instagram - https://instagram.com/calvinloron

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Calvin-Loron-103033594541860/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/CalvinLoron

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1lLJCZ5Fff441h8dLtjLIQ

Spotify: 

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/calvin-loron/1475895526