Interview: GAVIN LEE
What was the lightbulb moment to move you to pursue your music career, and if you had not gotten into music, what would you be doing today?
When I released my first single, “Gone Fishin’,” and saw how well it was received, that was when I realized I wanted to pursue my music full time.
After high school, I went to Welding School. I am a welder by trade; so, I guess that’s what I’d be doing as an alternative.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time when not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
I enjoy spending time outdoors – hunting, fishing and riding four wheelers. I try to relay the things that I like to do, personally, in my songs.
How long have you been pursuing your independent music career?
I began pursuing my music career in 2017. Before that, I played for friends and family.
Where are you based out of and how did the lifestyle, home life, community influence your music?
I currently reside in my hometown of Ft. Myers, FL. My two original songs “Gone Fishin’” and “Dixie Dreamin’,” paint the picture of my lifestyle and home life.
What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?
The stage doesn’t matter; I just love to play and perform. But it would be a dream come true to play at the Hertz Arena here in Ft. Myers, Fl.
If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?
THIS would be the line-up: Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet and Hank Sr.!
What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into playing music and advice that you would give to your younger self just starting out?
Don’t give up; don’t look at your social media numbers and don’t compare yourself to someone “Bigger” than you. Keep your head down and do what you do best!
If you could go back in time and give yourself personal advice, what would it be?
Don’t give up; don’t look at your social media numbers and don’t compare yourself to someone “Bigger” than you. Keep your head down and do what you do best!
Which song/recording means the most to you to date and why?
“The Beginning Of Me” is very personal and means the most; I wrote it as a dediction and tribute to my Stepdad.
“My Boy” (by Elvie Shane) is also very meaningful; the storyline conveys the relationship with my Stepdad and his love for me. He took me under his wing without hesitation.
Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?
I receive the most requests for “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Freebird.”
Describe your creative process and what inspires you to write your music?
Usually, I will hear something in a song, that is not one of my own, that catches my ear and gives me inspiration or an idea.
What message do you wish to convey in your music; what impression do you hope to make on your listeners?
I want to be relatable to the listener. I want to write songs that the everyday working class can relate to.
Have you experienced differences of opinion, or disagreements, with your label, management team or band, and if so, how do you get past them?
To date, I have not; we’re all kind of on the same track fortunately.
What are your plans for the immediate future, and what do you wish to spotlight—coming up?
I will be releasing my new song, “Dance” in April. It is a 90s theme based country dance song.
I’m also hoping to arrange for a tour to play venues in Texas.
What is your long-term goal?
Securing a record deal would be sweet!
What would your fans be surprised to know you about you personally?
That I am not a man of many words, as you can see by the questions I have responded to. (LOL)
But, I do like to use my words for song.