In a world of John Mayer’s and Jason Mraz’s, one might find someone who is a singer-songwriter like that very hard to not only stand out but shine at the same time. Andy Grammer has been able to do both in a really unique way. It’s hard to believe the song that really started it all for him, “Keep Your Head Up” is three years old now. He has done a lot of exciting things since then such as open up for Colbie Cailat, Plain White T’s and even secured a coveted spot at SXSW back in 2011. He currently is in the midst of his first headlining tour which hits UNC Charlotte next on April 28th. The Platinum Records recording artist recently sat down with me to discuss his history of where he came from, thoughts on his new album and how it felt to have one of his songs be an international hit. Check it out-
How old were you when you decided you wanted to get into music?
I have always been fascinated with what entertains people. So whether it was magic trick, a backflip on a trampoline, a last minute basketball shot, I loved entertaining. In high school I found songwriting and that became my favorite. You can entertain but do so much more as well.
Who are some of your inspirations?
My musical inspirations come from genres. I love piano rock, hip hop and acoustic guitar. I try to blend all three in my music. Lauryn Hill, Coldplay, and John Mayer are a few I love.
How would you describe your sound?
Piano rock, hip hop and acoustic guitar had a musical child.
Your song “Keep Your Head Up” blew up on charts all over the world and hit number one on VH1’s Top 20 Video Countdown. How did that feel?
Pretty incredible, especially having come from street performing. I had friends in Italy, China, Australia, hitting me up saying they were hearing it in the grocery store and stuff. Crazy.
What do you think separates yourself from all the singer-songwriters out there now?
I think the main thing that separates any artist from each other is point of view. My point of view is a bit a different. The better you get at being specific the more you stand out.
You’ve opened for some pretty big acts over the years like Plain White T’s and Colbie Caillat. What was your favorite tour and which city did you have the most fun in?
Opening wise they were all so different. Opening for Train this summer was a blast shear numbers wise. Performing in front of such big crowds every night was a rush. Colbie has become a really good friend and brought me out on tour a bunch of times now. She might be my favorite to hang with.
Tell me about the new album you have coming out. What can your fans expect from it?
I’m still working on it. Hopefully they can expect great songs. I put a lot of time and effort into creating songs that I can stand by. Hopefully I get them.
What is your favorite song off the album and why?
That’s like asking a parent who their favorite child is 🙂 They are all my little babies.
Plans for 2013 and beyond?
New album and take over the world?
What is the one thing you want your fans to know more than anything about who you are as an artist, ultimately the thing that defines you.
I’m just a normal guy chasing dreams. If you listen to my album I hope that it inspires you to chase yours.
Want to know more about Andy’s tour, new album and everything else Mr. Grammer? Check out the sites below for more information on this talented dude!