Grinding Towards Success: Lessons in Music, Discipline, and Networking

In a captivating conversation between Shah Cypha, host of “On The Grynd Live“, and Landon McClellan, a talented singer and musician, key themes such as artistic influence, organic creation, and the power of networking were explored in depth. This transcript illustrates the journey of Landon, showcasing how his upbringing, gospel influences, transition to hip-hop, and networking have shaped his career. By examining these themes, we learn how discipline, genuine relationships, and embracing diverse musical influences can lead to success in the music industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Early influences from gospel music and a strict upbringing shape an artist’s foundational sound and drive.
• Organic creation and authenticity in music production are vital to staying true to one’s artistic vision.
• Networking and building meaningful relationships are crucial in advancing a music career.

The Early Influence of Gospel Music

Landon McClellan’s journey into music began with a strong foundation in gospel, as described in the transcript, “My mom was heavily involved in the church, heavily involved in gospel… singing in praise choirs, she’s leading, she’s on stage every Saturday.” This immersion in gospel music “in vitro” deeply influenced his musical style, instilling in him an appreciation for harmonies, melodies, and the soulful expression often found in gospel music.

This early exposure fostered a natural aptitude for picking out melodies, with Landon fondly recalling how he began to “finger pick out and hear melodies” at the age of seven or eight on the piano. Gospel music prioritized soulful, vocal expressions over rhythm and percussion, emphasizing authenticity and heartfelt emotions. This influence set the stage for Landon’s later musical explorations, imbuing his work with depth and sincerity.

The broader implications of this gospel music foundation include the importance of early musical influences in shaping an artist’s sound. Immersive childhood experiences often plant the seeds of musical passion, fostering a deep connection to certain genres or styles that persist throughout an artist’s career. For aspiring musicians, acknowledging and embracing these early influences can provide authenticity and depth to their work.

Embracing Diversity in Musical Influence

Transitioning from gospel to hip-hop, Landon’s musical evolution demonstrates the power of diverse influences. His initial exposure to hip-hop came through a pivotal moment when his friend introduced him to Lil Wayne. “He puts headphones in my ears… Georgia Bush was the first hip-hop song that I ever heard.” This groundbreaking introduction marked a significant shift in Landon’s musical path, opening his eyes to the vast world of hip-hop and rap, which was a stark contrast to his gospel background.

Landon’s transformation from gospel to hip-hop underscores the importance of exploring various genres. “There was a flip, there was a switch that got flipped,” he explains. This willingness to explore new musical territory allowed him to expand his creativity and redefine his sound. It paved the way for his ability to blend different genres and create a unique, multifaceted musical persona.

The broader implications of embracing musical diversity highlight the value of evolution and adaptation in an artist’s career. By exploring various genres and allowing eclectic influences to shape their work, artists like Landon can carve out distinct soundscapes that capture a wider audience. More importantly, it encourages artists to be open-minded, innovative, and bold in their musical pursuits.

The Power of Networking and Genuine Relationships

Landon’s journey emphasizes the critical role of networking in the music industry. “Networking is the single most important thing that you can do. It doesn’t matter what your product is. Go talk to people,” he advises. His experiences illustrate how building meaningful relationships can open doors to opportunities and propel one’s career forward.

Through networking, Landon connected with pivotal figures such as Jay Styles and K. Figs, which led to impactful collaborations and growth in his music career. “They were the ones that took the song, they were the ones that picked it up, saw its potential,” he reflects on the importance of these connections. This key aspect of his journey emphasizes the need for aspiring musicians to step out of their comfort zones and engage with their peers and industry professionals.

Networking’s implications extend beyond music; they apply to all fields. Building strong relationships can lead to reciprocal opportunities, mentorship, and lifelong connections that support personal and professional growth. For musicians like Landon, networking is integral to staying relevant, expanding reach, and continuously evolving in their craft.

In examining the themes of early gospel influences, embracing diverse musical genres, and the essentiality of networking, Landon’s story showcases the vital elements of an artist’s journey. From a foundation steeped in gospel harmonies to exploring the dynamic world of hip-hop, Landon’s path demonstrates the power of evolution and adaptability. Moreover, the emphasis on networking highlights the necessity of forming genuine connections that can elevate one’s career. Artists are reminded to remain authentic, open-minded, and bold in their pursuits, creating a profound impact on the industry and those they engage with.