A conversation with Duncan Laurence

We recently had the chance to chat with Capitol Record’s newest superstar, Duncan Laurence about all things music, his new album “Small Town Boy” & more! Check out our conversation below!

Starting off can you share with us how you began your musical journey?

I discovered my passion for music when I was very young. Music has always been a safe haven for me. A place where I could fully be myself, make mistakes and turn those mistakes into beautiful things, like chords, lyrics and melodies. I started playing the piano when I was four, already creating my own compositions and stories. I was bullied a lot when I was younger. School wasn’t a nice place for me, but home was. My room was… Because I had music.

How has growing up in the Netherlands played a role in your career? is it a musical place?

I grew up in a small town. There was not a lot to do and music was my go-to-thing. It helped me overcome my fears, make decisions, gain confidence. Through music, I was able to see things in a different perspective. It shaped me into the person I am today. I was a small town boy creating songs to be vulnerable and share my stories and that’s what I’ve been doing while making this album too. That part of who I was still influences me today, guiding me, telling me one thing, ‘music will keep you safe no matter what.’ The songs on the album are quite personal. They’re mostly based on personal stories. But like I said before, that’s what I love doing. That’s why I write music.

As a Dutch artist it’s not easy to get an audience on a global level. Things are getting easier these days because of streaming platforms that don’t have boundaries or territories per se. Still, not a lot of Dutch artists have managed to make their music travel across our planet. I wanted that. But I kind of had to find my own way in doing that, since the avenue for Dutch artists is much more narrow. It all began at The Rockacademy, and I took my time studying and improving. My first band ever was the Slick, then I did the Voice to gain some live experience. After that, I started songwriting behind the scenes and developing my songwriting skills. I began creating a sound that felt more like me and my music. I spent my time meeting new people, going new places and always stayed focused and busy. It was important that I gave my dream time. A lot of time.

Tell us more about the story behind your debut album “small town boy”?!

There were so many days that I locked myself up in my room after school. I played the piano for hours, sang and wrote songs. I was a small town boy and I felt that all I had was music. Music has always been a safe haven for me, a place where I could make mistakes and those mistakes would turn into beautiful things. In the process of making the album, I realised that I still create a safe world with music around me. I’m still that small town boy who turned all the negativity from the outside world into positivity, in the form of songs.

What is the most special song to you off the record?

My favourite track to write and produce was definitely Sleeping On The Phone. The first track that I’ve ever written with my fiance, Jordan Garfield. Back then we were just dating and we didn’t know each other that well. I really feel like we got to know each other a lot more by opening up and writing songs about it. Sleeping on the phone is about us missing each other and promising to always be there. Even with a time difference between The Netherlands and LA. Even when we’re an ocean apart. It was also the first track I ever produced myself.

What do your writing sessions usually look like? Do you have any rituals?

I don’t really have any rituals. It also really depends on the writing sessions. If there would be one then it’s that I always like to get to know people before writing with them. Have a cup of coffee and see what they’re dealing with at the moment. What feelings, emotions or stories we could base songs off. 

Who would your dream collaboration be with?!

I would love to one day collab with Noah Cyrus. Or Troy Sivan. They’re both such amazing artists in their own way. 

How would you say you’ve grown artistically since your debut single “arcade”?

I have definitely grown a lot. I started producing music myself. I have been able to create my own world, not only with lyrics and melodies but also with creative aspects of production. Things like the arrangements and instruments. I also learned to write more personal lyrics, to go deeper, and not be afraid of sharing something very personal. Sometimes that can be scary to be vulnerable, but when you open up to fans and they relate to what you’re feeling, it’s incredible, life-changing. 

What advice do you have for young musicians?

Surround yourself with a team that you chose. Make sure it is full of people who believe in what you do. Just stick to a couple of people that you trust. That’s way easier than a larger group. Take advice, but don’t let it influence you in a way where you lose your identity and always stay true to your music. After all, that’s what makes us happy as musicians.

How has quarantine been for you? Are you feeling more or less creative?

It has its ups and downs. I think a lot of people are experiencing those feelings. Sometimes I can be very creative. Actually, in the last couple of weeks, I’ve been writing so many songs. I think about 13 in 3 weeks or something. But , sometimes life seems so unpredictable. Especially when a new wave of COVID hits and rules get strict again. I sometimes struggle with the fact that it all seems so endless. I’d love to go back on stage, perform, connect with my fans. For now I’ll focus on what is sure: writing and releasing new songs.

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