Originally posted on 29th July 2016 here is a Q & A with German singer songwriter No King No Crown. We talked about his experiences writing songs & performing live.
1. Where did it all start for you getting into music?
I always loved to sing along and listen to music on the radio when I was really young but it actually started at Christmas 2001 when my parents gave me an electric guitar and an amplifier. I was totally amazed and jammed around the house a lot but it just sounded crappy. So they put me on guitar lessons which I did for 7 years. By the way I was 13 at Christmas 2001.
2. Who are your influences?
The biggest influence I've got is Dallas Green – City and Colour. He actually brought me to acoustic music when I was 16. He used to play in a melodic hardcore-punk band called Alexisonfire and they were my absolute favorite. At this time I used to play in Hardcore and Punk bands, too. One day I discovered he is doing an acoustic project as well so I just fall in love with his singing and guitar playing. Right now I am a big fan of bears den, Jack Garratt and Olafur Arnalds. Just to name a few...
3. With songwriting where do you tend to get your inspiration from e.g how do you start your songs & what's your process?
The best inspiration I have is the life I am living. There are so many experiences everyday, so many things that occupies my mind all day long. So I try to write the lyrics first and put them on some chords after. The other way around doesn't work so well for me.
The official music video for No King No Crown's song Dear Doubt
4. How important is it do you feel it is to listen to current music as well as music from the past?
I dont know. I actually dont really listen to music from the past or to music my parents used to listen to. I think every song can teach you something about structure and rhythm no matter which genre or when it got released. I think it is just necessary to enjoy what you are listening to.
5. Do you feel it is important to watch other acts perform and to watch other live music?
When you are a musician you should defnitely do! You can learn so much from bands performing live. The announcements, the sound, the Instruments, how they act together, how they try to connect with the audience. Even if you are not in a band: Live music transports feelings so much better than listening to a cd. So go and and support live music!
6. Finally what tips do you have for anyone starting out when it comes to songwriting & performing?
There are many things I can recommend: Try to write as many lyrics as you can. Use your daily experience for inspiration. Buy a book and write down every single note which comes to your mind. Listen to music a lot. Record every single idea. Really important: cover your favourite songs. it will improve your songwriting and structures as well.
To find out more about No King No Crown go to websites:
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