We had the good fortune of connecting with Larenzo Floyd and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Larenzo, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
Seattle has a very unique music scene. From Grunge undertones, to hip-hop, pop, edm, and hardrock. Making music in Seattle has been a journey and I am motivated to keep striving for my goals. At 9 years old I studied the drums under Seattle drummer Davis Martin. Although there were roadblocks, I continued to pursue music. After a few different bands, I started “Free Samples” with my close friends Cesar Huchim and Dylan Turner. A few years later, I gradually started learning guitar, bass, music production and recording arts. With MPC essentials, an old keyboard, cheap amazon mic and audacity, I started on a path.

From there I moved on to FL Studios and Logic until I finally found love in Ableton and Protools. Today I am studying piano and music composition along with vocal techniques under a local musician and a few other mentors.

My parents cultivated a unique but intuitive vision for equity, equality and change in me. Them, along with my siblings, mentors, friends and family help shape who I am today, not just as a musician, but as a person. My background and upbringing helped me build self confidence, self assurance and a positive outlook. Knowing where I came from made me stay determined and never lose sight of my goals. I have a lot of love for the people who have been there along the way and I hope it reflects in my music and artistry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The art I create – beit music, film, painting, animation – is diverse and blends all my skills and hobbies. Being in control of the whole creative process from start to finish is empowering. For example, I’ll write, play, record and produce my songs until there is a final product I can be proud of. My music builds new and creative neo-soul soundscapes; mixing bluesy guitar chords, soulful funk, psychedelic R&B with pop/rock elements.

It took good faith and time to get to where I am today. Learning all the instruments and practicing takes time and dedication, and I believe it’s important to remember I have more learning to do. I’ve had to continue to push myself to not give up and to focus. It is easy to compare and get distracted and jealous by what others are doing. Falling into this capitalistic mindset is something I work hard to stay away from because at the end of the day, one does not need a new piece of gear to sound better.

I want the world to learn how to love each other and spread peace. Being our true unique selves and ignoring the people who try to bring us down will inevitably lead to more understanding. I want my brand to be inspiration for those who struggle through trauma or mental health issues, hopefully lifting them up when they are low.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The State of Washington is a vast state with a lot of breathtaking rivers, lakes, and nature attractions. If I had to show someone the best time of their life in Seattle we would first explore the city. I would first take my guest to Pike Place Market, Famous for its small unique pop-up market shops and the Gum Wall.

From record shops to punk rock shops, to food vendors – the list goes on. From there I would walk my guest to the selfie room, then from there take them to the waterfront where the famous Pier 57 is located. On the waterfront there is the Seattle Aquarium, the Great Wheel of Seattle, and even 4D tours. After this, we would go to the Seattle Center to see the Space Needle and MOPOP museum, along with the famous Chihuly glass museum. From there I would end the night with a trip to Capitol Hill and Belltown where there are a plethora of clubs and bars, a wine alley and a bunch of food spots. Exploring my city is a big task as there are so many cool aspects. Besides all of that, there are so many outdoor activities, like hiking, going to the mountains and swimming in the many lakes we have here in Washington.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Many people in my life have made me the man I am today. I would like to give a big shout out again to my family, friends and mentors for being so supportive. I would also love to shed grace and gratitude towards my teachers and college professors, their thoughtful and enlightening guidance has helped me on my path of growth.

Website: https://linktr.ee/l.a.floyd

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/floydlarenzo/

Image Credits
Keith A. Floyd

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