Photo Credit: Shorefiresold-out North American headlining tour. This spring, Major will be opening for Sam Smith on his UK Arena Tour and recently made his late-night TV debut on The Late Late Show with James Corden.
We caught up with Major to talk about his musical influences, his sold-out North American tour and the secret to his success.
You recently released a video for “Cold Blood.” Tell us a little bit about what it explores.
That song, I wrote about my experience being dropped from a record label. It was one of the hardest times of my life and I was lost for a bit, but ended up finding myself and making an album. It’s like the old cliche that if you don’t struggle, you aren’t forced to succeed.
Did you always know you wanted a career in music?
Yes, because I have never done anything else.
How would you describe your music?
My music is a mix of classic songs with modern phonics. I have had influences along the way from (jazz trumpeter) Chet Baker and D’Angelo.
Tell us about your tour and how it feels to be selling out pretty much everywhere you go.
That’s really special. When I heard that we were selling out, that’s an amazing feeling. Most of the places in North America I have never been to like San Diego, San Francisco and Vancouver. It’s a really crazy and amazing thing.
How do you think the music industry has changed since you got your start?
Four years ago, when I was trying to get my record deal, it was like that was what you needed to do. You had to sign a deal to get on the radio, and as a result of that, you had musicians designing music seeking a specific record label. Now, through Spotify, any music that you want to make will find its home. It enables people like me and other artists to have a career. I am on a sold-out tour in North America with 1.5 million people streaming my music and I don’t have a record deal. That’s pretty amazing.
What do you think has been the secret to your success?
I do everything myself. I was trying to find the right producer for myself and then decided to produce myself. Make the music and do it yourself.
Who has inspired you musically along the way?
I’m a huge jazz fan. I love The Great American Songbook and Jimmy Van Heusen. I’m also a huge fan of Radiohead and James Blake. As a songwriter, I am inspired by Bob Dylan and Paul Simon.
Any advice to a budding musician?
Learn your trade. I think it’s really important to learn the language you speak. With music, it’s the same thing. Learn the chords and how to do everything yourself so you don’t have to rely on anyone.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Hopefully, I will have released a few albums, but I will continue to do what I am now because I love what I do.
What are you most looking forward to when playing here in Boston this weekend?
I have never been to Boston and am hugely excited. One of my favorite films is ‘The Departed.’ I can’t wait to visit.
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