Inspirations and Influences: A Deep Dive into Landon McClellan’s Creative Process

Landon McClellan’s musical journey is a testament to the transformative power of diverse influences and authentic passion. “Believe it or not, I am a church kid from way, way back,” McClellan shares, grounding his artistry in his early exposure to gospel music. Raised in Wilmington, North Carolina, McClellan’s foundation in gospel, coupled with the region’s rich musical heritage, shapes his unique sound. His mother, who frequently sang in cantatas and choirs while pregnant with him, embedded a deep sense of melody within McClellan.

He recalls, “Melodies, harmonies and chords, man, they’re just infused into my DNA somehow.” This foundational influence seamlessly blends with his later infatuation with hip-hop, notably sparked by Lil Wayne. “My very first hip-hop song I ever heard was by Dwayne Michael Carter, Junior, you know, Lil Wayne,” McClellan reminisces. This fusion of gospel sincerity and hip-hop’s poetic flair is the fabric of McClellan’s music, offering listeners an evocative and relatable experience.

McClellan’s artistic evolution is clearly reflected in his integration of these varied influences, creating a blend that is as accessible as it is profound. This synthesis not only defines his music but also sets him apart in a crowded industry, making each track a journey through his diverse musical heritage.

Crafting the Authentic Soundscape: Emotion, Authenticity, and the Creative Process

Creating music that resonates on a profound level is a cornerstone of McClellan’s ethos. When asked what listeners can expect from his music, he affirms, “You can expect to hear soul. You can expect to hear emotion. You can expect to hear something that comes from a place that can only be reached if you look inside yourself.” This insistence on depth and authenticity is evident in tracks like “LUV U 2MORO,” where every note and lyric is infused with genuine feeling.

McClellan’s dedication to authenticity extends to his creative process. Unlike many contemporary artists who rely heavily on editing and punch-ins, McClellan prefers a more organic approach. “I don’t like punch-ins. I don’t like, I’m not a fan of that recording process,” he states, highlighting the importance of a raw and real recording session. This approach ensures that every song retains its original emotion and integrity, offering listeners a true reflection of his artistic vision.

This commitment to authenticity is mirrored in McClellan’s broader perspective on music creation. He values the genuine connection between the artist and the audience, believing that music should be a medium for real human experiences and emotions. This philosophy not only drives his creative process but also resonates deeply with his audience, who can sense the authenticity in every track.

The Versatility Factor: Exploring Diverse Musical Landscapes and Collaboration

McClellan’s versatility is a defining trait of his career, allowing him to explore various genres and collaborate with numerous artists. Apart from his solo projects, he is an integral part of several bands, each with a distinct musical style. “In addition to singing my own music in my own solo career, I’m also part of three different bands that I go out and perform with,” McClellan states, reflecting his diverse range and adaptability.

These bands, including Frank Grant in the Feeling, One Big Mob, and Cape Fear Rising, showcase McClellan’s ability to navigate different musical landscapes. From funk and reggae to original hip-hop fusion, McClellan’s involvement in these projects not only broadens his musical horizons but also enriches his solo work. “It satisfies different parts of you,” he explains, likening his musical ventures to a buffet of genres, each fulfilling a unique aspect of his artistic persona.

Collaboration also plays a crucial role in McClellan’s creative process. His recent track “LUV U 2MORO,” produced by Jay Styles, exemplifies the magic that can happen when talents converge. “This song was produced by Jay Styles from Charlotte, North Carolina. And he gave me this instrumental when we met,” McClellan recounts. Such collaborations allow McClellan to step outside his comfort zone and explore new creative territories, further enhancing his versatility and appeal.

The Power of Connection: Networking, Authenticity, and the Road Ahead

For McClellan, success in the music industry is deeply intertwined with genuine human connections. “It’s about the people. It’s about the networking. It’s about the people that are around you,” he asserts, emphasizing the importance of building authentic relationships within the industry. This approach has not only helped McClellan grow as an artist but also allowed him to create music that truly resonates with his audience.

Being genuine and caring about the people around him has been a significant lesson in McClellan’s journey. He reflects, “If you go out with the intent of blessing people, the blessings are going to find you.” This mindset underpins his interactions and collaborations, fostering an environment where creativity and authenticity can flourish.

Looking forward, McClellan is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. He hints at an upcoming three-song project produced by Jay Styles, promising more of the soulful and thoughtful music that his fans love. “After ‘LUV U 2MORO’ has taken the world by storm, I’ve got two more follow-up songs that were produced by Jay in that same period of time,” he reveals, showcasing his dedication to continuously evolving and delivering fresh content.

McClellan’s journey is a compelling narrative of growth, authenticity, and relentless passion. His ability to blend diverse influences, commit to genuine emotion in his music, and maintain a versatile and collaborative spirit makes him a standout artist. As he continues to explore new horizons and connect with his audience, McClellan exemplifies the transformative power of music and the unyielding pursuit of artistic excellence.