Don Larson
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Born and raised all over California... my Mom must've been part Gypsy because we would move sometimes on a monthly basis.
Q: What made you realize that music was your path?
A: When I traveled cross-country with my three best friends on bicycle. I was one year out of high school and had split time
between drawing and playing guitar. Something about the power music held over me during that trip made me want to drop the
visual art and try to become a songwriter.
Q: How would you describe the music that you typically create?
A: It really tries to be high quality. A melody will just come to me and I am compelled to play with it. Sometimes it is a
lyrical concept... but usually it will take the form of a Pop/Rock/Country type of vibe, but not always. I wrote Urban Gospel
for about a five year stretch and so I have those influences, as well. Speaking of influences...
Q: Who are your biggest musical influences?
A: My Mom. Gypsy or not, she sang everyday and really well. She used to sing with a lot of big bands back in the early days.
She also used to write funny little poems... they weren't very good, but I would wind up singing to them and turning them into
songs starting at the ripe old age of seven. By the way, I can't remember any of those melodies, but I'm sure they weren't very
good either. As far as major artists being an influence... I think that Elton John, Harry Chapin, David Foster, Michelle Branch
and Brad Paisley have really inspired me with their craft. Nothing ordinary about how those guys put together a song!
Q: What makes your music unique?
A: I have been told that there seems to be a "signature" to my music. I don't know if that is good or not, but I feel a moral
obligation to say SOMETHING in a song. And, I do my utmost to have a message that is not common subject matter. I try my best
to avoid "love songs" unless I can put a slightly different spin on it. So, I guess for me, "it's the lyrics".
Q: Has there been one particular moment in your musical career that you're most proud of?
A: Recently getting a fairly nice check from Sony/BMG (with which I finally purchased some recording gear... good grief! About
time, eh?). One of the artists I wrote for had a remastered collection released on that label and it was a thrill to see my name
next to their logo on the check. It felt so right! Other than that, just the times I have heard my songs on the radio... pretty
cool stuff. I'd sure like to hear a few more (ha, wouldn't we all?).
Q: What's next for you?
A: My oldest son, Dane Larson, is 21 and insanely talented (OSU Computer Science Engineer Grad, arranger, composer, pianist,
singer... you get the picture). We are writing some together and I think he has a bright future. Also, my only daughter, Christina
Marie Larson is an amazing singer (I think she gets it from my Mom... it skipped a generation), so I am trying to incorporate
these guys into what ever future I might have with music. Thanks for asking me these great questions! I can't believe I opened up
to a total stranger like this.
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