Behind the Music: Exploring Russell Leedy’s Creative Process
Great to have you on Xttrawave. Please, introduce yourself.
Hi, I am excited to be here. I am Russell Leedy from Kings of Carlisle. The name is plural because my former guitarist Keith passed away in November and in honor of him I have kept the name plural. I currently live in Carlisle, PA.
What got you into music and made you realize that it was your chosen path?
Listening to my Aunt’s piano when I was a young boy and playing in high school bands as a teenager. Discovering R&B, Rock and Soul realized that is what I wanted to do.
Tell us about your new music? And what’s the story behind it?
My new single is Dirty Little Secret is a song written from a cathartic point of view from someone in a bad relationship and they were embodied to stand up for themselves. So its from that point of view that the song is written. Much of the music that I write is inspired by real people.
What makes your music unique? How would you describe it?
My music is unique because its a mix of Soul, R&B, Rock and even Jazz from time to time that blends together with a unique sound.
Who are your biggest music influences? And any particular artist/band you would like to collaborate with in the future?
My biggest musical influences are Earth, Wind and Fire, U2, Wayne Wonder and Daryll Hall. Would love to collab with Hall and Oates.
Which is the best moment in your musical career that you’re most proud of?
In light of Keith’s passing away and the vacuum that is left. The release and success of Dirty Little Secret is a proud moment because of the struggle through all of it.
How do you balance your music with other obligations – family, friends or work?
Its hard because music takes a huge portion of my times. So many times I just have to force my self to shut the studio and keyboards down and go do something else.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Be disciplined and work hard. Develop your craft, your art and your music. Do not listen to people that are negative and tell you that you cannot do something. Always believe in yourself.
If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be?
Love, Live and Be Free. And thank you for all your love, support and the beautiful comments. Without the people supporting you none of this is possible.
What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects?
We will have a new single out called “ Show Me The Light” releasing on October 22. I sing part of the chorus in Spanish. It is a tribute to the beautiful latin culture and musicians who taught me so much when I lived in Miami. In January we will be going to Miami to film a music video for my song “ Every Moment”. And after that we will be releasing a ballad called “Lullaby”
- Follow Kings of Carlisle on Facebook
- Visit website
