Interview: Kevin Garrett Brings His False Hope Tour to Denver on February 6th

Brooklyn-based, Grammy nominated singer-songwriter, Kevin Garrett is hitting the road this week in support of his upcoming EP, False Hope, out February 3rd, with a Denver stop on February 6th at Larimer Lounge. In anticipation for the upcoming show and tour, we recently talked with Garrett about his inspirations, plans for 2017 and new music. Read the interview and listen to his new single, “Stranglehold” below, and grab tickets to an upcoming show at http://kevingarrettmusic.com/. Full tour routing can be found below!

Interview by Jordan Altergott

Can you share some insight into what inspired you to start performing and writing music?

I always liked playing music, I think it was subconsciously a form of self expression. Eventually I started collecting enough ideas and memories to channel into some lyrics, and I guess once I felt comfortable enough to showcase those ideas and memories I was able to start writing anything meaningful. I didn’t really get proud of what I was doing until I got to New York. That was when I started writing what I thought was good stuff more consistently.

What was it like getting your start in New York?

I think I’m still getting my start to be honest, but New York definitely gave me a little bit of a launch pad when I first moved there a handful of years ago. Rockwood Music Hall kind of took me under its wing and I got a bunch of opportunities to perform within some amazing circles. It was kind of it’s own form of college in a way, and once you can sell out the big stage on your own you graduate so to speak. I’ll play there every day of the week though.

You’ve spoken about some of your musical influences in previous interviews. What would readers be surprised to hear that you listen to?

Willie Nelson and Hank Williams might be a bit of a surprise. I listen to a lot of jazz, too. And Shania Twain in like 1997 was utterly spectacular #fromthismomenton.

What was the highlight of 2016 for you?

I got to tour Europe on a bus opening for James Vincent McMorrow, and I think that would be the highlight because I might never get to do that again. So that was pretty cool.

What can be expected from you in 2017? Do you have any goals for the new year?

I think you can expect some new music. I stopped setting goals again because I don’t want to know what happens when you reach them. I’d rather just keep doing stuff and thinking it’s cool every time.

You just released your new single, “Stranglehold” earlier this month! What does this song mean to you?

Stranglehold is about navigating through confusing emotions and remaining confident in matters of the heart.

Could fans expect to hear any more new music soon? 

I would say “yes.”

You’re just getting ready to kick off your False Hope tour this February! What are you looking forward to most on this upcoming tour?

I like touring with the guys in my band because touring independently without much of a crew is the epitome of “the hustle,” and I just like the hang and performing for people.

Are there any cities in particular that you’re looking forward to playing in and visiting? Why?

I would say all of them because I’ve played most of these spots before on support tours and whatnot, so it’s exciting to go back for my own shows and see that people are still coming out.

What can people expect from your live performance?

The band has changed up a little bit. I think the old songs have developed a bit more and there is some new stuff I’m excited to start playing. Also probably some terrible jokes.

Thank you for taking the time to talk with us! Is there anything you’d like to add? 

Thanks for having a little faith in me.

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