You probably know Bryan Lanning from his family YouTube Channel, Daily Bumps. Over the past few years, he’s shared a view into the life of his family with millions through the channel. Now, we’re getting another look into his life – this time, through his music.
We chatted with Bryan about songwriting inspiration, and his upcoming album, Us!
What inspired you to start performing again?
My followers. For years I had taken a break from music and performing from lack of confidence. They gave me that confidence back.
How would you describe your musical sound?
Changing. I always like to mix things up a bit. I will say that for this new album, I’ve honed in on a sound that feels the most like me. It’s pop but it’s got some R&B, EDM, and even some musical theater influences.
What’s your go-to solution for writer’s block while songwriting?
It’s so hard for me to sit down and devote time to songwriting. I have to be in the moment when a melody comes to me or a lyric hook pops out at me. I write what I can in that moment and then wait for it to strike again.
Who is your biggest musical inspiration?
Tori Kelly, for sure. She’s so talented and really worked hard to make a name for herself. I respect her so much.
Who is an artist you’d like to collaborate with in the future?
Definitely Tori Kelly, I think we could write some really amazing songs together. Ed Sheeran is obviously a legend too, working with him would be a dream.
What do you think was the most challenging aspect of creating and releasing music?
Confidence, for sure. I had to stop overthinking everything. For a long time I kept telling myself that I don’t fit the mold of a “pop star” but I just had to break out of that and break the mold in my head.
Your family YouTube channel, Daily Bumps has a strong following of more than 2 million subscribers – how does it feel to be sharing life’s experiences with so many people?
It’s so humbling to know that so many people can find happiness on our channel. At the same time, we have a huge responsibility to our viewers. I never thought I’d be in such a position.
What was the most important thing about making music that you learned from releasing your first EP, Like A Lion?
Finding trustworthy people is hard but so worth it. I was burned a couple times in working on Lion by producers. I knew if I was to release again that’d I’d have to find a team of honest hardworking people–and I did. My producers and engineers are some of the most talented people I know.
You recently released the music video for your song, “Idaho”. What was your favorite part of putting the video together?
The “Idaho” music video gave me closure from a life that’s been haunting me for a long time now. I grew up in a small town, with an abusive stepfather, and was told I wasn’t going to go anywhere. I had chills on set watching the actors that represented myself and my stepfather act out a scene that took place 10 years ago. But after it was done and put together, I was able to put all that behind me.
What does the song “Idaho” mean to you?
It’s about escaping a life together and starting a new one.
Your wife, Missy is featured on one of the songs from “Us”. What was it like to create music together?
A dream. Something I hope we can do more of.
We’re looking forward to hearing “Us” – what can we expect?
There’s a lot of emotion in these songs–a full range. You can expect some angst, heartbreak, but also healing and reconciliation. It’s a rollercoaster.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZV_VZQ5qmE
What effect do you hope your music has on your listeners?
I hope it shows them what a real relationship is like. Like I said, I feel like we have a responsibility to our viewers. I want to show them that we’re normal people who’ve been through normal things.
What do you think is the most important thing about making music?
I’ve always liked music that tells a story, and if it’s one that people can relate to–the better.
Is there anything you’d like to say to your supporters?
Thank you. For all the support. I appreciate each and every one of you!
Us is available for presale on iTunes. Until its release, you can stay updated through Bryan’s website or social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram.
Are you excited for Us? Let us know by tweeting us at @CelebMix.