Sondre Lerche
Norwegian prodigy?

By Megan O'Toole
Gazette Staff

The Gazette recently caught up with Norwegian singer/songwriter Sondre Lerche. Here's what he had to say.

1) What got you started in the industry?

I've always been doing music, and things have just taken on a life of their own. I signed a deal with Virgin in Norway when I was 16.



2) How does it feel to be described as a prodigy?

That makes it sound like I'm some kind of genius. I think it's well-meant when people say that, but I will never believe it.



3) What is it like working with a major label?

As long as I'm not getting pushed around or having to compromise, I'm just as happy to work with a bigger label as a smaller one.



4) Do you have a favourite song on Faces Down?

It changes from time to time. I'm really happy with the whole record. I guess my favorite right now is "No One's Gonna Come".



5) What's in your CD player right now?

Stevie Wonder. I just bought it.



6) What do you love the most about music?

The endless opportunities and the fact that you can just follow your own choices. Music is all dependent on your own ambitions and tastes.



7) What's the worst aspect of the music scene today?

Some people have a really low quality control when they make music, and sometimes they get credit for that.



8) Are you used to having girls chase after you all the time?

It's not a big problem. I'm fine with it as long as they don't try to beat me up or hurt me.



9) Where does your lyrical inspiration stem from?

Lyrics come naturally to me as a supplement to the melody and harmony. I didn't really put a lot of effort into the lyrics.



10) Do you have any solid plans for a new album?

I'm halfway through my next record, and I'm really happy with how it's turning out.



11) Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I'll continue with music until I stop finding it interesting or stop being excited about it. If that ever happens, I'll simply have to quit.



12) Any advice for budding musicians?

Try to be as individual as possible. Spend a lot of time playing music, listen to music and figure out what you like. You'll fail a lot before you succeed.

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