Exclusive Interview with Larry Taylor
So tell us about your project! What is the concept behind your project and the message that it conveys?
My latest project, "Signs And Wonders", is a Christian rock opera based on the first five chapters of the biblical book of Acts. The message it conveys is the story of the start of the Christian church, picking up where my previous project, "He Is Risen - A Rock Opera", ended. I grew up in the 1970s when the first rock operas such as "Jesus Christ Superstar", "Tommy", and "Quadraphenia" were released. I would spend hours listening to each one, with the headphones turned up and the libretto (lyrics) in front of me to follow the action. I wanted to create projects in a similar musical style, but with the story based on scripture.
Do you find yourself growing as a recording artist? Explain
Yes, I think I am growing a bit as a recording artist. This growth comes from continuing to improve my guitar playing, and in learning to use the many great software tools for music production that are available to an independent artist.
What's the best thing that has happened to you musically in the recent time?
I would have to say finishing this album project is the most recent best thing for me. There is a significant sense of achievement once you hear the final mix that makes all of the hard work worthwhile.
Suppose if there's another path for you besides music, what would it be?
Actually, music has always been my second path. My primary career was as a software engineer. There is a lot of synergy between engineering and music, and my technical background is quite useful during the recording process.
Would you like to have a dream collaboration, if so who would it be with?
No particular person comes to mind, but I am always open to collaborating with any talented Christian artist with a good voice.
Do you feel that your genre of music has a step of evolution to reach?
My music is part of the Christian music genre, which is always evolving. There are so many subgenres: Praise and Worship, Gospel (Southern, Urban, Traditional, etc.), Pop, Adult Contemporary, Rock, Rap/Hip Hop, Metal, Blues, Bluegrass, etc. As long as there are new musical ways of expression, Christian music can use them to glorify God.
Where in years to come do you see your legacy being forged?
If I leave any legacy, it would be to change lives through my music by encouraging listeners to look into their need for Jesus.
How do you manage to keep a creative mind in making music?
I try to do simple things like jotting down possible song titles or recording interesting musical phrases so I can have a reservoir of ideas to develop.
Any last remarks?
Thank you very much for this opportunity to be interviewed and answer a few questions about my music.