George Stanford
You might remember George Stanford as the former member and lead vocalist for Townhall. With influences that range from Paul Simon, Bob Marley, Tom Petty, The Band, Hank Williams and everything in between, Stanford might sound more like your itunes playlist. Although he describes his sound as American, pop and soul, Stanford has paved his way forward as the first artist on the revived classic Smash/Mercury Records label. His first full-length record, Big Drop showcases his pure and soulful voice and a collection that listeners risk truly missing out, if they don’t take the chance to listen. Glide’s Melissa Brodeur recently had a chance to toss some questions Stanford’s way.
How is being from Philadelphia made you who you are today?
Philadelphia made me who I am in many ways…
The culture, music, and my family in Philly very much shaped my outlook. It’s a very real, sometimes tough place, and that left an impression on everything I do.
Was the decision to move to from Philadelphia to LA for your musical career?
What do you feel Philadelphia had to offer you that LA does not, and what do you feel LA has to offer you that Philly does not?
Philadelphia has its own flavor of music and life that is different from LA. The pace of life in the northeast in general is much different than California…I used to hear people talk about that before I came to California, but it’s true…There seems to be much more of a laid back vibe out here. LA is a tough big city, but especially as you get closer to the beach, things mellow out.
I read in one of your blogs "The smells of the inner city brought me right back to Philly (I guess exhaust and bum urine are the same where ever you go)" Do you consider yourself a city-person or do you think of spending time in the country?
I’m definitely more of a city person…it’s just what I’ve grown up to be used to. I love the country too, but at this point in my life, I feel like i still need to be where the action is. There’s obviously a lot of culture to live in and around and absorb living in a big city like LA that you just can’t get if you’re way out in the country. I could moving to a more isolated, peaceful spot one day though.I noticed you like to skateboard, what other creative outlets do you have other than skating and music?
I read that you have early memories of listening to your mom and dad sing country songs in harmony, do you have alot of family members that are into music?
Yes, I come from a musical family, and music was always a central part of my upbringing…someone was always playing or singing something in my house. My mom and dad would sing together which I always loved. My older brother grew up playing guitar and introduced me to much of the music that shaped who I am…my younger brother is a great songwriter and sax player….we all still have family jam sessions with our young nephews too when I’m in Philly. The next generation!
After being in your band Townhall from Philly, what are some challenges you face as a solo artist that you would not have expected?
Do you have any advice for someone thinking about being a solo artist?
What is one odd fact about you?
I just got my first dog. HIs name is Roscoe and he’s awesome.
If I do one thing before I die it better be……………………………..
If I do one thing before I die, it would be to continue sharing love with other people. That’s what it’s all about!