The Kid Laroi set to debut new songs at the Australian Open after scrapping an almost-complete album
As a child, The Kid Laroi caught the eye of a Grammy-nominated producer. Now, he’s about to drop his new album — and it’s his most personal and emotional yet.
Australian rap star The Kid Laroi will release his new album – after scrapping an almost-finished record – on January 9.
The new album, titled Before I Forget, was made in four months, and Laroi describes it as a “personal and emotional” record.
The Kid Laroi had a different album that was almost done, and ready to deliver to the record company. But he spiked it, saying the album felt “confused” and “unsure”.
In an exclusive interview with VWeekend, The Kid Laroi says: “With the scrapped album I was thinking way too much. That’s how I knew it wasn’t it. And I think that always shows up in the quality of the songs.”
He says the new songs “felt natural”, adding: “Even when we were making it, everything just flowed out, I didn’t have to think too hard about it.”
The first songs to drop, A Perfect World and A Cold Play, signal a deeper, introspective side of the rapper whose catalogue includes an album titled F*ck Love.
The kid is evolving.
He will also perform the new songs, for the first time live, at the Australian Open.
The Kid Laroi will play at John Cain Arena on January 28 as part of AO Live Presents series.
Perth rockers Spacey Jane will play on January 29, pop siblings The Veronicas and US duo Sofi Tukker on January 30, and South Korean DJ and producer Peggy Gou on February 1.
The Australian Open and Live Nation will also host British synth-pop band Hot Chip, producer Elderbrook, Australian DJ Cassian, and electronica OGs, The Presets, during AO Live Week from January 13-16.
Charlton Howard (The Kid Laroi), now 22, grew up in Redfern, NSW, and went to school at Sacred Heart College, in Somerton Park, SA.
The LA-based rapper has amassed 13 billion Spotify streams, including global hits Stay and Without You.
Q: You would be asked to perform at many shows. What made you say ‘yes’ to the Australian Open?
A: Honestly I’m always excited to be in Australia and play. It’s always so much fun. So really any excuse to do that I’ll take it! And the Australian Open is just obviously epic.
A: I’ve seen you perform at Festival Hall in the early days, and Rod Laver Arena for the last few tours. How do you see the evolution of your live shows, and what has been important to you in terms of showing that growth?
A: I think a big thing for me has been just getting more comfortable with singing and my voice live. I’ve never thought of myself as a great singer so learning how to be more comfortable with that has been a big part of it for me. Also being a little bit more intentional with the show as a whole. I used to just go and play my songs in any order, regular track etc … I’ve been having fun recently making live-specific versions of songs and thinking more about how I want them to be heard in a live space.
Q: What goes into crafting a show – songs, production, choreography – that you’re satisfied with?
A: So much time, effort and a lot of very awesome people! The thing that satisfies me the most is seeing people enjoying themselves at the show. That’s the most rewarding feeling!
Q: Some of your songs reflect your struggle with fame and attention. What have been the best tools, and strategies, to cope with life in the spotlight?
A: Going to the gym, going for walks, spending more quality time with friends and family. Therapy as well.
Q: When you reflect on life growing up in Redfern, what comes back the strongest?
A: The Fact Tree! That was the hangout spot. George’s Fish & Chips as well.
Q: How do you stay connected to your roots, and those times of struggle and hustle?
A: I think it naturally just kinda happens. Having my family around helps with that too. I am always reminding myself to be grateful for where I am and how different things could have been. Reminding myself to stay present and stay excited.
Q: What was the best advice anybody gave you, how did you apply it, and what happened?
A: “Don’t make permanent decisions based on temporary emotions.” I try to apply that in my everyday life, even though sometimes it can be hard. I’m a big feeler and I can be pretty emotional. Having that saying in the back of my mind has probably saved me in a few different situations for sure.
Q: What do your latest songs say about TKL, where you’re at, and where it’s heading?
A: Growth. I’m really excited about my new music. And I’m just as excited to keep making more. I really just want to make my best music possible. What that sounds like I’m not sure, but I guess we’ll see.
Q: What does being Australian, and a Kamilaroi man, mean to you? How is it a strength or weapon?
A: It’s an honour to be able to represent on the world stage. Truly. I’m extremely proud of where I’m from … it makes me who I am! I really hope that I can inspire other young people all over the country to go after and chase whatever dreams they may have. That’s always been my biggest dream in all of this.
Q: What was the hardest business rejection that’s happened to you? What did they say, and how did you respond?
A: That’s a good question. My answer is a little different to the question that you were asking, but it relates. I’ve been offered life-changing money for deals with brands and things that I don’t align with on an artistic or personal level, and passed on them because of that. Those are tough rejections for obvious reasons. But I will say I’ve never regretted doing that. Staying true to how you feel and not sacrificing that for money provides a satisfaction that no amount of money can buy.
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Originally published as The Kid Laroi set to debut new songs at the Australian Open after scrapping an almost-complete album
