Behind the Musician: Randy Leasman
- Siri Lorece
- Apr 1
- 8 min read
Music has a funny way of helping us heal and feel our way through life. I can’t think of a time when music wasn’t my companion on this journey, and I am incredibly grateful how music has not only been my respite, but my career. Being an artist has led me on a path to co-exist with some of the most astonishing magical humans. Amongst the magic I met Randy Leasman.
Though I am currently living in Los Angeles, in 2009 I relocated back to my hometown - Davenport, IA. I was unabashedly excited to move back and reconnect to the art and nature inspired community that made me fall in love with music. As soon as I arrived, I hit the ground running networking, and after several suggestions from friends to hit up the local Blues joint, I went to an open jam night at the Muddy Waters. Lucky for me, the jam was co-hosted by Randy Leasman (amongst other musicians), and from that moment forward, my life and music career has never been the same.
Randy Leasman is one hell of a musician, songwriter, and music educator from Davenport, IA, and he has made significant contributions to the regional music scene. He is known for his dynamic bass playing, decadent guitar melodies, and heartfelt songwriting. Randy's musical journey encompasses collaborations with not only me, but various bands and solo projects that showcase his artistic evolution. I am continuously in awe at his commitment to his authentic approach to music.
I am so stoked to share more about my wonderful friend and writing partner's musical journey. His is one of passion, persistence, and an undeniable commitment to the importance of music. Whether he’s weaving guitar melodies that linger in one's soul or laying down the perfect bass line as a songs foundation, his artistry speaks for itself. But rather than just telling you about his process and inspirations, I had the opportunity to connect with Randy and dive deeper into his world. In our conversation, we explore his creative influences to the nuances of our collaborations. Let’s get into it!
Q & A with Musician, Randy Leasman
S: Let’s start with the basics for those who may not be familiar with your dopeness. How did you get started as a musician?
R: I was always surrounded by live music at Mexican family parties as a kid. My older siblings watched MTV in the 80s, then I did too in the 90s. I didn't pick up a bass guitar until I found out a classmate was learning electric guitar in 7th grade. One year later I started playing electric guitar in addition to bass. We formed a band quickly and were playing talent shows and booking our own shows at the local Federation of Eagles club and girl scout parties. Soon after, I discovered blues music through classic rock musicians. I was hunting for the music that inspired my heroes.
S: I love that music has always been a shining light in our life. How did you get into teaching?
R: After years of developing my craft and skills by writing with various bands and solo efforts, I got into educating others. I've been an instructor for kids rock and blues camps for the last 13 years. I find it very fulfilling! I've also had success with a couple bands I played bass for by winning the Iowa Blues Challenge 3 times and getting to compete in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. Each time reaching the semifinals! With Avey Grouws Band we also made the top 10 of the Billboard Blues Chart twice (with two separate albums). I am currently looking forward to making more solo albums and collaborations with friends 😉
S: You are absolutely the first call folks make if they're looking for a blues bassist! Performing at the Iowa Blues Challenge and International Blues Challenge with you was pretty legendary (2012)! Much of my extended family lives in Memphis and performing during the International Blues Challenge felt like a full circle moment for me to share the stage with all of you at that time. Especially considering that was my first tango performing Blues music. How cool that you got to experience so many milestones as a Blues artist?!
S: Your music is very heart centered. What are some key themes or messages in your work?
R: Love, love, and love. Always love, communication and understanding. Consciously or unconsciously I want to send a positive message every time.
S: I know that’s right! I agree. Each artist is different in their approach to creativity. What’s a piece of musical advice you received that completely changed the way you create?
R: Intention. Sometimes you have to get in a flow state for the music to pour out, but other times you can make it happen by simply focusing on the intention of a song.
S: Real talk, intention reigns supreme all around. In creativity, in community, in how we walk our talk. I love that intention is at the forefront of your artistry.
S: Can you share the creative process behind your music collaborations?
R: Most of my collaborations have been with you. Your lyrics flow so well, just reading them lets the music start flowing in my mind. Other times, you seem to effortlessly write to something I'm stuck on. With past bands, I have always had fun just throwing down some funky bass lines and seeing what other musicians come up with. I still enjoy a good spontaneous jam with friends whether it's recorded or not.
S: Thank you for sharing that. I agree!
Our creative partnership is as easy as breathing. Before we met, I didn’t feel connected with my personal writing experiences. I was lacking inspiration and freedom in creativity having come from a music theory centered and classically trained background. You are a great part of the reason I started writing, and continue writing today. So much of my creativity and willingness to write from a love grounded perspective has stemmed from early conversations you and I had about writing. I’m grateful.
New Music & Inspiration
S: What inspired you to start your solo project "Forever Loving Living Fantasy"?
R: The timing was perfect. The band I was writing for was about to call it quits at the same time as I was building my home studio, and then the pandemic hit. All of a sudden I could work solely on that and still have time for my family. But, I think having my daughter really motivated me to make something that really represented myself to leave behind for her.
S: I think it is really telling how powerful music is by how many of us artists were able to explore our creativity in more personal ways during the uncertainty of the pandemonium, and of course being inspired by family is truly special. How does your connection to your environment (nature, city life, community) influence your sound?
R: One stormy night while mixing “Our Nature Is Dying” at my friend's studio Joy Avenue Media, I heard some wonderful thunder outside. It inspired me to capture some of it right away and we mixed it in the song that night.
S: That is one of my favorite songs of yours! It is absolutely infused with nature and matches your vibe perfectly. That is a beautiful example demonstrating how inspiration comes at unexpected times. Tell me about an unexpected place or situation that has inspired a song for you.
R: My daughter has said quite a few spontaneous statements when she was very young that inspired many songs. There's also a rare chance to capture music from a dream that's always a delight but mostly a challenge.
S: That’s awesome! Kids definitely have an uninhibited perspective on life and drop gems of knowledge unexpectedly. I love that!
“I love to play slide guitar because it's like another voice but it doesn't require lyrics. It is just emotion.” - Randy Leasman
S: One of my favorite things about you is your silly side. So, how about a lighthearted question: If you had to describe your musical style using only flavors and textures, how would you do it?
R: Mexican restaurant cheese dip 🤣
S: Randy, please! So besides your cheese appeal, what sets you apart from other artists?
R: I can sing in Spanish. I have experience producing and co-producing myself and other projects. That has strengthened my ability in that realm. I can whistle pretty darn alright too!
S: Let me know when your pen hits the paper for your all Spanish album!
If you could collaborate with any non-musical artist (e.g., a poet, painter, or filmmaker), who would it be and what would you create?
R: I've always wanted the challenge of scoring a film, but no specific film maker comes to mind.
S: I really hope you take the time to bring that goal to light! With that in mind, how do you see your music evolving in the future?
R: I really want my voice to get that grit that comes with age, but honestly the older I get the more I'll be content if I can just physically continue to sing and play at all.
S: Your voice was my first impression of you, it’s beautiful! You mentioned that music has always been heavily influenced in your life. If your music could be the soundtrack to any moment in history, what would it be and why?
R: It’s hard to imagine a different moment than the present. I'm just grateful for the life I have. Who knows, maybe in one hundred years people will be sick of AI made crap and they'll rediscover lil ol’ Randy Leasman's music.
S: It’s crazy to consider how even ten years ago, there was much more legitimacy in the arts and media. But, I think you can count on people continuing to support and discovering all of your music and magic much sooner than one hundred years!
“Live your life to the fullest without harm to yourself, others and your environment. Use the truth and knowledge that resides in yourself to achieve that life. And give a little love.” - Randy Leasman
Randy's Favorite Things: Schecter Diamond Series Robert DeLeo Model T - (5 String) with Ken Smith strings, 2000's Fender 51 P Bass Reissue with flats (record direct), Fender Rumble 500 2x10 combo, 93 Gibson Gospel Acoustic, 2000's Fender Robert Cray Mexican Strat, Gibson Les Paul 60's Reissue (in the studio), 2000's Render 65 Delux Reverbe Reissue guitar amp
S: As you know, my mission is conscious community connection through creativity. Music & Mindfulness are my preferred mediums. Do you have any personal rituals or habits you enjoy before performing or recording?
R: Making sure I've had enough rest is really important. I want to give it my best and not waste mine or other people's time. Life is busy, so sometimes that means slamming an energy drink!
S: Yes, rest is best - and often for artists, there isn't always an opportunity for a lot.
Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?
R: I'm always picking away at new songs in the studio. So hopefully my next solo record comes out of it sooner than later. And there's more collaborations with you to be done✨
S: Count me in for any and all collaborations. You got me! I am so happy to share more of your journey with my readers. Thank you for your time, your friendship, and your commitment to music, song writing, and music education. I appreciate you.
Learning more about Randy's journey is a reminder of why music is so special. It brings people together, tells our deepest truths, and creates moments that stay with us forever. His passion for storytelling and collaboration shines through in every note, and I can’t wait to see where his creativity takes him next.
If you’re as inspired by Randy’s music as I am, be sure to connect with him! You can follow him on Instagram, stream his latest releases on all of your favorite streaming platforms like Spotify and BandCamp.
Stay tuned for more collaborations between the two of us, like our latest song (and duet) “Fall In Love”, available on all of your favorite streaming platforms.
Here’s to grounded connections, conscious creativity, and divine alignment. Until next time! - Siri Lorece
Affiliate Brand Partner
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