Rock Monsters Romania

The quarantine was a really hard period for bands and artist. We talked to some bands from all over the world to see the real effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic in music.

Today we talk to Leon Marshall, an amazing solo artist from the UK!

How can you describe the changes generated by the pandemic in the band’s activity?

Well, the evening that Boris announced the first lockdown, I was inundated with messages and emails from pubs and venues that I was scheduled to play at over the next month cancelling and then the weeks that followed, weddings, parties and festivals that I’d been booked for, postponing, and then postponing again as restrictions continued, everything just stood still. I’ve spent lots of time writing, playing the guitar, trying to play the piano! It’s been nice to have the time to focus on those things.

What daily activity did you miss the most during quarantine?

I missed gigging and still do; I’m itching to get back out there. But also, previously I would often go sit in a coffee shop somewhere with my songbook and write, I miss that.

Were there any pluses for this period without concerts?

Yeah I think it’s been a real positive to have the opportunity to reassess what’s important, for example I know that prior to the first lockdown I would set aside very little time to just sit and play the guitar, and as a musician it’s ridiculous that I hadn’t been making the time to develop my craft.

How does it feel to return to some normalcy?

I think we’re still quite a way off normalcy yet, but I know that we’re getting closer, I’m looking forward to it…I’m a heavy smoker and I’m looking forward to being able to cough in the supermarket without people getting their pitchforks out!

What plans have you got for the rest of 2020 and for 2021?

Keep writing & keep playing! I spent some time in the studio last month recording 3 more tracks, they’re each a bit different and I’m really excited to share them with everyone…And then sometime soon, like many others, I hope I’ll be back on stage performing to big crowds again!

Do you have any message for the bands or artists who are still in lockdown/quarantine?

It’s not going to be forever, and you might not have another quiet period like this for a while, so make the most of it.

What message do you have for the people who are going to read this interview?

Thanks for taking the time to get to know me a little better, I hope you enjoyed my latest single ‘Going Nowhere’ have a look for me on the socials @leonmarshallmusic stay safe and keep in touch!

Interview by Radu Mihai