Meet Lennon Vanderdoes | Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lennon Vanderdoes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lennon, why did you pursue a creative career?
Pretty much ever since I had consciousness I was moved by music. That turned into a desire to express that myself, so I taught myself how to play the guitar and sing. This became a big part of my identity- and daydreams.

As I got older and worked different jobs trying to figure out what I was going to do… they would always have these motivational videos playing (trying to get you excited about whatever job you had just been hired to)

I always realized I could and should apply that motivation into my music – and got distracted thinking about that rather than whatever job I had just accepted.

When I had opportunities in a recording studio or on the stage from time to time there was no question – just felt right. Like I could do that forever.

It was the only thing that could hold my interest.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m an independent singer songwriter. Recently I had a run on NBC’s “The Voice”

One of my performances memorably made John Legend cry, and prompted the network to make a rule change to bring me back after an elimination for a final performance.

This helped me get some traction and stay busy with performances. The validation was nice too! Really though I’m most excited about the original music Im working on, as well as the music I already have out there on all streaming platforms.

When it comes to my “brand” really I’m
Comfortable blending in where the listener wants me. Hopefully setting a nice mood on a roadtrip or during a peaceful moment somewhere – maybe during some hard times. My gigs started out (and are sometimes still!) with me playing in the background at a resort or restaurant- it’s there if you want to notice it. I’ve always been alright with that.

Any creative knows there are endless challenges to face everyday pursing this path – long term and short term. What I’ve learned is no matter how difficult the situation ahead seems, going in as prepared as possible, with optimism has always worked out the best for me. Like every time!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
They might not leave my friend cause we’re going on several hikes!!

That’s where you’ll find me most of the time when I’m in town… in the hills somewhere or out to dinner with my wife Morgan.

Phoenix is one of those places where there are so many cool spots you’ll never get to try all of them – so I always just “google maps” what I’m feeling – and pick the coolest looking place!

My friends who have visited are never disappointed with wherever we end up going.

There’s a growing underground music scene and that’s always worth checking out. Swing by Rebel Lounge – Valley Bar – Last exit live – Linger longer lounge – to name a few. You’ll make friends fast!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
So many people have been so helpful to me along the way!

In terms of a music career guide and mentor – my good friend Brady Grey.

And always my wife Morgan.

Website: https://lennonvanderdoes.com

Instagram: Lennonvmusic

Youtube: Lennon VanderDoes

Image Credits
Rachel Kaye Eblin
(RKE Artisty)