Today we’d like to introduce you to Lamar Turner.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My journey in music really started as a young child. My mom was a singer and would perform at church every week. As a child, I would ride along to many of her rehearsals and any time we were riding in the car, my mom would be singing. She would teach me and my younger sister the harmonies for the tenor and alto parts of the songs she would be singing.
At any given moment my mom would sing note for note songs from artists like Mary J. Blige, SWV, Lauryn Hill, Yolanda Adams, Mary Mary, Cece WInans and TLC. I learned melody and harmony a lot from hearing her and watching her perform. Then my pops would always have his bass jamming in the work truck whenever I’d ride around with him; My dad loved hard-hitting “old school” and R&B. With him, I’d listen to Blackstreet, Boyz 2 Men, Eric B & Rakim, Biz Markie, LL Cool J, 112. I am forever grateful to my parents for introducing me to the music they did at an early age.
When I was in middle school, my pops bought me my first guitar. That gift helped shape the trajectory of my path in life. I started teaching myself how to play, studying other musicians and youtube videos. Any time I would meet another guitarist I would take it as an opportunity to learn something new from their style as I developed my own. By the time I got to college at the University of Florida, I felt more proficient playing and singing so I started performing in talent showcases, open mics around campus and a few local gigs. I eventually started my first band “Turnaround”. I started to realize the importance of music when I would perform and share my gift. I knew that it was a part of my purpose because of the responses I would receive from people in the audience about how they were impacted or inspired by the songs I wrote or my voice or event fact that I just got up there… I realized that music gave me voice, and a platform to impact so many people, to spread positivity, encouragement, love, and Light.
I am grateful and thank God every day for the fact that he has given me the abilities and passion for music because I didn’t just give that to myself. He created me to serve a purpose, and as I journey more into life, I’m realizing that my purpose is to use the gifts and abilities for others. As I graduated from college, I realized I had a burning desire to be successful producer/songwriter/artist in the music industry. From that point on I knew I needed to be in a place where could surround myself with professional musicians, producers, and artists. A place where the music industry is buzzing and a place where I can see others who are courageously living out similar dreams successfully. So in the spring of 2018, I prayed to God about my plan, I packed my car and moved up to Atlanta, Georgia. Within weeks of living up here I got an opportunity to be a part of a music studio in East Point, Georgia called Gray Matter Collective Studio, where I’ve been able to produce, songwriter and Session play with other creatives in the music industry. I’ve gotten the opportunity to collaborate and learn from Grammy Award-winning, and multi-platinum producers and songwriters. I am grateful to my mentor WLPWR for sharing so much knowledge and “free game” with me and allowing me be a part of this incredible music studio. I’ve also been able to play live guitar with a number of different local artists. This is just the beginning of my journey.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Life has not been a completely smooth road since I’ve decided to pursue my purpose. However, the fulfillment and sense of hope that I get from knowing that I’m stepping out on faith and calling instead of stepping back in fear definitely balance out the temporary struggles. . I’ve started to look at my struggles as tests of my faith. Will I panic and retreat or believe and trust God and keep going. I got into a car accident half-through the year, my car was totaled, but I came out without even a scratch. Ironically I had just got finished praying and was heading to the studio for the day. It’s a blessing that I came out safe… Many times I start to get caught up in the moment and then I’m reminded that there is a bigger picture; sometimes your struggles are really just setting you up for your blessings.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Lamar Turner Music – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Lamar Turner Music is an umbrella for the services I provide. I provide production (live and studio), song-writing, and I teach guitar lessons at Gray Matter Collective Studios. I specialize in both electric and acoustic guitar! On any given day you may find me session playing for production sessions, playing guitar for live shows with other artists/Songwriters, or teaching private and group lessons at the studio.
What sets me apart from others would be my musicianship, I’m well rounded and flexible between multiple genre s of music and my positive attitude in working with others. Lastly, my passion and dedication to music is something that sets me apart but also allows me to connect with other artists and creatives on a deeper level.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Well, right now I’m a part of quite a few records and productions that my team is working on getting placed. Also producing and songwriting on some projects with multiple artists at Gray Matter Collective Studio. This year I’m planning on doing more live performances and touring with artists. I look forward to expanding my network and building my brand. I am also working on a personal project that I plan to release this year so stay tuned!.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 3528726132
- Email: LamarTurnerMusic@gmail.com
- Instagram: @LamarTurnerMusic https://www.instagram.com/lamarturnermusic/
Image Credit:
Marty, Fon Njoh
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