Laine Hardy has had quite the success since winning Season 17 of American Idol in 2019. The 19-year-old singer debuted two new songs “Ground I Grew Up On” and “Let There Be Country” in the spring of 2020 which quickly gained the attention of thousands. Hardy worked with producer Michael Knox on these two songs and both of them reflect on his Louisiana roots.
Ahead of his Idol successes, Hardy released a 3-track EP in 2018 entitled, In The Bayou, which is also a reflection of his hometown in Louisiana, which he says will always be a factor within his music, showcasing his roots and where he grew up.
We recently had the opportunity to sit down and chat with Hardy about his life in quarantine, his latest singles “Ground I Grew Up On” and “Let There Be Country” and so much more which you can read below.
How has life in quarantine been treating you?
Good. Really taking advantage of the time with my family. We have been loving your virtual tour.
What inspired you to go on your virtual tour?
Simply put the people who have supported me over this last year. I owe them everything. When we found out that the tour was being postponed we knew we had to find another way to play shows. The best part has been the new friends we’ve made with our vTour partners. We’ve been able to play shows for the USO, American Idol and even our local favorite chicken strip restaurant Raising Canes.
On the topic of touring, How do you think that concerts will be affected when life returns to “normal” after the novel coronavirus?
I’m not sure, but we will be ready.
You recently released two new singles “Ground I Grew Up On” and “Let There Be Country,” can you tell us a bit about these singles and how they came about?
I’m so lucky to be working with producer Michael Knox on this music. Before we went in we sat down to listen to some songs to record. He played “Ground I Grew Up On” for me and you could have sworn that it was written about me, except for the “Red Dirt”. We don’t have that here. “Let There Be Country” is just what we do. I have an “old truck with a boat hitched up” out back.
Your single “Ground I Grew Up On” has such an infectious chorus, can you tell us about the ground you grew up on in Louisiana?
Growing up was running around barefoot, jumping fences, and just being surrounded my friends and family.
Will these singles be on a forthcoming EP or an album, if so when can we expect it?
We’re just going to keep recording songs and keep putting them out.
Who or What would you say most inspires your music?
Home. That doesn’t just mean Louisiana music. It’s my family, being on the river, hanging out with friends. This is where I come to get inspired.
Do you have any dream collaborations that would you like to do? If so, who?
I got to perform with Jon Pardi on the show. If he could stop making us laugh.
How was it working with Luke Bryan while on American Idol?
It is great to work with Luke. All the judges are great. I can’t miss Bobby [Bones]. He really looks out for the contestants and gives great advice.
How would you say you have grown as an artist since you won American Idol?
Touring and coming to Nashville have been teaching me a lot about connecting with the fans in my songs and on stage.
Can you share your favorite memory from your days on American Idol?
We just have so much fun. I’ve said it before, but we really were cheering for each other.
Do you have any advice for fans who want to audition for Idol or for the winner of this season’s Idol?
Try not to stress too much and take in the experience.
On the topic of Idol, You recently returned to American Idol on the Disney themed episode where you performed “Life Is A Highway,” Can you tell us about the performance?
We did “Life Is A Highway” from the movie, Cars. It is always great to go back to the show. This time was a little different. I filmed it on my brother’s porch instead of in Hollywood.
Anything else you would like to tell your fans that we didn’t cover and where can they find you online?
I can’t wait to put out more music and get out on the road again.