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November 12th, 2019

Meet 2019 NewSong finalist Parker Ainsworth

NewSong is proud to introduce 2019 finalist Parker Ainsworth! The singer-songwriter from Los Angeles, CA will join his fellow finalists onstage at Isis Music Hall on Saturday Nov. 23 for the final competition. 

Parker’s song “Running for so long” was recently featured in the film The Peanut Butter Falcon (video below). His blend of Western folk and soul music earned him the Grand Prize at NewSong’s 6th Annual LEAF Competition in 2018.  

 

We asked Parker about his musical inspiration, songwriting process and what music news he has coming up in the Q&A below. 

Connect with Parker on his website, Facebook page, and Instagram. For more information on attending this event, please visit our Facebook event page. Purchase tickets here. 

What are your most significant musical/artistic inspirations?

Too many to name, really. I grew up on blues and country (Kris Kristofferson, Johnny Cash, BB King, Howling Wolf, Muddy Waters, the classics); lots of old rock (Stones, Beatles, specifically George Harrison and John Lennon made a huge impression on me); and Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan, of course, made an impact. Then I got deep into hip hop, house music and drum ‘n’ bass (Aphex Twin, Project Blowed, Tribe called Quest, Beastie Boys, Metalheads, Danny Tenaglia — pretty all over the place). Beck definitely blew my mind, and Nirvana as well. Lately, I’ve really enjoyed the older Staples singers recordings and a band called Tinariwen.
 

What is your songwriting process like?

Every song is different. Sometimes words come first; other times, it’s just a melody, or chord changes that evoke a feeling. The most important process for me these days is one of being present for the spark and not analyzing it until it’s become a fire. I’ve lost many potentially good ideas by judging them too early. Now I’m trying to be more curious and playful with things.
 

What was your reaction to being named a NewSong finalist?

I’m humbled and grateful for the opportunity.
 

What music news would you like to share with readers?

The Peanut Butter Falcon, a gorgeously human film that I wrote a song for earlier this year is out now. I’m also playing a show at a The Troubadour in LA opening for an artist named Desi Valentine on Dec. 10. This will be my first time to play that venue, which is a legendary home for music in Los Angeles.
 
 
For more information on attending the NewSong Competition event, please visit our Facebook event page. Buy tickets here. 
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