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Rising Stars: Meet Tim Leland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tim Leland.

Hi Tim, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve been playing music for as long as I can remember. I always knew that’s what I wanted to do. After I graduated high school I went to college for about half a semester and decided it wasn’t for me. I dropped out, bought a ukulele and a laptop, and learned how to play and started performing live. I’ve now been performing live for almost 10 years, just played my 200th solo show, and play music full time now! I’ve gotten the opportunity to play all kinds of cool places. A prison, an elementary school, a dispensary, a few BBQ shops, and nursing homes to name a few. I love bringing music to all different kinds of people and that’s why I do it!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’ve wanted to quit numerous times. I think most musicians have if they’re being honest. I’ve been not paid, screwed over by managers and promoters, been brought down by a lot of people that I thought were friends, and many other hurdles and obstacles. The thing that keeps me going is seeing the smiles on people’s faces when I perform. That’s why I do it, to spread joy and love!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve been playing music full time for just over a year! I’ve worked very hard to be where I am, this kind of success doesn’t come over night. I’m very well known in my local community and the surrounding areas. I think one of the things that sets me apart is that I play songs on the ukulele that you would never expect to hear from it. Also, the fact that I’ve played so many cool and interesting places. I have won 4 awards for my music including Best Local Solo Artist 3 times.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
To be honest, I don’t really do a lot of reading and stuff because between my two bands, solo shows, and being a father, I don’t have a lot of extra time. I do watch a lot of YouTube though and Papa Meat is my favorite!

Pricing:

  • $100 an hour for my normal set
  • Free for benefit shows

Contact Info:

Person with glasses singing into a microphone while playing an electric guitar outdoors, with a person playing drums in the background.

Group of people sitting at outdoor tables under a wooden structure, engaged in conversation, with trees and buildings in background.

Person singing into microphone, wearing glasses and a graphic t-shirt, with a guitar strap visible.

Person singing and playing guitar with microphone, wearing glasses and a black T-shirt, tattoos on arms, in indoor setting.

Person with tattoos covering arms, holding head with hands, in a dark setting, possibly a music studio or stage.

Image Credits
My fiance Drew Phillips with The Creepy Photo Box

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