“Rock to the top” starts from a place of doubt before turning into a full-on anthem — how much of that story reflects your own journey in music?
Actually, it means each words of it in terms of what happened in my life. there´s always then a quote of putting it in a way i call “the lyrics effect”: it has to be catchy, simple, easy to follow in terms of melody & storyline and last but not least, sincere. writing with the mind. but always from the heart.
You grew up inspired by artists like Bon Jovi and Motley Crue — what did you want to bring from that era into your own sound?
Mainly the rhythm. i love fast-paced songs. i need the urge of wanting more from what i´m listening. that´s why it is called the entertainment industry: if i don´t feel entertained, i don´t listen to a song or end up watching a movie. my songs try that and i can humbly say that they get away with it. even the slow ones have a fast pace.
The chorus feels instantly memorable — when writing, do you consciously chase that ‘stuck in your head’ factor?
Yes. always. i love what i call in art the full circle. the song goes and comes back. it´s simple. the structure has to be easy to perceive for the whole public´s age range. and if it´s catchy, means that my goal has been achieved.
As both a musician and actor, does your acting background change the way you deliver emotions in your songs?
it has a certain influence. i go very deep into myself when i sing in live shows and that part has a kickstart in immersing yourself in characters when you portray them on set. getting out of your own mind to be someone else in a film or losing yourself in your own songis key to deliver a realistic performance.
If “Rock to the Top” is chapter one, where do you see Paul Le Rocq’s story heading next?
Maybe i can follow what i did with this song. there is a rock to the top part 2 & 3 still not recorded. the end (part 3) is called over the top. for me it´s not about fame & fortune. instead, it´s about building up something with a substance. a song that can be enjoyed by a 6 year-old or a 75 years young lady. bringing the world non-stop catchy music is a must. and let the song stand by itself without the need of creating an extravagant music video to be remembered. if a rough demo is good enough without being polished, my task has been achieved. best diamonds for me will always be rocks. or rocqs.since they don´t need to shine to be appreciated.
Photo Credit: Paul Le Rocq.