Timothy LaRoque might only be 25, but his music carries the weight and warmth of generations past; offering a blend of soul-soaked lyricism, jazz-tinged arrangements, and the bittersweet storytelling of a true troubadour. With the release of 'The Florida Effect' and its standout lead single 'Dreams', LaRoque us listeners into a lush sonic landscape that balances nostalgia with urgency, introspection with social commentary.
Born and raised in Miami, LaRoque writes with the awareness of someone who’s witnessed the contradictions of the Sunshine State firsthand. 'The Florida Effect' is a quiet reckoning with what it means to grow up in a place where beauty and chaos coexist. 'Dreams', inspired by swing-era legends like Chet Baker and Duke Ellington, echoes this tension with grace and hope, a love letter to perseverance in a fractured world.
So with the new album available now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I fell in love with was the guitar; my father was always playing when I was growing up and he got me into it, teaching me my first few songs at the age of 9.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
The music I loved when I was younger is the same stuff I listen to now: The Beatles (and their solo stuff, especially Wings), Motown (Four Tops, Stevie Wonder & Marvin Gaye especially), 70’s singer-songwriters (like Cat Stevens & Paul Simon).
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first vinyl record I owned was American Pie by Don McLean, the first CD I owned was 2001 by Dr. Dre.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I Just Want To Be Your Everything from Andy Gibb, written by his big brother Barry Gibb. Or something by Roy Orbison. Or Jim Croce. It’s a tough question.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Find a groove and a concept for the lyrics, either one can come first.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Bob Lind, Kendrick Lamar, George Michael, The Band, probably some more I can’t think of.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Paul Simon or Paul McCartney.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Being able to create my own little world with my songs and music, being able to pull ideas and melodies from someplace deep inside of me.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Not being able to focus all my energy and time on being a musician because I have to make a living. Ideally, I’ll be able to live comfortably off my music in the near future.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
If you’ve got a gift that the world could benefit from (whether it’s your talent, your music, your lyrics, etc), it’s selfish to hide it from the world. Go out and keep pushing yourself and your music because it could change the world for somebody.
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Timothy LaRoque's new album 'The Florida Effect' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.