Following the release of his single and video for Neon Dreams, we caught an interview with violinist and artist Asher Laub to find out more about his musical journey so far and his hopes for the future. Here’s how it went.
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Hi Asher – thanks for the interview! How has your start to 2019 been so far?
My pleasure! Well I can tell you that 2018 was a total blast. So many new opportunities have popped up, ranging from concerts to celebrity events. 2019 has just started and I can’t wait to see what it has in store for me!
Tell us about Neon Dreams – which passion came first for you; that of electronic dance music, or that of violin playing?
Well the violin was sort of the spark that made Neon Dreams possible. Neon Dreams is, on the surface, a fun dance song with a bunch of catchy, sophisticated and melodic runs. But it’s so much more to me. It marks the beginning of a new direction in my life.
About 5 years ago I regained the strength to lift my violin, something I never thought was possible. And that was the beginning of “the dream”. But it wasn’t until I produced Neon Dreams that I realized I had found my voice, and that this vision to touch millions of people with my music in a meaningful way became realistic.
What do you hope the song offers its audience?
My goal in Neon Dreams is to merge the past with the present. To engage my classical fans as much as my EDM groupies. I want to show both listeners that the 2 genres can coexist beautifully and that the violin plays an effective role as a lead instrument in today’s electronic-focused market.
Who or what would you say has inspired your approach to creativity and performance the most?
I have been inspired by so many artists and it’s hard to pinpoint just a few. But Jean Luc Ponty, Vanessa Mae, Avicii, Yanni, Dave Matthews, Bela Fleck, and a whole slew of others have given me ideas to play with that I had thought were possible with the fiddle. They are pioneers, and I have so much respect for the path that they’ve paved for artists such as myself.
How did you come to collaborate with the break dancers in the video, and is it true they’ll be touring with you? What else can fans look forward to from the live shows?
I used to take gymnastics, and actually spent a number of years break-dancing in high school. Dancing and playing music is really the ultimate expression of the soul and it was really a sort of natural thing to incorporate break-dancers into my music where the rhythm fit so well. I have so much more fun when I’m dancing and playing, whenever possible. Those dancers you’ve seen in my videos have already toured with me across the country. And I’m working to build a longer tour at this moment.
Where do you plan to tour?
I plan to cover the major cities in the tri-state, LA, and Florida at the moment. My longer term goal is to go cross-country and ultimately to Europe.
Is there a longer project on the way?
At the moment I’m releasing a single just about every 30-60 days with a corresponding video. My longer term project is a larger tour that involves a more robust team, with at least a month straight of back to back shows to promote my music.
What are your main aspirations throughout the coming year as an artist?
I’m working to collaborate with about 6 established artists, at the moment. I hope to get those projects finished by May and then move to some new talent that features singers, DJs, and other contemporary string players.
If you could perform at any venue or event in the world, past or present, which would you choose – and why?
It’s funny, Carnegie Hall is definitely on my bucket list, and I just got my 1st invitation to perform there this June! I really look forward to that concert. I’ll announce the date on social media in the coming months.
Is there anything else we should know?
Sure, I’d love to keep everyone in the loop with new releases and announcements. So feel free to subscribe to my YouTube channel and check out my latest updates!
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Support Asher Laub on Patreon. Download the music via iTunes, stream it on Spotify or click here. Find & follow Asher Laub on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram or visit his Website.
