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Leon Budrow: The Heart of a Rising Star

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If you have ever enjoyed a live concert or a male revue show, you undoubtedly love a good time with live entertainment, but what if you were to combine the two?  With catchy beats and hooks coupled with the looks and charisma of a charming male entertainer, Leon Budrow has done just that. Below is our interview with him.

BigTimeDaily Team – As a musician, how do you balance branding yourself as a male entertainer?

BUDROW – For me it is easy because it is just who I am, I am a male entertainer.  I work for a great male revue company called Hunk-O-Mania where I manage, host and perform at our Philadelphia location every weekend.  My music career has been heavily influenced by my experiences at the Hunk-O-Mania male revue.  My songs often reference the show and my experience as a host/MC has really influenced my stage presence as musician in a great way.

BTD – You have built quite a fan base for yourself, having toured the country with various Pop Stars such as O-Town and Aaron Carter.  How do you stay connected with all of your fans?

BUDROW – I have been very blessed to have met so many amazing people throughout the country.  I believe that fan interaction is incredibly important, especially to show thanks and love back to those that show love and support to you.  I take pictures with as many fans as I can and I try very hard to respond to everybody’s comments and tags on my social media posts.  I also do random free merch contest giveaways, and a segment on my Instagram Story every Thursday that I call “Q&A Thursday” where I can personally interact with them answering their questions.

BTD – Given your experience touring the country, are there any particular cities that you’d love to tour again?  Any new cities you’d like to visit that you have not yet experienced?

BUDROW – It’s hard to pick a particular city considering I’d love to tour them all again.  I had great experiences touring the Mid West and North East, performing in great cities such as Easton, Pittsburgh, Chicago, Louisville, Cleveland, Boston and many more.  I’d really love to visit them all again soon on my next tour.  As for new areas, I’d love to tour the West Coast and head down south a little more, maybe hit Tennessee, Maryland, Florida and Texas.

BTD – As a male dancer for Hunk-O-Mania, you mentioned you work at the Philadelphia location.  Are there any other Hunk-O-Mania locations you’d like to experience?

BUDROW – I have worked at a couple other Hunk-O-Mania shows filling in as a performer at our Atlantic City and Hamptons shows.  I believe we are currently in 19 different cities.  I’d like to work at any one of shows honestly, but I’d really like to experience our show in Nashville.  I love Nashville and it would be great to get to work at that show sometime.

BTD – You promote yourself as a Pop | Hip-Hop Artist, why is that?

BUDROW – I enjoy all types of music, from pop, rap, rock, country, etc.  If I listen to it all, why can’t I create it all?  My sound is unique in that I am versatile and like to record different genres based on how I am feeling.  Sometimes I sing, sometimes I rap, sometimes my instrumentals are very edm or pop sounding and others are heavier beats.  One day I’d even like to write and record a country song.  I enjoy variety and the creative process in general.

BTD – You’ve appeared in various film and tv projects such as the Television show “Younger” and an upcoming role in the Zach Snyder Netflix Film “Army of The Dead” , is acting something you’d to pursue more?

BUDROW – Yes, absolutely.  I love acting, I would really like to become deeper involved with it and build a name for myself in Hollywood one day.

BTD – You live a very fast paced life with work, music and dancing.  As a professional male dancer for Hunk-O-Mania, what do you do to stay in shape?

BUDROW – Fitness has been a big part of my life.  As a former wrestler, fitness competitor and current recreational hockey player, I have always been athlete and use sports as a great way to stay fit.  I play on three hockey teams which provides me great cardio.  In the gym I focus on intense weight training, incorporating techniques such as drop sets, super sets, and rest pause sets into my workouts with minimal rest.  I chase the burn, the hotter it burns the harder it dries!

BTD – More than just an entertainer, you also work a full time job during the day.  How do you stay focused on all of your projects?

BUDROW – I have a great job as a Regional Manager for the best GNC Franchise Operator in the company.  I love what I do and I am very fortunate to be surrounded by great people at all times.  To stay focused, I really just try to be active at all times and make the best of every moment.  One thing to the next, I don’t like to waste time.  Wasted time or unproductive time is worst than wasted money.

BTD – As a jack of all trades, what would you be doing if not for GNC, Hunk-O-Mania and your music career?

BUDROW – I don’t think I would be doing anything else.  I would continue chasing all of my goals until I achieve them.  Like I said above, this is just who I am.  To me everything connects.

BTD – You seem very positive and confident, how do you handle criticism and rejection?

BUDROW – I have faced an immense amount of criticism and rejection, just like everybody has.  The key is to take what you can from it in a productive, positive manner and not let it stop you.  I was told by many people I couldn’t be a dancer or a singer, but I stayed true to myself and worked to become what I wanted to be.  Don’t let others bring you down, just keep going.

BTD – Describe your personal style

BUDROW – If you’ve ever seen me before a show or in my down time, you’ll see me rocking nothing but grey sweatpants and some sort of long sleeve shirt.  Right before all shows I switch out of this to something flashier, like black skinny jeans and a black t shirt.  My style is definitely black on black everything, typically accessorized with some chains, a watch and hat.

BTD – What two accessories can’t you leave the house without?

BUDROW – My cell phone and my watch, or my crystals.  I always have to have a crystal of some sort with me in hand or in my pocket.

BTD – You often use the word “Dreamin” in your music branding, what is your message with that?

BUDROW – I really believe in doing what you love.  Even if you can’t do it as a career, at least pursue a hobby around whatever your passion is.  If you wanted to be a professional hockey player, sign up for a recreational league.  If you wanted to be a marine biologist, take up a scuba diving class.  I believe we should pursue whatever makes us happy in some form, no matter what people say or how busy we are.  Live your dreams and take action, that is the principle behind why I make use of the word Dreamin.

BTD – What is your life motto?

BUDROW – “A life filled with regret is just a life wasted away”

A great lyric from a humble man, inspiring others to always live life to their fullest.

The idea of Bigtime Daily landed this engineer cum journalist from a multi-national company to the digital avenue. Matthew brought life to this idea and rendered all that was necessary to create an interactive and attractive platform for the readers. Apart from managing the platform, he also contributes his expertise in business niche.

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Entertainment

Notes from the Heart: Lartist Yan on Music, Motivation, and ‘Second Chance’

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Photo courtesy of Lartist Yan 

By Mj Toledo 

US rising singer, songwriter, producer, and beatmaker Lartist Yan has always believed that music is a universal language, and his recent rise in the industry proves he’s fluent in it. With his new hit song “Second Chance” and upcoming tour, fans nationwide eagerly anticipate his old-school soul and contemporary flair, as Lartist Yan blends genres such as Country Blues, Reggae, Pop, RnB/Soul, Ballad, Folk, and Soul/Blues into his captivating performances. The rising star discusses his songwriting process and how he is turning real-life challenges into chart-topping hits that speak to the soul.

Q: Can you share the creative process behind “Second Chance”? What inspired the melody and lyrics?

Lartist Yan: Of course. “Second Chance” was quite an experience for me. It all started one night when I was sleeping, and I suddenly heard this melody playing in my ears, as if someone was playing it to me from afar. It was a mysterious, compelling melody that demanded to be heard. I immediately woke up and started working on it, trying to capture the essence of what I had heard in my dream.

The lyrics were born from a personal experience of betrayal and disappointment. I had been let down by someone I loved at the time, and this song became a way for me to process those emotions. 

But more than just expressing pain, I wanted “Second Chance” to offer hope. The message is that everyone deserves a second chance and that failure can often be the beginning of something great. 

Q: Your music is like a combination of various genres. How do you balance these different influences in your songwriting?

Lartist Yan: What an interesting question. I really do not have a strict formula. I just let my inner self guide me. Listening to so many genres gave me a broad musical palette to work.

When I write a song, I naturally draw from these influences, picking elements that best express the emotion or story I am trying to convey.

We should not confine music to rigid genre boundaries. Instead, I aim to create a sound that is authentic to me, often resulting in a fusion of styles. For example, in “Second Chance,” you will hear elements of old-school RnB mixed with modern pop production techniques. This honors my musical roots while also creating something fresh.

Q: “Second Chance” has quickly climbed the charts in the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK). Why do you think listeners love it so much?

Lartist Yan: I believe the universal theme of hope and redemption in “Second Chance” resonates most with listeners. We have all experienced setbacks in life, and the idea that we can bounce back and deserve another opportunity speaks to people. I am truly humbled and grateful that “Second Chance” has touched so many people and found its way onto the charts.

Q: You have mentioned multiple times that your music addresses real-life challenges. How do you translate personal experiences into chart toppers? 

Lartist Yan: Translating personal experiences into universal themes is at the heart of my songwriting process. I believe that even though our individual experiences are unique, many often share the emotions we feel. 

When I write about a personal challenge or situation, I focus on the emotions and the broader lessons learned rather than getting caught up in specific details that only apply to me.

For example, with “Second Chance,” I think about how others might relate to my feelings and what words or melodies might resonate with them. It is about finding the common thread in our human experiences so listeners can see themselves in the music, even if their circumstances differ.

Q: Can you tell us about your upcoming single, “The Wave of Love”? How does it differ from or build upon “Second Chance”?

Lartist Yan: While “Second Chance” focuses on themes of redemption and new beginnings, “The Wave of Love” explores the power of genuine, true love and how authentic love can impact our lives.

Musically, “The Wave of Love” builds upon the soulful foundation of “Second Chance” but introduces new elements that reflect the song’s theme. You will hear a more expansive sound. I cannot wait for everyone to listen to it and experience this new aspect of my artistry.

Q: You’ve won several prestigious awards before releasing your first single. How have these accolades impacted your career?

Lartist Yan: Winning those awards in Russia was a turning point for me. It was not just about the recognition; it also gave me a huge confidence boost in my abilities as a performer.

When starting, you often doubt yourself, wondering if you have what it takes. But standing on those stages, receiving the Golden Voice of Russia and the other awards, was like a confirmation that I was on the right path.

Those accolades also opened up a lot of doors for me. I got to share the stage with some major stars in Moscow, which was an incredible learning experience. It exposed me to a broader audience and helped me understand what it takes to perform consistently at a high level. But more than anything, it fueled my passion to keep pushing, improving, and bringing my music to an even bigger stage – which is why I am so excited about my move to the U.S. market now.

Q: As both a songwriter and beatmaker, how do you approach the production process for your tracks?

Lartist Yan: It is very organic and intuitive. It usually starts with a feeling or an experience I want to express. Sometimes, like with “Second Chance,” the melody comes to me in a dream, and I build from there. 

Other times, I will start with a beat or a chord progression that captures the emotion I am trying to convey. I do not like to force the process. I believe the best music comes when you let it flow naturally.

Q: How do you balance creating personally meaningful and commercially appealing music?

Lartist Yan: That is a great question, and I think about it a lot. For me, the key is to always start with authenticity. If a song is significant to me, if it comes from a genuine place of emotion or experience, then it has the potential to connect with others. That connection is what makes music commercially appealing in the long run.

Of course, I am not naive about the realities of the music industry. I pay attention to trends and what is resonating with audiences. But instead of trying to copy what is popular, I look for ways to incorporate those elements into my style. 

Q: You’re preparing for your first U.S. tour. What can fans expect from your live performances?

Lartist Yan: I am incredibly excited about my first U.S. tour. Regarding the setlist, I’ll perform songs from my debut album, including ‘Second Chance,’ some memorable covers, and tracks from my debut EP. I also plan to include interactive elements to connect with the audience.

My band and I have been rehearsing extensively to guarantee that we deliver a tight, energetic show that brings the studio recordings to life. Whether you are a long-time fan or new to my music, I promise an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

We will start the “Discover Me” Tour in Los Angeles, then head to Washington, D.C., and New York City. After that, we will be in Seattle, Chicago, and wrap up in Dallas in 2024-2025.

Q: What are your long-term goals as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?

Lartist Yan: My long-term vision is to become a global artist who can touch people’s lives through music, regardless of where they are from or what language they speak. I also want to create music that entertains and brings positive change. 

To achieve these goals, I am focusing on a few key things. First, I am constantly working on my craft – writing, producing, and performing as much as possible to keep improving. I am also very committed to building genuine connections with my audience through music and platforms like social media. 

The upcoming tour is a big part of this strategy. It is about getting out there and connecting with people face-to-face. It is a long journey, and I am excited about every step of it.

For longtime fans and new listeners, the upcoming US  artist’s music provides a fresh take grounded in real experiences. With a new song and an upcoming tour in the pipeline, the world is about to get a “Second Chance” at falling in love with music all over again through Lartist Yan. 

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