Every generation spawns new prolific singer-songwriters that represent that generation, and for Gen Z, one of the most promising voices is Canadian singer-songwriter Leith Ross. The beloved artist will headline their largest U.S. show to date at The Ford in Los Angeles on October 19. Joining Ross will be tofusmell, the DIY project of songwriter Rae Chen. Expect a charming evening full of raw indie folk with these two endearing voices who write oh-so-real and relatable lyrics, no matter which generation you come from.
Tickets to Leith Ross at The Ford are $35. Grab them while you can or subscribe to our newsletter for a chance to win a pair of tickets. We’re all about sharing the love here at Grimy Goods and giving everyone the opportunity to experience live music. You’ll be one of the first to know when we drop the giveaway. Pssst. It’s happening this week!
Like numerous talented young artists, Leith Ross was a product of TikTok fame. While many Millenial and Gen X artists have struggled with sharing their music (aka promoting their music) on social media, specifically TikTok, the process came naturally for Leith Ross. In fact, it’s how the Ottawa-born singer-songwriter first went viral in 2021 with “We’ll Never Have Sex.” They were just simply sharing their songs. There was no hair and makeup, no multiple cameras, nor a fancy set — it was just Leith Ross with their phone’s camera and a guitar (oh, and their entire heart and soul).
Fans of Phoebe Bridgers, Nemahsis, Arlo Parks, Julien Baker, and Laufey will instantly vibe with Leith Ross. Similar to the above artists, Ross wears their heart on their sleeve. Completely open for all to enter their world and commune over like-minded feelings, thoughts, and even fears — Ross has created more of a community than a fan base. Any quick scan of their TikTok will show just how engaged and supportive Ross is with the people who find comfort in their music. Whether singing about love, or creating a safe space for the queer experience, and, most recently, speaking up about colonialism, imperialism and the ongoing Palestinian genocide, Ross is truly a magical, unfiltered voice in music. And that is precisely why they’re so loved.
No longer an independent artist, Leith Ross signed with major label Republic Records, a division of Universal Music Group, in 2022, alongside labelmates Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Drake, etc. Their debut album, To Learn More, was released on May 19, 2023. Despite being on the roster of quite the label giant, Ross would like to one day have a “queer anti-capitalist agenda” and we’re so here for it.
While this here independent music blog didn’t have the chance to flow with Leith Ross about politics, capitalism, and other things that matter, especially in music, their label did select a few questions from our list. Check out what Leith Ross shared below, and be sure to catch them at their L.A. date at The Ford on Oct. 19. We can’t recommend their show enough, especially if all of the above pulls at those heartstrings as they do ours.
In one sentence, how would you describe your music?
Leith Ross: Honestly, I have no idea and rarely know what to say when asked this question! But my best and closest guess is that it is introspective music about trying to figure out how to fit into the world. I’m not even going to attempt a genre descriptor haha. I’m scared of keeping myself from exploring new things.
Which artists from the past and present inspire you?
Leith Ross: I have been inspired a lot by storytellers like Kris Kristofferson or Tracy Chapman, and by the more earnest direct approach like that of Labi Siffre, who is my favourite artist at the moment. I am obsessed with the way his music seems to just say exactly what it means, it makes me feel more free to express myself. Current up and coming artists, I feel the most inspired by my friends, been listening to a lot of Tofusmell and Kennedy Mann, two incredible musicians who I am blessed to love and know. They have a way of connecting me with important and old parts of myself.
Your upcoming headline date at the Ford, one of my favorite LA venues btw, is also your largest U.S. show to date! How does that feel? What are you most excited about?
Leith Ross: I feel really honoured and grateful!! Mostly I am excited to feel a sense of togetherness with the people who listen to my music. I love recognizing each other in a way we can’t remotely.
When you’re in L.A., are there any things you especially love doing while visiting?
Leith Ross: My very favourite thing to do is whale watch, I take every opportunity I can to get out on the ocean and look for giant living things. It’s a feeling I can’t really replicate in any other part of my life, and it brings me back down to earth. I love feeling small.
How about places to eat? Do you have any favorites in Los Angeles?
Leith Ross: When I stay in Silver Lake, I am a regular at Millie’s Cafe, and I love it dearly.
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