We were lucky to catch up with Hongbin Xu recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Hongbin, thanks for joining us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?
I’m a keyboardist and producer based in Los Angeles, California. After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Keyboard Performance from the Musicians Institute, I became a teaching assistant at the school as my day job. I still utilize most of my time dedicated to practice, and networking to be able to pursue my career. I was very lucky to be given opportunities to perform with well-known Chinese Pop artists including Linda Chung, Della Ding, Andy Hui, and more. I also support Los Angeles Artists/Bands including Agent 18, Maya, and The Thrilling End of Everything.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Growing up in a small town in China I always dreamed of performing on a big stage and always seized opportunities to get involved with anything music-related. What really boosted my career was coming to Los Angeles and studying at the Musicians Institute. I got exposed to a huge range of new music that I never heard of and made many friends who helped push me to where I am today. Not only do I play keyboards and piano for live performances, but I also track keyboards for songs as well. I’m most proud that I am able to support the artists I work with. I always try to listen to the message that the artist is trying to deliver and compliment the song the best way I can. There are never hard feelings if my parts don’t resonate with them because ultimately my goal is to serve the song the way the artist wants.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My dream goal is to able to tour with a major pop artist. I have always loved pop, R&B, and dance music. Now that I am playing in bars, casinos, and arenas, I’m very looking forward to being on a bigger stage to feel the energy from the audience.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
I’m always thankful to be able to do what I love to earn a living. Of course, sometimes it’s very tiring to be on the road or constantly rehearsing, but it’s always fulfilling whenever I get on the stage to perform and put on a show. Moreover, If what I write, play and record ever gets to be out on a record, I would feel very grateful that I’m able to share my emotions and even resonate with listeners.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongbinxu_/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@hongbinxu_
- Other: SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-503345006