The Leaving Kind (Cloverdale) is the sound of an artist taking stock of a youngish career that’s already gained considerable momentum. Leon Majcen has been steadily building a following for his understated mix of country, folk and Americana on opening slots with Margo Price, Turnpike Troubadours, Trampled By Turtles and American Aquarium. The son of Bosnian refugees, Majcen grew up in Safety Harbor, Fla., listening to his father’s classic rock and singer/songwriter vinyl, and he obviously picked up some pointers. Produced by Patrick Lyons (Colter Wall, Josh Meloy, Noeline Hofmann), The Leaving Kind is an affecting composite of traditional instrumentation and unvarnished storytelling.
Now four albums in, the 27-year-old is still figuring out how to build a sustainable life in Nashville. MAGNET’s Hobart Rowland reached out to Majcen on the road to discuss the realities of touring—and why he’ll never regret being a “yes” man.
How conscious were you of avoiding romanticizing the road on The Leaving Kind while still capturing what you love about it?
I was past the point of romanticizing. I was dreading it. I still love touring and getting to play these songs live, but it’s tough living out of a suitcase full time. I wouldn’t trade the experiences I’ve gotten out of it for the world, but it’s always nice to get a break from anything.
You grew up watching your parents work jobs they didn’t necessarily love while encouraging you to pursue something you did. How did that affect your decision to choose music as a livelihood?
I just got the music bug out of nowhere at nine years old. Nobody in my family played. My dad liked good music and brought me up on the Rolling Stones, CCR, Kris Kristofferson and Bob Dylan. I found out later that he wanted to play music as a kid but never got the chance. I figured that’s why he might’ve been so supportive. Guess it always comes from somewhere.
“Turn Me In” brings out a more playful side—and it made me wonder: Is the narrator of a Leon Majcen song always interchangeable with the man himself?
The narrator of any of my songs is always me.
You’ve toured with some well-known names. What have you learned from watching how established artists sustain a life on the road without allowing it to consume everything else?
Balance is always key. When you start getting after it on the road, balance isn’t at the forefront of your mind. I was trying to experience as much fun shit as I could at the beginning. In the long run, it becomes a game of sustainability and longevity.
You’ve said that sometimes a lack of balance is what it takes to “pull off the impossible.” How long do you think that philosophy can last?
I said yes to every opportunity that came my way these past four years, and I don’t regret it. But saying yes to everything isn’t exactly the spitting definition of living life on your own terms. I think sometimes really letting yourself live for the sake of your craft comes with its own set of consequences. In my case, it was the hope that I’d get to live a little easier later on. I’m just thankful it’s panning out.
See Leon Majcen live.
