Born in Boston, raised in Madrid, Los Angeles and Minneapolis, Dan Larson, aka Middle Child, now 25 years old, has been creating music for many years. With a devote Soundcloud following making almost all his tracks go into the hundreds of thousands of listeners, Middle Child is an artist on the way up, and we think it's well deserved. If you haven't heard of Middle Child yet, here is a perfect time!
Check out his dope guest mix below as well as super insightful interview we did with Middle Child, and follow him on all the socials so you can say you were on board before he blows up the scene!
MIX
Interview
What got you into making music, specifically Electronic Dance Music?
I started taking piano lessons in 4th grade, and shortly after that I thought that shredding the guitar would be more “cool”. Around the same time, I found out that my dad had played the electric guitar in a garage band growing up. I discovered his classic rock collection, and the rest was history. My taste in music evolved over the years, and it wasn't until after high school that I began producing dubstep/trap music and playing local shows. Along the journey, I have played guitar in different bands, freestyle rapped and even sang/screamed in a metal group!
Who are some of your biggest musical inspirations?
Led Zeppelin, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Blink 182, For Today, August Burns Red, Bassnectar, RL Grime, Volumes, Illenium, Marshmello, & San Holo to name a few.
Where did Middle Child come from? Is it as simple as you being a middle child?
Besides being the middle child of two brothers, the name does have a lot of meaning behind it. There are two sides to the equation-a before and after so to speak. Besides battling with the stereotypical middle child/black sheep syndrome, struggling with what my calling was in life, low self-esteem and being a people pleaser, this in-between path has turned into a huge blessing. I've had to work very hard to overcome all of these negative preconceived notions and difficulties to carve out a unique path for my life. Through the years, I've developed an open mind, cultivated personality, and a willingness to take risks and try new things. My dad and his dad are also both middle children, as well as successful entrepreneurs. I thought it would only make sense to carry on the tradition! 😉
Thanks for the mix! What goes into making a mix like this, and what are some songs in this mix that stand out to you?
Of course! Thank YOU for the opportunity.. I love putting music together and curating different sounds. My mixes usually reflect where I'm at emotionally and what artists are currently influencing me. I tried to emulate a sound to go along with this season of my life. This mix is very special to me. You will find a common theme of love and relationships. A few of my favorite songs in this mix are “Moving On” (feat. Karra) by sober rob, “JUMP” (ft. Nevve) by Droeloe and” Hold On” by Prismo.
What are some things that you like to do in your spare time when you’re not making music?
I spend as much time as I get with my girlfriend.. i mean brand new “fiancé”. I love to work out, go on adventures, catch up with my friends, disc golf, watch movies and laugh.
What does the summer have in store for you?
I recently got engaged to the love of my life, Lindsey, so we've got some work to do with planning a wedding! Besides that, I’m working on lots of new music, a couple collaborations as well as incorporating rapping/singing into my music. Hopefully a trip back to CA to vacation and see family/friends!
Favorite home-cooked meal?
Either a rib eye steak, corn and potatoes or a big juicy burger.
Favorite Junk Food?
Old fashioned glazed doughnuts… I'm actually a recovering doughnut addict… (;
Follow Middle Child
SoundCloud: www.soundcloud.com/middlechildmusica
Facebook: www.facebook.com/middlechildmusica
Twitter: www.twitter.com/middlechilddan
Instagram: www.instagram.com/middlechildmusic
YouTube: www.youtube.com/middlechildmusica
Spotify: play.spotify.com/artist/2hp8yAzOnYRUFMCdot9tzN