Meet Your Musician | Luke Francis

Assembly Listening Sessions launches this month and we are pleased to invite you into our space for some listening pleasure, but until then we thought we’d warm you up with an interview with our musicians. We recently had the privilege of sitting down with singer-songwriter Luke Francis to unfold some layers and to learn about the mind behind the melodies, where Luke generously shared insights into his musical journey, inspirations, and the vibrant influence of the Seattle music community.

Can we entice you to share some thoughts behind your name, or other names or iterations you toyed with when naming this project?

I decided a couple years ago that the songs I was writing felt like they belonged to a singer/songwriter project rather than a band project so I started playing under my own name. I’ve had a lot of previous band names I’ve been involved with though including “Push to Open” named after the words on a trash can.

What initially drew you to music? And what keeps you in music?

I was given a guitar in 7th grade and I just started playing and haven’t ever stopped or looked back.

Seattle has a rich musical history, from grunge to indie. How has the city's music scene influenced your sound and style?

One of my musical heroes Brandi Carlile is from Seattle and I feel her presence presiding over the Americana scene here. I got to meet her a couple years ago in a restaurant that’s since closed down. She has my old band’s cd in her little hybrid car haha. 

Can you share a memorable moment from your musical career that has had a lasting impact on you as an artist?

Playing zoo tunes opening for Ziggy Marley with an old band. Never forgotten the rush of that many faces.

Your favorite song you’ve written…and why?

It’s usually the newest one! Which means I’ll probably definitely be playing a new one for this show 

Collaborations can be powerful in the music industry. Have you had any memorable collaborations that have shaped your music in unexpected ways?

I just made my first record and got to collaborate with Phoebe Bridgers’ guitarist, Harrison Whitford. I’m a huge fan of his and it was really special to have him involved in the songs. 

Seattle's landscape and culture are often reflected in its art. How does the city's atmosphere and surroundings influence the themes and emotions conveyed in your music?

I usually end up writing the most in the fall and winter and I think that’s related to the northwestern climate. It’s a good rhythm for me to be in, quieting down and working on new material as it slows and quiets outside. 

Talk about a/some projects you have in the works that we could share with our readers?

My first solo record is due spring of 2024! You can follow me on Instagram: @heyitslukefrancis for info about upcoming shows and releases.

In this beautiful tapestry that has yet to unfold, Luke Francis emerges not just as a musician but as a storyteller, weaving his experiences, influences, and aspirations into the rich fabric of Seattle's musical legacy in his debut of his solo record. Please join us this Saturday November 18th to hear a sneak peek from his album and stay tuned for the new record!