Interview: GoldFord talks ‘Walk With Me’ on major commercials, Danger Mouse & Bill Withers

by Andrew Braithwaite

L.A based singer-songwriter GoldFord is back with a relatable anthem which couldn't be more fitting. When ‘Walk With Me’ was recently shared on major platforms, the catchy number had already been used on several large advertising campaigns and TV programmes.

Some may already recognize his music from Jeep, CocaCola and Brawny commercials, however, Goldford has previously racked up 30 plus million streams with his debut ‘Upside Down’ resulting in Kygo, Sam Feldt and X Ambassadors enlisting him as a collaborator.

I caught up with GoldFord to ask some further questions about him as an artist.

Your recent song ‘Walk With Me’ couldn’t be more fitting for recent times, and several huge corporate names have used the song on their TV commercials. Can you tell us a little more about this, and what kind of extra opportunities this has given you? 

Absolutely. I wrote “Walk with Me” at the beginning of the lockdown. We didn't really understand what was happening. The news kept shifting everyday regarding the state of the world. It felt like collectively everyone was about to loose it...including myself. I wrote it from the perspective of what do I need to hear at this moment. It came out really quick and easy. Within a few days of finishing the song it was sent to Brawny paper towels.  They were doing a community initiative highlighting individuals in their communities going above and beyond to help folks hit hard by Corona. It felt incredible having this song to support that effort. Shortly after that... a hospital group wanted to use it... then it landed the Grey's anatomy season premiere. They used it in the final scene for the episode montage. I was completely blown away. That has always been a dream of mine. All of these incredible opportunities exposed the song to so many new people. The messages I've received from people have been the most incredible part.

I believe ‘Walk With Me’ was one of the top Shazamed songs for around 6 weeks, and I can imagine this might have been a result of the TV commercials - this clearly shows the interest and impact you’re having on a pretty random public audience. How does it feel to be gaining this kind of recognition?

It’s pretty exciting. It’s an amazing feeling to connect with so many people. I’m so lucky to get to do this. 

Are you working on any further releases?

Yes! 4 EP’s in the works. 

Who are your main influences as an artist?

Bill Withers, Donnie Hathaway, Van Morrison, Michael Kiwinuka.

How do you best describe your style of music?

Soul with a twinge of pop.

Have you got a dream collaboration that you would like to team up with?

I would love to work with Danger Mouse. Everything he does feels fresh and classic.

How have you been spending your time whilst in lockdown?

Making music, cooking up a storm, hanging with my COVID puppy, Nelly Furtado, Hiking, biking and trying to be in nature as much as possible. 

Do you have any plans to get touring once restrictions are lifted?

Unfortunately it's hard to make plans officially until we know more about when we get our beloved live music back. But I’d love to head to Europe ASAP!

What has been your best gig or show you have played to date?

When I first moved to LA a few years ago, I played a tribute show to Bill Withers. Bill showed up, got on stage, played Lean on Me with us and then shared some incredible wisdom. 

Have you got a message for your followers and fans?

Thank you for your love and belief. I’m excited to share so much new music with you.

Thanks GoldFord - all the best for the future!

Listen to 'Walk With Me' below:

Andrew Braithwaite
Author: Andrew Braithwaite
Andrew is the founder and Managing Director of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.