On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with singer and songwriter Lila Forde for a conversation that feels like it’s unfolding mid-song, equal parts instinct, craft, and heart. I actually discovered Lila in the most “Bandwich” way possible: while preparing for my episode with Larry Goldings, I heard her voice in a video and immediately texted a few musician friends saying, “You need to hear this singer.” That moment led to this conversation.
Lila shares how her collaboration with Larry Goldings has been developing, and the creative process behind it: record everything, follow the spark, and build outward from the accidental moments that feel alive. Hearing her describe that approach, trusting discovery instead of forcing results, made me even more excited about what they’re creating together.
We spend a lot of time talking about voice, not range or technique, but identity. Lila recalls a powerful moment from John Legend during her time on The Voice: "Don’t try to out-sing anyone… just be Lila." That idea opens up a deeper conversation about influence versus imitation, the pressure to fit into genre boxes, and the constant temptation to chase whatever sound the internet is rewarding in the moment.
Lila’s musical roots run deep, from classical piano at home to years in the Seattle Girls Choir, and later jazz studies that reshaped how she hears harmony and melody. She explains how ear training and solfege still influence her songwriting today, and why understanding just a little bit of theory can unlock creative freedom for singers.
We also talk honestly about the gig-life reality that many musicians know well: some of your biggest growth happens when nobody is paying attention. For Lila, that meant years of hotel-lobby gigs, four hours a night, five nights a week, where she learned to experiment, take risks, and build a durable musical voice. We close by talking about her debut album Vessel, recorded live with the band in just three days, and how she’s stepping into a bigger creative leadership role as she works on her next record.
Key Takeaways
- Authenticity defines artistic voice — the goal isn’t to out-sing others, but to sound like yourself.
- Creative discovery often comes from accidents — capturing and following spontaneous musical moments can lead to powerful ideas.
- Influence is different from imitation — artists grow by absorbing influences while protecting their own identity.
- Musical training builds creative vocabulary — ear training, harmony, and theory can open doors for singers.
- Gig experience shapes real musicianship — long, quiet gigs often provide the space to experiment and grow.
- Recording live captures energy — tracking Vessel with the band in three days preserved the immediacy of the music.
- Leadership evolves with each project — Lila is stepping further into the creative driver’s seat with her next record.
Music from the Episode
- Temptation - Lila Forde
- All I Expected - Lila Forde
- Brick by Brick - Lila Forde
About the Podcast
The Bandwich Tapes is a podcast hosted by Brad Williams, featuring conversations with musicians, composers, producers, and creative thinkers about their musical journeys. Each episode explores the influences, decisions, and experiences that shape a life in music—one conversation at a time.
Connect with the Show
Email: contact@thebandwichtapes.com