Acclaimed musician Leon Bridges is a man of many talents, bridging sounds and styles in perfect harmony.

Photographed by JACK BOOL

Often described as a throwback to the ‘60s, Leon Bridges is unique in a sea of modernness. His soulful sounds bring back to life the classic rhythm and blues with a soothing southern sound to which anyone can groove.

How do you incorporate your Texas roots into your music/art?

My Texas roots are the foundation of my music. Growing up in Fort Worth, I was surrounded by a rich tapestry of blues, gospel, and country music. You can hear these influences in the soulful and sometimes raw storytelling in my songs. Texas blends many cultures and sounds, and I try to bring that diversity into my music, whether it’s through the instruments we use or the stories I tell.

Photographed by JACK BOOL

What do you have coming up on the horizon?

I’m excited about this album coming out and the tour, and I’m really looking forward to connecting with fans and sharing this new music. It’s my most personal record to date, and I can’t wait to play the new music down in Austin.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration in everyday life—in people’s stories, my own experiences, and just observing the world around me. Sometimes, it’s in a conversation with a friend, a walk through the city, or a memory from my childhood. Music has a way of capturing emotions that words alone can’t, and I draw from everything I feel and see.

Photographed by JACK BOOL

Your style in the music and fashion world is very eclectic and vintage. Are there certain people you look up to for inspiration?

Absolutely. I look up to style icons like Marvin Gaye and Sam Cooke. They had a way of being timeless yet distinct in their fashion choices. I’m inspired by the street style of the 70s and 80s—there was something so cool and effortless about that era. Artists like Jimi Hendrix and Prince have been influences, not just for their sound but for their fearless approach to fashion and self-expression.

If you could trade wardrobes with anyone, who would it be and why?

I’d probably trade wardrobes with André 3000. His style is bold and eclectic, and he always makes a statement, which is something I really admire. He has this incredible ability to mix vintage with contemporary, and every outfit tells a story. That’s the kind of vibe I love.

Headlining ACL is a huge honor! Do you have any big goals you would like to accomplish—dream collab, perhaps?

Headlining ACL is definitely a dream come true. Working with someone like Kendrick Lamar or Alicia Keys would be incredible. They have such powerful voices and messages.

Photographed by JACK BOOL

Describe your style in three words.

Classic, contemporary, eclectic.

Your career is a very expressive, artistic one. Is there anything your fans don’t know from your outlets—a fun factoid they’d never be able to tell from your fashions, writings, or voice?

Something that might surprise my fans is that I love to cook. Whenever I’m not on the road or in the studio, I spend time experimenting with different recipes. There’s something special about making a good meal for friends and family.

**“TEXAS BLENDS MANY CULTURES AND SOUNDS, AND I TRY TO BRING THAT DIVERSITY INTO MY MUSIC, WHETHER IT’S THROUGH THE INSTRUMENTS WE USE OR THE STORIES I TELL.” –**LEON BRIDGES