London Grammar: “Longevity is our ambition”

In just a over decade, the trio of Hannah Reid, Dominic “Dot” Major, and Dan Rothman have skyrocketed to the top of the music world. Their refined, atmospheric pop sound paired with Hannah’s catchy, unique voice have set London Grammar apart from the rest. Since their 2013 debut album, If You Wait, which earned them a Qobuzissime, the band has had two albums top the UK charts, received numerous accolades, played in increasingly large venues, and even opened for British pop juggernauts Coldplay during their recent tour.

But if they had to choose between fame and longevity, the choice would be simple. Not tempted by the spotlight, the trio consider themselves “outsiders” among their peers, admitting they’re “awkward when it comes to networking” and lack a defined visual identity. Without any formal music training or industry connections, London Grammar came together organically, rehearsing their music between art-history and literature classes at Nottingham University.

For Dan and Dot, industry recognition came naturally, but it was more challenging for Hannah Reid. Entering the music world before the #MeToo movement, she quickly encountered widespread misogyny. Her struggles as a perfectionist battling low self-confidence are reflected in their recent 2021 album, Californian Soil.

In this new album, The Greatest Love, the band are deeply introspective about their journey towards self-acceptance, with Hannah specifically showing she’s reached new artistic heights. In a rare interview, the trio opened up about their upward trajectory, caught between enthusiastic fans and a more reluctant industry. They shared their insights on the new album, their ambitions for the future, and a few memorable stories along the way.