From the outside looking in, it could seem that singer Gallant came out of nowhere before taking the music scene by storm with his debut full-length album, Ology. Fans couldn't get enough of the Bounce-Worthy alum who by the end of 2016 was selling out shows left and right and had earned his first GRAMMY nod in the Best Urban Contemporary Album category. However, in his new documentary, A Legend in the Making, he reveals that his ascent has been anything but a fairytale.
In the mini-doc, which was released as an extension of Sour Patch Kids' The Patch House program, the singer talks about his path to fame and the challenges he encountered along the way. While he has discussed these things before, he goes into further detail about what prompted his move from New York City to Los Angeles and the struggles he faced trying to maintain control over his music. In addition to detailing his own story, the doc includes early supporters of Gallant's career such as Beats 1 Creative Director, Zane Lowe, who is credited with premiering "Weight in Gold" on his radio show.
A Legend in the Making also features interviews from the likes of Quincy Jones, Michael B. Jordan, and Adrian Younge heaping well-deserved praise onto the quiet newcomer. Younge likens his voice to that of a young Michael Jackson, adding that Gallant's lyrical abilities help lead listeners while also giving them a special feeling. Meanwhile, Jordan, who has Snapchatted himself at Gallant's live performances, talks in-depth about his ability to capture the most complex of human emotions, saying "I feel like I"m getting a 12, 13-course meal when I'm listening to his album." In footage taken from a panel discussion hosted by Patch and NYU's Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, Seal adds to the praise, saying, "I see a lot of who I wished I was at his point." Perhaps the highest endorsement of all comes from the legendary Jones, who says, "It sounds like they're paying attention to what makes a great singer."
While the documentary only provides a brief glimpse of the Maryland native's story, it succeeds in providing a lot of insight into the artist who we know today. And with the support of such highly-regarded talents in his corner, there's no doubt that Gallant's star will continue to rise. Check out this intimate look at the talented singer and then tune into the GRAMMY Awards this Sunday to see if he takes home the coveted golden gramophone
