Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin Dan Reynolds
8 snips
Jun 18, 2025 
Dan Reynolds, lead vocalist of Imagine Dragons, shares his journey from religious upbringing to rock stardom. He discusses the challenges of balancing faith and music, touching on the loneliness of his Mormon mission. Reynolds reveals insights into songwriting, mental health, and the importance of creativity without pressure. He reflects on the evolution of their sound from covers to originals and the highs and lows of fame, emphasizing how personal struggles shaped his artistry and led to founding the LOVELOUD Foundation for LGBTQ+ youth.
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Spiritual Crisis Sparks Songwriting
- Dan Reynolds experienced a spiritual crisis at 12 that drove him to songwriting as an escape.
- Raised in a strict Mormon home, he struggled with faith but found music as a refuge.
Mission Experience Shapes Dan's Growth
- Dan served a two-year Mormon mission in Nebraska, enduring strict rules and intense daily routines.
- He faced rejection frequently but became skilled at connecting and baptizing people.
Long Cover Gigs Built Skills
- Imagine Dragons played 6-hour cover gigs at hotels in Las Vegas to make money early on.
- These gigs sharpened their live performance skills and helped them sell EPs.