Laurie, a contemporary music industry student, is learning new skills to help advance his career in music
Anthony Laurie
By Taylor Pedersen, CLA Student Writer - February 26, 2025
Based in Los Angeles, Anthony Laurie balances life as a musician in the rock band Thredge, with his studies as a senior in the College of Liberal Arts’ Contemporary Music Industry (CMI) Ecampus program. After originally earning an associate’s degree in classical guitar performance from his local community college in L.A., Laurie sought more industry-focused training, and a recommendation from a friend led him to the CMI program. “The flexibility of online classes allows me to focus on Thredge while also earning my degree,” Laurie explained.
Through courses in songwriting, entrepreneurship, and music business, Laurie gained practical skills he’s able to directly apply to his music career. His advice to young musicians looking for more experience is to: “Get out there. Find people to play with, whether it’s through social media or local venues. And if you’re considering the CMI program, it’s a great way to learn the business and creative skills you’ll need.”
Laurie is currently interning at Revolver Recordings in L.A., which he’s able to earn academic credit for. The experience has broadened his musical perspective through engineering and production to collaborating with artists in genres outside his comfort zone. “Helping an R&B artist complete an EP was one of the most rewarding projects I’ve worked on. It pushed me creatively and professionally.”
Laurie’s first steps into live performance began at just ten years old. Encouraged by his parents' shared enthusiasm for music, Laurie was drawn to bands like Metallica, sparking a lifelong passion for guitar and performance. His first debut was in middle school talent shows, but his high school years in L.A. marked a turning point. “I played my first real show at a local bar, just me and a backing track,” he said. Soon after, he joined his first band and performed at the famed Whisky a Go Go, a venue that has since become a staple for Thredge.
Thredge began as a partnership between Laurie and drummer Ryan Duswalt, sparked by a backstage meeting at a local venue. “I snuck backstage to surprise him after a show,” Laurie laughed. The pair initially worked long-distance, writing music during the pandemic. The band’s name, a mashup of “thrash” and “edge,” took on deeper significance with their debut album “The New Plague”: a concept record about a fictional plague.
Over time, Thredge has undergone several transformations, from lineup changes to refining their sound. “Recording our first album in ten days was a huge learning experience,” Laurie shared. “We’ve since played everything from packed venues to nearly empty bars, but every show helps us grow.” Recently, Thredge brought on a new lead vocalist and is preparing to record new tracks, including a reimagined version of their popular song “Dysfunctional.”
As graduation nears, Laurie is focused on expanding Thredge’s reach and honing his production skills. “We’re hoping to play some festivals this summer and pitch our new songs to agents and labels,” he shared. Personally, he plans to continue working at Revolver and advancing his expertise in studio production.
For Laurie, the journey is far from over. With his dedication to music and the tools he’s gained through education and experience, he’s well on his way to making a lasting mark in the Industry.