Liam Lawson set for live music set at US Grand Prix

Liam Lawson is accustomed to performing under pressure, but next week in Austin, the Racing Bulls driver will face a different kind of challenge – one where a fast getaway and a perfectly executed overtake won't earn him any applause.

The Kiwi will trade his racing suit for a guitar to headline the VCARB Garage Sessions ahead of the United States Grand Prix, bringing his musical ambitions to the stage on October 22.

Billed as "Liam Lawson & Friends", the performance at Inn Cahoots forms part of the Esses Bazaar event. Lawson will be joined by his brother Marcus and childhood friends Thomas and Harrison, making it a special occasion for the 24-year-old.

From racing pressure to stage fright

Finding time to rehearse amid the demands of an F1 season is hardly straightforward. Lawson currently sits ninth in the drivers' standings with 75 points, while Racing Bulls occupies fifth place in the constructors' championship.

The RB charger admits that preparing for a live performance presents its own challenges.

"It’s one of those situations where you never feel fully prepared. You can always do more, but I have such a specific job that this can be difficult to fit into my routine," Lawson explained.

Nevertheless, sharing the stage with people he has known since childhood makes the experience particularly rewarding.

"Excited, but also very, very nervous. To have my brother and childhood friends with me, who I’ve played with since I was eight years old, is pretty cool."

Def Leppard and a childhood promise

Lawson's musical tastes were shaped by his father's record collection, with 1980s rock providing the soundtrack to his early years. His first concert came with a little parental encouragement.

"I grew up listening to my dad’s music. 80s rock, mainly. The first concert I went to was Def Leppard when I was eight or nine.

"My dad told me that if I passed my guitar exam with a distinction, he’d let me go, and I did. Growing up, John Mayer was an inspiration too. He’s very good and his music knowledge and songwriting are very cool. I like the older stuff."

• Read also: 'Proud' Lawson strengthened RB case with Singapore charge

The Austin line-up also includes country singer-songwriters Jonny Capeci, Scoot Teasley and Jess Farren, alongside Alison Nichols and Drake Milligan.

With his brother and childhood friends beside him, Lawson will have a familiar support crew when the music starts. Whether that helps settle his nerves remains to be seen.

For once, the F1 driver’s performance won't be measured in lap times or championship points. He just needs to make sure he hits the right notes.

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