Liam Lawson Shares Throwback Video Ahead of First Live Performance in Over a Decade

Formula 1 driver Liam Lawson embraced Austin’s world-renowned live music culture on Thursday night, stepping far away from the cockpit to perform his first live music gig in over a decade. Ahead of taking the wheel for Racing Bulls at the Circuit of the Americas, the New Zealand driver reunited with family and longtime friends for a special performance at the Esses Bazaar.

Prior to hitting the stage, Lawson shared a throwback video clip on social media showcasing an early session alongside his brother and childhood bandmates. The nostalgic post quickly gained traction among motorsport enthusiasts, gathering more than 87,000 likes and surpassing 370 comments as supporters tuned in to his off-track talents leading into the race weekend.

A Childhood Passion Rekindled on Sixth Street

The Thursday evening gig at Inn Cahoots on East Sixth Street marked the first time Lawson had played in front of a live crowd since he was a child. Taking the stage alongside his brother Marcus and childhood friends Thomas and Harrison, the quartet showcased a bond formed during their youth in New Zealand.

I played in front of a crowd when I was 11, and that was the last time I did it. It’s been a long time, Lawson told People before the show.

Lawson’s musical roots were cultivated by his father, who introduced both brothers to the instrument at an early age. Lawson spent seven years studying for formal guitar examinations and even composed original music as a youngster, though he currently has no plans to resume songwriting.

Music’s been in my life and my family’s life since I was very, very young, Lawson continued. He got me and my brother into guitar when we were very young. We grew up basically playing together.

Reflecting on the rare opportunity to perform publicly as an adult, Lawson noted the significance of the Austin reunion. It’s a cool opportunity to do this with my brother and a couple of friends that I’ve grown up playing with, Lawson told the media. To be honest, we haven’t done this for like 10 years.

F1 Stars Turn Out for Country Covers Set

Wielding a custom signature Taylor guitar crafted specifically for him, Lawson led his band through a set dominated by country music covers. The intimate venue drew several notable figures from the Formula 1 community who arrived to support the Kiwi driver, including former teammate Daniel Ricciardo alongside young talents Isack Hadjar and Arvid Lindblad.

Following the performance, the Racing Bulls team celebrated the occasion online, describing the gathering as an unforgettable evening filled with music and friends.

Why This Matters

Austin, widely celebrated as the live music capital of the world, regularly offers a unique festival atmosphere during the United States Grand Prix weekend. Lawson’s public concert offers a rare glimpse into the personal life and diverse skill set of modern grand prix drivers during high-pressure race weeks. While the concert provided a creative diversion, the competitive focus immediately shifts back to the asphalt: Lawson heads into the Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas positioned ninth in the drivers’ championship with 75 points, aiming to deliver crucial results for the Racing Bulls squad.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Liam Lawson last perform live before the Austin gig?

Prior to the Thursday concert ahead of the United States Grand Prix, Liam Lawson had not played guitar in front of a live crowd since he was 11 years old.

Who joined Liam Lawson on stage during the performance?

Lawson performed alongside his brother Marcus and his childhood friends Thomas and Harrison, playing a set made up mostly of country covers.

Which Formula 1 figures attended Lawson’s concert?

The audience at Inn Cahoots on East Sixth Street included Daniel Ricciardo, Isack Hadjar, and Arvid Lindblad.