INTERVIEW: CC Smugglers

INTERVIEW:

 

 

 CC Smugglers

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AFTER the success of their single, Rhythm…

many eyes and ears have turned the way of CC Smugglers. That song was picked up by BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 6 Music – the band played live sessions of the station. The boys have enjoyed sold-out shows across the U.K. and Europe; great festival appearances – including Latitude – and supporting the likes of Old Crow Medicine Show and Bruce Springsteen.

The new single, Dirty Money, is another huge track and one I was eager to find more out about. Richie from the band talks about their music and details of each member; how they all came together and what their diary is looking like – and, whether being a sextet is a benefit or quite unwieldy.

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Hi. How are you? How has your week been?

Hello.

I’m fine, thank you very much.

This week, we’ve just returned from three dates in Switzerland playing some great festivals - including Montreux Jazz Festival!

For those new to your work, can you introduce yourself, please?

We are a group of lads who play original music with a gung-ho attitude for cross-breeding influences, old and new, from around the world. We are very proud of our well-established reputation for absolute scorching live shows.

We use Folk instruments like fiddles, banjos; harmonicas, acoustic guitars - alongside electric guitars keyboard and full drum kits.

Did you catch Glastonbury? What was your opinion? Any performances stand out to you?

I caught bits and pieces but I don’t have a lot of time for telly really. I spent most of that weekend demoing a track I was writing – but I was aware it was on.

I do know Jamie Cullum was playing. I would have loved to have seen that live. I also watched Jeremy Corbyn’s speech on social media: that was quite interesting, I must say.

Dirty Money is the new track. What inspired the track and what can you reveal about it?

Being a musician in the music industry is hard: in the same way being a human in the 21st century is hard.

There’s always something just out of reach that will make us happy when we finally get it - and when we get it, there’s always something else… just out of reach. Money’s a bit like that. Doesn’t matter how much I earn: I’m always skint.

It’s taken me many years to realise that happiness isn’t a result from getting something, or having money or buying something. That stuff is fun, but fun isn’t happiness.

So, like many of my songs, they’re just notes to myself to remind myself of feelings - some of them we end up sharing with everyone – I think this one's relevant to most people.

Is there going to be more material coming soon? What can we expect later in the year?

We are toiling over some secret plans – just be patient, you cheeky rogues.

I am interested in the name, 'CC Smugglers' – sorry if you’ve been asked before – but where does that band name come from?

Yes, that is something we’ve been asked a few times…

Let’s just say ‘CC’ refers to the 125 C.C. motorbikes we used to ride when we were troublesome kids - riding across the fields in our home county.

You can just use your imagination for the 'smugglers' bit.

How did you guys all form in the first place? Was there an instant spark the first time you got into the studio?

I was doing stuff on my own for a few years and went into a studio to make a demo. When I made that demo the producer laid some double bass and electric guitar.

It was then that I sent those demos to my two friends Ryan and Dan - who were traveling Australia. The pair of them flew home and we started a band! We never really looked back after that!

I am interested in the six-piece – I do not see too many bands with that many members. Do you think having that strength in numbers heightens your sound and makes the creative process easier?

It has its strengths and weaknesses but, as far as being on stage, we are a force to be reckoned with - and that is because we are a large, strong; well-rehearsed team unit.

Who are the real ‘characters’/trouble-makers in ranks? Any one member the rest have to keep a cheeky eye out for?

Well, that’s a bit personal, isn’t it!?

We all have our own unique little niches:

Sam, our fiddle player: he’s the pretty boy; insists on getting his hair cut twice a month; is a front-runner in fashion and loves a bit of self- grooming.

Dan is the ladies’ favourite: tall, dark and handsome; has done a bit of modelling in the past - but is the ultimate gentleman and a real kind caring chap.

Ryan. He’s the quiet, surly one: absolutely on-point all the time - but just watch out for the quiet ones. He’s always one step ahead: captain cool.

Tom is a total gent, very stylish - and one of the best musicians I’ve had the pleasure to work with.

Iain a true Scot: can drink like a fish, tumble like a boulder and graft hard.

I’m the loudest and gobbiest. I’m a bit scatty but can, and have, talked us out of a pickle or two (I’m also damn good at driving in deep mud and snow - and have almost dangerous amounts of confidence on and off the road.)

So, there…you asked one simple question and you got a character reference of everyone. I told you I was gobby.

What has it been like getting attention from stations like BBC Radio 2 and '6 Music? They are quite diverse so it must mean you are doing something right!

It’s amazing, really.

If I could tell that funny, little loner twelve-year-old sitting in the field playing his guitar terribly (me-twelve) - or the angsty, spotty Slipknot hoody-wearing fifteen-year-old playing the school guitars in the music corridor at lunch time (me-fifteen); that, one, day he’ll be legging it round the world playing gigs and getting played on national radio station…it would have done my self-esteem the world of good.

It’s funny how things work out: it would never have happened without a huge team effort. Not only from my best mates in the band, but our families and friends - and all of the people who work with us because they believe in it.

I know you have some tour dates coming up in October. Which venues are you most looking forward to playing and are there towns/cities on the list you have not played before?

Oh, there’s loads!

The Cambridge Junction one is a biggy!

Also, London at the Union Chapel is a big old show.

What is touring like for the band? Is that a side of things you enjoy or can it be quite demanding?

Oh, man!

That’s what I live for! It can be very demanding: long drives, short sleeps - especially when voices start getting tired - but I kind of see it; in a very pretentious and non-realistic way - like being a soldier.

We go out on tour with the squad and rough it; rely on each other; bond and get through it – it’s an absolute adventure where we get to see the world and we have moments of exhilarating adrenaline every night. That’s living!

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My friends have formed a band called Funeral Shakes.

I have heard their stuff and heard the plan. When it drops it is going to drop-hot. They are quite heavy but so, so clever and artistic.

Trust me: it’s going to hit the ground running.

It’s not out yet, but, boy…when it comes…

If you had to select the album that means the most to you; which would it be and why?

For me, Jamie Cullum’s Twentysomething

It has been the soundtrack to every single one of my (blossoming) relationships and crushing breakups.

It introduced me to Jazz and Swing - and there is not a song on there that doesn’t remind me of someone or something.

I will always love that album.

What advice would you give to any new artists starting out right now?

Be different, be brave and never ever think you’ve done enough.

There will always be someone out there better than you: all you can do is do your best. The competition is high so work your fingers to the bone and always go the extra mile. You never know what may come of something so never make decisions out of fear.

Don’t think of reasons why not: think of ways to make things happen.

Finally, and for being good sports, you can each name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Ok, thanks!

Here goes:

Richie: Leon Redbone – Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone

Dan: Aretha Franklin – Think

Ryan: Muddy Waters – I Want to Be Loved

Sam: John Mayer - Slow Dancing in a Burning Room (Live in L.A.)

Tom: Billy Joel - New York State of Mind

Iain: The Brandon Brown Collective (ft. KIKI KYTE) – Honey

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INTERVIEW: Sasha Brown

INTERVIEW:

 

 

Sasha Brown

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THERE are few as busy right now than Sasha Brown.

PHOTO CREDIT: @channelkish 

The singer-songwriter prepares to release her single, Parallel, on the 14th – she is busy D.J.ing at Hoxton Radio and seems to be constantly moving. She found some time to discuss her upcoming single and the story behind Parallel. I learn about her music past and how she got to this point; how influential her D.J. work is and the sort of music she is vibing to.

In addition, in a full-bodied interview, she talks about how Pete Tong discovered her music; whether she caught this year’s Glastonbury and what the approaching weeks have in store.

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Hi, Sasha. How are you? How has your week been?

Sam! I'm good, I'm good.

Busy getting ready to release my debut single! 

 For those new to your work, can you introduce yourself, please?

Hey (*wave*).

I'm Sasha Brown: singer/songwriter; saxophonist; radio D.J. and presenter. 

Did you catch Glastonbury? What was your opinion? Will you be heading to any festivals this summer?

Please, don't even go there: I'm doomed against Glasto!

I can never get tickets even though I was sitting on about five devices with my mates! I caught Ed Sheeran's performance on T.V.

I've kinda been in love with his music since seeing him at Benicassim music festival at eighteen.

Parallel is your upcoming debut single. What can you reveal about the inspiration behind that track?

It's a reflection of where we're at today. I co-wrote it with these guys Joe Kearns and Jason Elliot - who are awesome.

I came into the session with this word that had been playing on my mind for a while: parallel. 

Jason was saying how the world's kinda messed up and sometimes it's hard to feel a connection when everything feels so lost. For me, there's a frustration behind the song. It's about a relationship. Two people are moving together - in the same direction - at the same speed but, for some reason, they aren't coming together.  

From the outside, everything looks perfect but it's not - there's no connection.

How much of your personal experience and romantic endeavours go into the song?

Haha, ummmmmm.

Yeah, I mean songs I write have to mean something to me or what's the point?

What I write about doesn't necessarily relate to current relationships. I like to play on the past, present and to think about the future.

It's probably better no one knows who I'm writing about - that's a lil dangerous! 

Was it quite nerve-wracking putting the song together? How does it feel releasing a debut single to the world?!

No, it feels really right, actually.

Last year, I had a featured release off Jamie Jones’ label, Hot Creations - which got quite a lot of (BBC) Radio 1 play and support from Pete Tong. That was a dream.

It was a Techno, track, though, and I'm a Pop artist – so, for the past year, I put myself into the studio with different producers to really develop and discover my sound.

Parallel feels really good and I'm getting really positive feedback. I'm excited.

 PHOTO CREDIT: @charlicohe

The song’s video was shot in Shoreditch and is quite minimal and stripped-back. How much say did you get in the concept and what was it like working on the shoot? 

So, Charli Cohen (the fashion designer) and I have been following each other on Twitter for the past couple of years. I'm very into fashion and have done some modelling in the past. After her LFW 2017 showcase, I just messaged her saying I wanted to collaborate.

I came up with a concept for the video as I could literally see it in my head. I pitched it to her and her partner, Ben Thompson, who’s an amazing videographer and director. They were on it so we got Ben's team, PXL Post, together and shot the video one weekend! 

The shoot was really good fun. I love Charli's designs and the team were all vibing so it was great! 

Of course, you have been in music a little while and gained support from the likes of Pete Tong. It seems Parallel is a softer and more evocative song than, say, Talk On (you featured alongside Nathan Barato). What was the decision behind this stylistic change?

I was a featured artist on Nathan's track. I’m not a Techno. artist, but I do love Dance music - so it was a pleasure to do!

Funny story actually: Nathan and I met in Ibiza a few years ago. My best mate and I went up to him and his friends in the club Space - cos we thought it was hilarious that their whole crew were head-to-toes in black.

We all became friends and then Nathan and I stayed in touch - as he was a producer/D.J. and I was looking for people to work with!

I sent a couple of demos to Nathan in Toronto and then had this little idea. I still remember standing in my kitchen and singing it into my iPhone. You know how they say 'shot on an iPhone'?: well, Talk On was ‘recorded on an iPhone’! 

I sent it off to Nathan who was D.J.ing with Jamie Jones at the time, and next thing I knew, the track had been cut! It was a bit mad.

I've always been in the Pop world. I grew up on Pop and it's in my blood - so it wasn't a transition; more a case of just doing it!

PHOTO CREDIT: @nastassjathompson

Is there going to be an E.P. to follow and will you mix genres/sounds on it, perhaps?

Definitely! I've got loads of music coming; stay tuned!

Come to my gig at Secret Garden Party festival - Saturday 22nd July at twelve (midday) - and you can hear it all.

Can you tell me a bit about the musicians and bands you grew up listening to? Who are the big artists that compelled you to go into music?

I just love music.

Honestly, it's the one thing that can completely change my mood. Music has always been a massive part of my life.

I grew up on Pop. My dad bought me Abba's Gold album at eight and I loved it. I started playing the sax. but couldn't read music at the time - so my teacher had to write out all the letters so I could play the album! 

I grew up on everything, to be honest. All the great singer/songwriters like Carole King, The Supremes; Gabrielle - but I also went to dance classes every weekend so listened to a lot of Hip-Hop and RnB. I’m very into artists such as Tove Lo and Sia at the moment - but I listen to different playlists on Spotify every day, so there’s a lotttt that I like.

PHOTO CREDIT: @rhona_murphy

You are a D.J. on Hoxton Radio. How influential is that work to the music you make and what is it like working on the station?

I was Head of Music at Burst Radio (Bristol Uni.) in my last year there. I love now having my show on Hoxton Radio - Mondays 12-2 P.M. (tune in: cheeky plug) cos it means that there's constantly a reason to look for new music and share that with my listeners!

I listen to different Spotify playlists every day and get sent quite a lot of music by P.R. companies for my show - so, all the sounds I'm hearing, obviously, have an effect on me as an artist.

I play a lot of remixes on my show and Dance music because my show is on a Monday and people need a little help feeling good on a Monday. Monday’s are tough so I call my show the Feel Good Show!

I’m a little obsessed with ODESZA and Zhu - and that new Camelphat and Elderbrook tune, Cola, is just, well: it’s perfect.

I love interviewing other artists and seeing what they’re up to! I interviewed Rudimental last week who are just awesome. You can just tell how much they love music and how it brings people together.

What does the rest of the year hold in terms of gigs and appearances? Where might one come and see you play?

Secret Garden Party 12 P.M., Saturday 22nd July!

I’m so excited as I’m playing the same stage as some of my favourite acts at the moment - including Mabel, Zak Abel and Bonzai!

I’m also playing Metropolis Rising at Bicester Village on Friday 28th July.

More coming - and I’ll be posting gig dates on my socials.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Astrid S! I’m obsessed.

I saw her live at Scala last month. She’s amazing. Her single, Breathe, was co-written with some of the guys working with Tove Lo - so no wonder I like her!

Also, check out Julie Bergan: she dances as well so her stage presence is ridiculous.

ALMA, Zak Abel...ahhhhh; there are too many!

What advice would you give to any new artists starting out right now?

Work really hard.

When I interviewed Grace, from Clean Bandit, I remember asking this exact question. She said “Just work really hard”; and I was like, “yeah, and have talent”; and she was like, “No, just work really fricking hard”.

Obviously, talent has a lot to do with it but hard work will always override a talented person who’s a little lazy. You have to really want it badly in this industry.

I would also say to be present everywhere and get out and meet people – cos, in my experience, people have generally worked with me after they’ve met me. You can find networking events wherever you are. Just start to build your community.

Also, get on social media. It’s not all about the stats: figure out who you’re targeting and find a way to connect and build relationships. Music is an industry based on passion and love so people just want to work with cool people - and people they think they’re going to vibe with.

Finally, and for being a good sport, you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Ah, thanks.

So, there’s this wicked little tune called France by OPAL - which I include in some of my chilled D.J. sets.

Enjoy!

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INTERVIEW: Jess and the Bandits

INTERVIEW:

 

  

Jess and the Bandits

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FOLLOWING their acclaimed album, Here We Go Again, Jess and the Bandits…

proved they were a force to be reckoned with. The band found themselves much-demanded by BBC radio and T.V. – Jess became the first-ever Country star to be named an ambassador for a U.K. retail chain (Jess is from Texas). Jess, after a whirlwind romance, is engaged to Chris Peavey. I ask her and the band about that; what new song, Kings of Summer, is all about and how they have developed over the last year – and what sort of tour dates are afoot. In fact, their touring schedule is pretty full and impressive – make sure you catch them if you can!

I learn about the creative process and some of the albums/artists that make the guys hum; the reason behind re-releasing Here We Go Again; what Smoke and Mirrors, their latest album, contains and how the guys all got together in the beginning.

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Hi, guys. How are you? How have your weeks been?

So far, so good. Busy but great!

Kings of Summer is your new track. What can you tell us about it? How did the song come together?

Well, when creating a new album it’s important to not only write your own songs but to utilize some of the best writers in the world (in Nashville). We are very fortunate to work with the best who even pitch us songs they’ve written. Kings of Summer was one of those.

The minute we heard it we knew we had to make this the first new song people could hear from the new album. It’s fun, carefree and perfect for summer. In a world full of chaos; sometimes you need a song like this that (just) makes you smile!

How does your music general form? Do you write lyrics and music separately or at the same time?

It typically comes around the same time.

I write ideas and some basic lyrics so I know what I want to talk about - but it’s not until I sit in the writing-room with the other writers that it actually comes together.

You re-released of your album, Here We Go Again, as a Deluxe package. What was the decision behind releasing that back into the market?

We knew we had a while before we would be releasing album two - so this gave us an opportunity to give our fans some new music while continuing to promote the first album to new fans.

Smoke and Mirrors is your upcoming album. We will receive it in September. What kind of songs and themes will be on the record?

This album is full of strength.

From songs like the new single, I’m Not Going Home, to The Bullet and Sister - the reoccurring theme throughout this album is how strong we can be as individuals.

Whether that be in relationships, breakups; jobs or anything life tends to throw at us. There is a very soulful County-Gospel feel to this album - which we are so excited about.

Was it a lot easier to record than Here We Go Again or did it formulate quicker? What kind of changes and differences have you noticed between the two albums?

No.

I think every album has its own share of difficulties. They equally took just as long because I would never put out an album that wasn’t thoroughly thought through and formulated carefully.

The first album very much as a fun, Country-Rock feel. This new album, I feel, is deeper lyrically - still very fun but in a different way.

It also touches on Country-Rock but has much more of a Gospel influence this time.

Is there a particular song from the new album that sticks in the mind?

It’s hard to choose just one but Sister holds a special place in my heart.

Will you be touring to support the album? Where can we see you play?

Yes!

We are hitting the road in September and all of the dates are at our website: www.jessandthebandits.com

It is almost summer. Are you partaking in festivals? What are your plans for the summer months?

We sure are.

We are doing a few of the Country festivals and I have gone to a few myself just as a spectator - which is always nice!

This summer will consist of lots of trips between Houston and London - as well as promotion for the new album and upcoming tour.

It’s going to be busy!

Jess, you are recently engaged. Has that changed your creative dynamic and affected your music in any way?

I think, slightly.

Rather than talking about ‘What-if’ kind of love; I can actually speak from experience.

Sometimes, when writing, you have to use other people’s stories and it’s nice to use more of my own now in regards to the mushy-love-stuff.

How did you get musicians together for Smoke & Mirrors? Is it mostly American musicians or British ones in the fold?

We have a great mix on this album!

We recorded it in Nashville and London with Americans and Brits! We have our pick of some incredible talent on both sides of the pond!

Tell me how Jess and the Bandits all got together? Are you all friends from way back or did you meet one another gradually?

The band was formed after working together on a tour back in 2014.

Then, additional players have been added in - as we’ve all met around the music scene in the U.K. - especially the U.K. Country scene.

There is so much talent out there!

The guys filming for Oak Sessions back in May

The guys filming for Oak Sessions back in May

PHOTO CREDIT: Jess with Oak Sessions  

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Oh my, there are tonnes!

There is a Country band called OSMR; Ashley McBryde is fantastic and a great Texas Country band called The Drugstore Gypsies (are really cool).

Jo Smith is worth a listen.

If you each had to select the one album that means the most to you; which would they be and why?

Jess: Stand By Your Man by Tammy Wynette

I remember listening to my grandfather playing old Country music on the radio - and this is one of the ones I remember hearing.

Anytime I hear this song - or any of the others on this album - it takes me back.

Ricci: Thriller by Michael Jackson

It was the very first record I had on C.D. I could remember listing to this as a young boy, falling asleep to it.

The songs just really resonated with me and one thing I am partial to is the production. Quincy Jones is one of the finest producers of our generation.

Dave: Michael Jackson’s Bad

It’s been with me most of my life: the best songs, musicians and artist.

Louis: The Cream of Eric Clapton

I must have listened to this a million times as a kid growing up. My mum has this record and as I started to play the guitar - this was the benchmark.

There are some amazing songs on it as well.

Steve: Night Owl by Joey Rafferty

He is a much-misunderstood and sadly-underrated singer-songwriter - and I’d even go as far to say he is my favorite singer-songwriter - which is quite a controversial thing to say because I realize there are so many good ones.

My dad also raised us listening to Rafferty.

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What advice would you give to any new artists starting out right now?

Don’t give up… it’s such a tough industry but the only ones who actually make it are the ones that don’t stop!

Finally, and for being good sports, you can each name any song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

How about the ones mentioned above…

Michael Jackson - Thriller

<

Michael Jackson - Bad

Joey Rafferty - Night Owl

Tammy Wynette - Stand By Your Man

Derek and the Dominoes - Layla

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INTERVIEW: Sharlene-Monique

INTERVIEW:

 

  

Sharlene-Monique

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NOT content with being a successful musician and songwriter…

Sharlene-Monique runs an inspirational blog, Uniquely You. Drawing from her church/Gospel background; Sharlene-Monique brings messages of self-improvement and acceptance into her songs – You is the perfect example of her uplifting brand of songwriting. Produced by her husband Chris Morris; it is a captivating number and one that looks to the future. I ask her about upcoming songs and whether there is more music approaching; how important her childhood visits to church were – and what role her faith plays in her present endeavours.

I learn more about Sharelene-Monique’s tour dates and what her fondest musical memory is; what is was like working with her husband – with some advice for songwriting newcomers.

IMAGES: Relm Photography (except where noted)

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Hi, Sharlene-Monique. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey.

I’m having a great week so far.

For those new to your work, can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m a singer-songwriter, dancer; speaker and blogger.

I’m really passionate about inspiring people and encouraging them using the mediums said above.

You is your new single. Can you tell me about its origin and what inspired it?

You was written in 2014 around the time when I really began to discover my greatness. I had spent so many years prior to that feeling inadequate, from my body image to my talents. 

You is my gift to anyone who has ever felt like they weren’t good enough.

Talk to me about the video. How did the concept come together and can you tell me about the people who appear on it?

The video was produced by MsMono Productions (http://www.msmono.com) and they were excellent. We wanted to find a unique way to tell the story of the song visually - and Karla Williams (the scriptwriter) done that so well along with Rebecca Coley (the director).

Without her knowing, she showed many elements of my childhood in the video. The video features some amazing actors, in particular, Jessica Hagan and Aquila Grant - who play the same character (Jesse) at different ages.

What was it like working with producer (your husband) Chris Morris on the song?

It’s been amazing to do a project together. He is very particular and he pushes me to ensure I give my best.

He has a wide range of musical influences from Hans Zimmer to Robert Glasper - so the production to this song is quite a masterpiece in my opinion.

In addition to music, you are an inspiration speaker and blogger. How do those ‘roles’ feed into music? Is there a connection between them, would you say?

Yes.

My blog is called Be Uniquely You and it’s an inspirational and fashion blog. I very often do talks around the themes of my blog which are purpose, self-confidences and self-esteem. I love it when I get the opportunity to speak.

 IMAGE CREDIT: @rebekahsarahofficia

Be Uniquely You is your blog. It promotes self-confidence and self-love. What was the reason for setting it up?

I primarily set it up for women to be inspired to embrace all of who they are.

But, I have had men message me who enjoy the blog - so it’s for anyone who wants to see diversity celebrated.

I believe you spent a lot of your childhood/youth in church. How important is that background to your music? How much of the spiritual and religious do you apply to your music?

Yes I did and that’s a good question.

My church background plays a huge part in who I am today and the music that comes out of me. My passion to inspire and help people comes from my faith and belief in God - and the fact that, even though the people who listen to my music may not share the same faith as me - we all can connect on a human level.

We all have down days and up days. I want my music to be something all people can relate to and hopefully be impacted by in a positive way.

Is there an E.P. or album coming later this year?

Yes.

My E.P. will be out later this around October.

Can we see you touring at any point? Where can we come see you play?

My next tour date is in Glasgow on 23rd July at the Drygate.

I’ll also be at St John's Church, Hoxton on 18th August for my headline event.

What kind of music did you grow up listening to? Were you surrounded by a lot of genres and different sounds?

No.

To be honest, I listened to a lot of Gospel music growing up - and little R&B. My dad played the piano and was always learning songs for church services and concerts. I love Gospel music.

You have been involved in music for a while now. Is there a particular moment/memory that stands in the mind?

I can’t think of one particular moment.

But, as long as I can remember, I loved the stage: it honestly feels like home.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I love Cynthia Erivo, Tawiah; Shan Smile, Bianca Rose; Mariam and Yebba.

All except Yebba are U.K. artists - who have amazing talents.

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

I find this question hard and I honestly can’t pick three...sorry.

But, one would be The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill by Lauryn Hill - because it’s a vocal and lyrical work or art.

What advice would you give to any new artists starting out right now?

Figure what it is you want to say.

There are so many artists out there right now so make your music relevant and be honest. I think that’s what people connect with: your truth.

Finally, and for being a good sport, you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

I Was Created for This by Tweet

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