Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how your childhood impacted your musical direction?
A: I suppose 70’s, guitar-based bands. The first vinyl record I bought was ‘ Status Quo ‘. I moved to jazz, but have gone back to songs as opposed to people improvising. I like that too, but like a story.
Q: How are you planning on growing your fan base and sharing your music with the world? What message do you have for anyone who is about to discover “The Bloke down the road”?
A: As regards my fan base, I’m just glad someone’s listening. I’m 58 and if I can just keep writing. I send music to libraries and would like to write for different personalities in different genres. I can’t travel far and have really only played live as a bassist – I don’t seek the limelight.
Q: Can you tell us about the story or message behind the song, “Simple song.”?
A: The song’s about feeling free, being at peace with yourself and enjoying the natural world around you. Corny, I know, but that’s how I feel.
Q: How would you describe your sound in one word for potential listeners?
A: In one word, free. Also, the name of my ( probably ) favourite 70’s band.
Q: Did you face any challenges while writing or recording “Simple song”?
A: No. It’s just me, my little pencil mic and a few guitars. I write the melodies down in the night. Then freestyle the words and see where I end up. A sort of nice trip out, but not knowing where you’re headed.
Q: What is the message of your music? And what are your goals as an artist?
A: My message? Again, corny but look after the good people and things in your life , also the world around you and enjoy simple things.
Q: Who is your dream artist to collaborate with? (dead or alive)
A: Play bass for Django Reinhardt, ( I’d quite happily make the tea/sandwiches or write a song that Sarah Vaughan enjoyed singing.
Q: What is your advice for people interested in pursuing music as a career or for those trying to enter the industry?
A: I don’t feel qualified to give advice, but just have fun doing what you do, leave the nasty folk alone and look after the good guys. Tread extremely carefully if someone promises to make you rich ( probably goes without saying ).
Q: If you could go back in time and give a younger you some words of wisdom, what would they be?
A: Advice to younger me: just be you. You don’t have to be flash, rich, sleep with a load of people, take booze or drugs. Just respect people and be who you are.
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