Singer-songwriter Conrad Ashton has today announced he is set to release his brand new single Anna Jean, this August 3rd. This will be his first release since 2015, and a taster of more new material set to come.
An ever-evolving, no-frills singer-songwriter, Conrad Ashton creates modern rock music that is firmly rooted in the classic pop sound. Ashton keeps a steady focus on eloquent lyrics that remain humble and relatable, that also go hand in hand with his vibrant melodies and layers of sound; these not only highlight his current rock influences, but also give a respectful nod to the decades and artists of the past.
Ashton’s early writing drew much influence from his inner anxiety and depression. Not only did his music work as a self-help mechanism, he also witnessed many peers connecting with the music and messages he was conveying on a personal level. This dual impact made him delve deeper into song writing as a solo artist and resulted in Ashton himself growing and branching out as an artist. Fast forward to present day, this British working-class singer songwriter continues to grow as a writer, performer and as a person. We caught up with Conrad as he talked about his upcoming release and more!
So how pumped are you for the release of Anna-Jean?
Couldn’t be more happier, it’s a strong track and it’s the best I’ve got so if people think it’s rubbish it’s the best rubbish I can do!
Can you tell us something about the single that no one else knows?
It’s taken a long time to get right and has had numerous reincarnations in the studio but no producer or musicians have gotten it right until now it’s exactly where I want it finally and I am ready for it to be shared with the world.
What was your favourite moment making this single?
The studio we used (Blast in Newcastle) state of the art and I met an amazing producer (Stuart Campbell) who can see myself working with for many years to come he’s a wonderful guy and knew how to get the best out of me and the musicians who played on the track.
Will you be releasing EP/Album this year at all?
Hopefully, depending on how well the single is received. There are a full two albums written to the standard of Anna Jean and I’m in a real burst of creativity currently. It’s more a case of money to record it and then pr and tour costs to support it, I’m not a man of a lot of money currently to be brutally honest to back an album the way I would want to but I’ll do what I can. And if a label comes along/invested consider it done.
If you could work with any band or artist on a new song, who would it be and why?
Jimmy Nail. I would love to see him come out of retirement the man was a phenomenal singer in his day and wrote some cracking tracks. But in terms of still active Roger Daltrey he still has a brilliant voice and his new album is marvellous.
What’s it like being recognised by the likes of BBC Radio?
A dream come true you grow up listening to the BBC and you never expect them to say your name let alone play your music it’s humbling yet so surreal and a true honour when a household name recognises what you’re trying to do.
What’s the alternative music scene like in Durham at the moment?
Not the best I miss living in Leeds for the music scene during my time at university, but I’ve got irons in the fire in terms of gigs so we’ll see what happens.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
The Who at the Metro Radio arena in Newcastle with my Dad, it doesn’t get any better than that for a first gig I don’t think!