When did you first realise that COVID-19 was going to have an effect on you?
I was doing an interview in York at the BBC on the day the first cases were reported in the UK and we said to each other in the studio as the story broke, this is going to have a massive impact. We obviously didn’t realise the severity and what was to come but we knew this was a great concern having seen the impact in other countries.
Initially, what was that whole situation like, and how did you overcome/react to it?I guess like everyone lockdowns and the human cost had a massive impact on our lives. My gigs were cancelled and it took a few weeks to think through what to do for the best. Being able to practice and write songs was really cathartic. I also kept in touch with other muso friends and I’ve a very supportive partner.
How has your creative process changed over the last year?
In terms of writing not a lot. I write at home. Recording had a big impact and that is a major part of the creative process for me as I work with people in the studio. Luckily in the easing off in the summer for a few weeks last year I was able to get in the studio and record 3 songs with my great friends at The Animal Farm.
What’s been the hardest part about writing/doing music this way?I like to test out new songs with a live audience and that has been missing this last year and that’s been quite frustrating. Writing has been much the same but I know the situation has fed into my writing, especially my single ‘We Are One’ which was out in November. It’s about some to the challenges we’ve faced with those we love.
What bands/artists have you been listening to recently?
I like listening to Madeon, an electro-pop artist and also been listening to Counting Crows and some audio books too for a change.
So, what do you think you’ve learnt the most from being a musician through COVID-19?I knew this but what’s been reinforced is how much I rely on playing live and what that brings to me personally on so many levels. Also I’ve seen how people have missed the arts and what this can mean to their health and wellbeing.
What kind of effect do you think that it’s had on the music industry all together, and how excited are you to see it return to normal?
It’s had a devastating impact. Some artists have left the profession, some have had their worlds turned upside down, some grassroot venues and some big ones have had to close. There’s been a major mental health impact on so many many people.
I am really excited to see a return to normal but I’m not sure what that will be!! I’ve been lucky to do a few solo gigs and they feel very different but at least I’m lucky to be out there.
What tips/advice would you like to give to other artists who are also going through this?
Try and keep positive, keep playing and try and keep connected to friends and fans in whatever works best for you. If you are struggling talk to someone, there are lots of support mechanisms out their who can help. Stay safe and take care.