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The Interview
What festival are you most looking forward to playing this summer – and why?
This summer’s all about creating something new. I’m spending most of my time writing and recording in the studio, and it’s been inspiring and eye-opening. That said, I’m really looking forward to road-testing some of the new songs at select shows. There’s nothing like seeing how a crowd responds in real-time.
Tell us about one/some of the most career defining shows you’ve played so far.
There are definitely those ‘pinch me’ moments, those dream venues you fantasise about as a kid. Playing the London Roundhouse and the Royal Albert Hall was surreal, especially as they’re on home turf. But some of the most defining shows for me have been in smaller, more intimate spaces where you can truly feel the energy from the crowd.
My seven-month residency at the 100 Club in London was a big one for me. That run really allowed me to grow – both with my band and the audience. Another standout was performing at the legendary Rockpalast in Bonn, Germany. Knowing so many of my heroes had graced that stage before me was humbling.
The most nerve-wracking, though? That would be playing unplugged – just voice and guitar – at the London Palladium. When it’s stripped back, there’s nowhere to hide. But those are the moments you grow the most as a performer.
As mad as life can be, especially when you’re following a creative path, I always remember that there is beauty in the chaos. Magical moments really do happen! I can remember recording my album One Shot at FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and watching legendary players who had performed on classic albums I love play on my songs. It was a surreal feeling!
How did you come into this career?
I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember, but I didn’t realise I could actually sing until I was around seven or eight. I used to sing a cappella in the garden, at school, or round my mates’ houses – it was my happy place. It still is.
There’s something transcendental about singing – it’s always felt like a connection to something bigger than myself. Performing live has always given me a unique sense of freedom. Recording is a different kind of magic, but I love both. The real challenge (and joy) is capturing that live fire in the studio.
Songwriting became a natural extension of that expression. It gave me a space to say things I couldn’t always articulate otherwise. That’s when I really started to find my sound, and I’ve been building it ever since.
Any pre-show rituals?
Absolutely! Who doesn’t? When your instrument is inside your body, you’ve got to take care of it. Everything impacts your voice: sleep, hydration, nerves, immunity… I always start with vocal steaming and scales to warm up. Ideally, I want to hit notes higher than I need in the set so that my voice is ready when it counts.
I follow a plant-based diet and swear by herbal elixirs to keep inflammation at bay and stay nourished. What you put in is what you get out; vocal health is non-negotiable for me. It’s about showing up for every audience with the same level of quality and energy.
What was the first show you remember going to?
That’s a tough one! The first small gig I remember was a jazz performance by a close friend in Greenwich. The first big show? Bonnie Raitt. She blew me away and still does!
What was the first show you remember playing?
Aside from school productions – which totally count, right? – my first proper full-band gig was at The High Rocks in Tunbridge Wells. What a night!
One thing you wish you knew before your first gig?
That it was all going to be OK, just be yourself.
Tell us about someone in your team you couldn’t do without.
Jamie Evans. He’s not only an incredible musician, songwriter, and producer, but he’s also my partner and my rock. I’m endlessly grateful for his support and creativity.
How do you find working with Midnight Mango?
The best results always come from relationships, and Midnight Mango really invests in their artists. I value the open communication and their genuine belief and vision for what I’m doing.
Tell us about something you’d like to promote.
Right now, I’m digging deep in the studio with the band, working on a new collection of songs. It’s been amazing to watch them come to life. We’ll soon be starting to test out some of the new material live while performing songs from One Shot. It feels like the beginning of a new chapter – and I can’t wait to share it.
