Probably a massive cliche, but I had dreams of becoming a performer and singing on records and making music. Every time there was a school concert, I'd imagine myself on stage singing along. Unfortunately, I didn't know (still don't know) how to play an instrument and I'm actually a very terrible singer. I think, despite the emotional difficulty, it is such a privilege to have such a career where you're allowed to express yourself and have a positive impact on the lives of others.
I've always been a bit of an 'old soul' when it came to music. I was listening to jazz, blues and soul records when I was younger - as well as keeping my head in pop culture (my childhood was the bubblegum pop era, and I'm not ashamed to admit that I still get nostalgic about 90s music). But as the years went on - I found there were a few musicians that had a lasting impression on me.
Because I used to frequently write creative stories; music is a massive centre and would actually inspire some stories.
Vocally, I really love Freddie Mercury (Queen), Ella Fitzgerald, Donny Hathaway, Marvin Gaye, Harriet Wheeler (The Sundays), Phyllis Hyman. If I were making music and would say who inspired me to sing, these would be the people I look to or I'm influenced heavily by.
In terms of albums;
Extension of a Man - Donny Hathaway, Blind - The Sundays, Off the Wall - Michael Jackson, Statues - Moloko.
I listen to a lot of everything, although I do have a bit of jazzy/bluesy sensibilities. Also, possibly a cringeworthy admission coming through - but I'm a total lover of Disco music and secretly wish it made it's way back into the zeitgeist. If the music makes you feel good haha. I gravitate towards jazz, blues, soul, disco and pop. Although there are songs from every genre that I fall quite in love with.
