With a background love for grunge and post-punk artists throughout most of his life, Reading-based singer and songwriter Bradley Watmore is now looking to make his own mark on the music scene as he unveils his debut single 'Rock Bottom'.
Following in the footsteps of artists such as Billy Bragg and Frank Turner, the frontman uses his bright and euphoric storytelling direction to create a wonderfully warm and vibrant initial offering. With its stripped-back production of bluesy guitars and wistful drums, this new release is sure to make a big impression throughout the months ahead.
So with the artist growing more and more by the day, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has inspired him throughout the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I started on the electric guitar when I was younger, but switched to the acoustic because I just couldn't really write on the electric, I don't know why, I just got bored.
What has been the most prominent inspiration behind your music so far?
Definitely partying too much. It's easy to get distracted by the scene, and I got a lot of my writing inspiration from those times.
What kind of music did you love as a teenager?
Anything grungy or from the Britpop scene really! Nirvana, Blur, that sort of thing. When I was really young I used to love the pop punk scene as well.
Can you remember the first song that made you want to pursue a life in music?
I don't remember exactly what song it was, but it would have no doubt been either David Bowie, or Shawn Mullins, my mum used to play them all the time in the car.
When you wake up in the morning, what kind of music do you like to listen to?
It depends really, sometimes I don't put anything on, but normally it's the Indie List on Spotify, or finding ways to discover new music. I've been listening to a lot of Ten Tonnes and Sam fender recently. That big stadium sort of sound!
How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?
I guess my songs are all about everybody, but also about no one. I haven't really got a song that's about anyone in particular, but I get a lot of inspiration from the people around me.
What has been the most memorable moment in your career so far?
I was set to play Ronnie Scotts the night that Lockdown began, so I guess playing Ronnie Scotts on the night of the lockdown, then not playing Ronnie Scotts BECAUSE of lockdown! Also releasing 'Rock Bottom' is definitely up there, the support so far has been great!
Outside of music, what is your biggest passion?
I work out a lot, but also enjoy a beer or nine. But my main passion is my family.
If you weren’t a musician, what other path do you think you might have taken?
Prime minister or Binman.
And what advice would you give to other musicians looking to stay productive through the coronavirus lockdown?
Keep writing whilst you can, rarely do we get an opportunity to just write. But also don't feel pressure to write the next tears in heaven JUST because you're sat inside. But It's good to keep the creativity flowing.
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Bradley Watmore's debut single 'Rock Bottom' is available to stream and download now. Have a listen to it in the player below.