Best known as the singing NHS doctor, who has been delighting many over the last few years with his sweeping croons, Sukh now returns with his latest evocative and soaring effort 'Airborne'.
Inspired by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, 'Airborne' sends all that listens an urgent reminder of just how devastating and contagious the virus can be. With a sound that prompts reminders of Depeche Mode and Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, his latest release is bold and vibrant stunner, filled with screaming guitars and atmospheric strings.
So with his new single now available everywhere, we sat down with his to find out more about his background and what has inspired him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The piano. I didn’t enjoy reading music that much but once I tried playing without something in front of me to read then my enjoyment of it rocketed. Don’t get me wrong I love listening to other people play the piano and play those classic and complex pieces but songwriting and using the piano to that end is what I fell in love with.
What has been the most prominent inspiration behind your music so far?
My music has always had deep roots in human psychology. I read a lot and I see a lot of different people as part of my day job as a doctor. Analysing this objectively but also through an artistic narrative lens is where a lot of my music comes from. That and my own personal experiences.
What kind of music did you love as a teenager?
When I was a teenager I remember liking all sorts. From Damien Rice to Elliott Smith to even Coldplay's early stuff and film music. I love film music. Hans Zimmer, Thomas Newman to name a few.
Can you remember the first song that made you want to pursue a life in music?
I remember going down to the local music venue and I saw a few bands who made me want to pursue this thing called music. I can’t remember the exact song. Bands like Mach Schau and Pure Reason Revolution I remember those gigs made me want to make something. I would sit at the piano after and keep trying to write.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’m currently listening to Taylor Swift's new record, Miranda Lambert and Dylan's new one. In another life I think I’d probably be a country artist.
How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?
Directly about someone maybe one or two. I generally put people I know in songs for part of it but the entirety of it is rarely completely about someone.
What has been the most unusual moment in your career so far?
There was one time I was invited to play in what I thought was a music festival. It turned out it was in a private girls secondary school. The geography teacher had heard me on the radio and invited us to play. It was unexpected! But it was a good gig.
Outside of music, what is your biggest passion?
Film and photography maybe.
If you weren’t a musician, what other path do you think you might have taken?
If I didn’t do the things I do now maybe a film director. I’m starting to get into it directing my own music videos.
And what advice would you give to other musicians looking to start a career in music?
You got to have the passion. It’s a ruthless world. Lose the ego. Prepare for rejection. Keep going.
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Sukh's new single 'Airborne' is available to stream and download now. Have a listen to it in the player below.