Artist in the Hotseat - Phoebe Warden
What inspired you to first start playing music and how long have you been performing live?
A friend of mine passed away when we were 16 and that actually inspired me to write my first song. I then started writing quite a bit but couldn’t play an instrument to accompany myself, so I taught myself guitar and piano when I was 17 and started busking and playing open mic nights.
Which artists and bands are your major influences?
Joni Mitchell is obviously a big one. As a female singer/songwriter she's pretty much the Queen! But my favourite band of all time are Fleetwood Mac.
Could you briefly describe your music-making process? Do you follow a strict routine or is it more spontaneous? Do you write your lyrics before the music, or is it an integrated approach?
I definitely don’t follow any type of routine, if I haven't written or finished anything in a while I'll give myself that extra push but I never really force it. I usually come up with the music and melody first and then add lyrics. If a sentence or phrase pops into my head right away I'll usually try and form the song around that.
Are you working on anything new at the moment?
Yes definitely. I try to always have at least one song on the go!
What do you like to do outside of music that inspires your work or contributes to your musicality?
I like to read and spend time with friends and family, but going out and seeing good live music always inspires me most.
Has the time that you have spent in the United States influenced your musical style? If so, how?
I wouldn’t say it's influenced my style too much (although I did write a country song or two in Nashville) but its definitely given me more experience and inspiration to draw from.
Which are your favourite original songs to perform? Do you ever play any covers?
I always love playing 'Nothing’s Free' as its pretty simple but just good fun to perform and sing. I play a few covers, mostly older stuff like Fleetwood Mac, Neil Young and Van Morrison.
You have worked with an impressive range of artists, bands and producers. Who has been your favourite person to work with?
I don’t think I could say one specific person, but I do enjoy working with electronic producers. Its so fun to see how they can put a completely different spin on one of your songs.
What has been your biggest challenge as a solo artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
I think for me it was learning how to be as comfortable on your own on stage as you are with people accompanying you. Just before I went to America I had been playing with a band so then to go back to being solo out there was a bit nerve wracking. But it's all great experience and to be able to perform solo as well as in a band opens more doors for you as a performer.
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians going solo or starting their own bands?
If you're solo make sure it's definitely what you want to do and be prepared to work hard for it. If you're starting a band, make sure your bandmates are reliable and driven.
How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD?
I have a self titled EP available on Bandcamp and my more recent 'Small, Important Things' EP is available on iTunes and Spotify.
Is there anyone you'd like to acknowledge for offering financial or emotional support?
Definitely Ma and Pa! They're fab.