While a native of North England, Drew Davies is an adopted Londoner. By no means a stranger to the world of music, Drew has performed in venues across the UK and Europe with other artists for quite some time. Drawing influences from diverse acts like Roy Orbison, Queen, Bowie and John Carpenter, Drew has created a very unique sound. We spoke with the man himself about his single ‘X and Y’, staying motivated and much more!
Why did you decide to enter the music industry?
I wanted to live like a pirate as I remember at a young age. To travel and do something I loved in the form of making music.
Can you tell us about your single ‘X and Y’?
I wrote ‘X and Y’ on Women’s Day quite a while ago. I was sat at my keyboard looking out of the window when it came to me. The song has actually taken many forms and styles, but I ended up going for the Wild West classic version you can hear on my record.
What was the recording and writing process like?
I recorded all the synthesisers myself at home with a pre-production mix. From there, I took it to the studio where the guys all put their flavour onto the song. as above, I wrote it at home; a funny one on this song was that I tracked the vocal in one take. It was a red hot day and there had been some kind of upset. I came in and we recorded by “scratch” vocal track and I realised that was it. No edits. Nothing.
Does the single have any significant meaning for you?
Yes, of course. It’s about equality for all. I wrote it at a time when I saw a lot of people signalling about equal rights, but then not following through in their actions. So it was a bit of a nod to that.
What do you hope people take from your music?
I think this debut album is full of sensitivities and warmth if I’m honest. I hope that people feel that warmth. I don’t think there are a lot of people out there making music like this using classic and timeless production styles and presenting rock and roll in this way. I hope people take the messages and that warm sentiment with them; it’s a very personal record.
What is more challenging for you – melody or lyrics?
I think the lyrics. Often I get melodies immediately and often lyrics, but I find it helps to really focus in lyrically before going to the studio to do a final take.
How do you keep yourself motivated?
It’s strange; to me creating is the vocation I love and I get a buzz out of creating as much as I can leaving it out there for people to enjoy. It’s hard in today’s industry as it’s so digitally focused and you have to cut through a lot of chaff that’s out there. I feel lucky to be able to do this. I made this record totally independently so I’m confident I can build on this with the right people behind me.
How would you describe your sound?
It’s changing all the time. This record was classic with a lot of great guitar work from Mark Anderson. It also featured a lot of vintage synths. I’d call this record romance-tinged rock and roll. I can definitely say what I’m writing now has a harder edge to it and is probably more its own thing – 70’s rock and roll mixed up with dance and hard rock beats. You’ll have to wait for those songs.
What do you think is the best way to discover new music?
I have my objections to the internet’s cheapening of art, but after going with it the last year I’ve discovered tons of artists I never knew. Sometimes it’s sad that such great music goes unheard or underexposed.
What does the future hold for Drew Davies?
I am writing my second album as we speak. I’m also writing for a few bands which might bring up some interesting songs and collaborations in the next six months or so. Watch this space!
Do you have a message for our readers?
Stay safe and always follow your dreams.
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