Hailing from the North East city of Middlesbrough, Finn Forster is a singer-songwriter with some real class. Influenced by and reminiscent of Pete Doherty and Paolo Nutini, Finn has a captivating and memorable vocal range over well-placed instrumentation. We had a chance to speak with Finn about his new single ‘Four Walls’, discovering new music and much more!
Why did you decide to enter the music industry?
I grew up surrounded by music. When I look back to all my significant childhood memories, it had something to do with music. Seven members of my immediate family, including my mother and grandfather, are musicians who are part of the family band called The Shea Family. Choosing to go down the route of music as my career was the easiest decision I ever made.
Can you tell us about ‘Four Walls’?
‘Four Walls’ is a song written both about and during the 2020 UK Covid-19 lockdown procedures. My surroundings and every day suddenly changed overnight. I was so inspired to write own all that I was experiencing and everything I could see around me. The outcome of that is ‘Four Walls’.
What was the recording and writing process like?
I really had to take charge within myself with recording as there were no shortcuts and no way of getting around it if I wanted to record ‘Four Walls’ within the timeframe I had in mind. I recorded the initial rhythm guitar, vocals and backing vocals on Garage Band at home while isolating. I then sent the files to my lead guitarist Billy Smith who worked his magic and mixed and mastered everything. He’s a talented guy I was buzzing to still be able to keep in good contact with to make this project.
Does the single have any significant meaning for you?
‘Four Walls’, I think, will definitely be a song of mine I remember for the rest of my life above all others. It’s been the most unique process in bringing it to life from start to finish, and I think it’s fair to say I’ll never experience anything like it again with regards to writing, recording and releasing a song. It’s pretty special.
What do you hope people take from your music?
I’m from a small North East town called Middlesbrough. if you want something in life when you’re from here you have to go out and get it. You have and always will have it inside you to achieve your craziest goals; it’s only you who’s going to get in the way. That’s always been my message and if I can inspire even one person to believe the same, then I’m happy.
What is more challenging for you – melody or lyrics?
Lyrics always come second, always. I’ll have a little melody, chorus or even just a verse in my head for a full day and when I sit to transform it into lyrics that is more challenging. I think it’s much easier to come up with a new song simply by humming it. To add lyrics to that and make them memorable ones that you are proud of, that’s hard.
How do you keep yourself motivated?
I have to remind myself of why I’m doing what I’m doing every day. I have days where I feel terrible and feel like throwing the towel in on my whole career and everything I’ve worked towards. As do we all. I just have to take time to chill a bit, watch a few live performances from artists who inspire me or go for a big walk. After all of this, I get to the end and wonder why I was being so stupid thinking negatively.
How would you describe your sound?
Definitely a new imagery of indie-pop with a big folk influence. A soft blend of Paolo Nutini and Caleb Followill.
What do you think is the best way to discover new music?
We live in a digital era where a streaming app will quite literally calculate what new artists you will like based on what you listen to most. Quite scary! Streaming apps always work well, however, I think nothing beats getting a couple of mates together or even heading out on your own to see a live gig. I don’t think anything will ever compare to live music.
What does the future hold for you?
Lots of music, loads of content, an unbreakable connection with fans and more live shows that I ever thought possible.
Do you have a message for our readers?
Thanks for taking the time to read my interview. I hope it gave you a little insight into who I am and my music. As an unsigned artist, the best possible way you could help me grow is by following me on Spotify and checking out my tunes, so I hope you can do that. Much love to you and hopefully catch you again sometime!
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