London-born singer-songwriter Col Gerrard has loved music from an early age, and that passion shines throughout his self-titled debut album. Drawing on a range of influences, the record takes listeners on an emotional journey, with songs that explore themes of connection, longing, and personal reflection. Here, he speaks to XS Noize about his earliest musical memories, the making of the album, touring with Boyzlife, and what comes next.
Let’s start at the beginning. At what age did you first become interested in music?
Around the age of five. We had an old, beat-up upright piano at home, and instead of climbing all over it, I started trying to play it.
Was there a particular artist, band, or album that made you think, “That’s what I want to do with my life”?
Anything Motown, really. I’ve always loved the label’s house band, The Funk Brothers.
Who would you say has been your biggest artistic influence?
Marvin Gaye.
Tell me a little about your new self-titled album. What was the creative process behind it?
I’d been working in film for a while and decided to return to music. I had a lot of songs sitting there, so I approached producer Chris Potter and asked if he’d be interested in working with me. Luckily for me, he was.
Is there one song on the album that you’re especially proud of?
“The Way I Feel.” It really encapsulated how I felt about the world at the time.
What do you hope listeners take away from the album? Is there a particular message running through it?
That nothing lasts forever, so make the most of who you are and what you have while you can.
There’s been a lot of debate around social media, especially when it comes to younger users. How do you view platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and the rest, both personally and professionally? Do you think you’d have built the audience you have without them?
Unfortunately, style seems to win out over content these days, so whether you like it or not, social media has become part of what you do and part of what you’re saying.
You’ve just come off tour with Boyzlife. What was that experience like? Any standout shows or favourite memories?
The lads in Boyzlife were great to work with — real pros. For me, the best night was definitely Edinburgh. My Celtic side loved that one.
Which artist, living or dead, would you most like to share a stage with, and why?
It would have to be David Bowie — just an incredible artist. And if I could squeeze in one more, it would definitely be Prince.
If you could play any venue in the world, which would you choose?
The Hollywood Bowl.
Do you have any tour plans of your own in the works? Might we see you at festivals this summer?
We’re currently in talks with a few acts about joining tours for the rest of the year.
With the album now out in the world, what comes next for you? What do the rest of the year and beyond look like?
We’ve already laid down the basics for another 15 tracks, so I’m excited about getting back into the studio with Chris Potter around June 1. After that, I definitely want to hit the road.
Be the first to comment