What instruments do you play? / How are you involved in music?
I am learning sax at the moment but I also play piano. I am a very basic player but it gets me by for writing songs. I am a professional singer and have been for around 20 years, working as a soloist and also within bands/duos and trios travelling all around the UK performing at various venues as well as a lot of private functions such as weddings and parties. I work with various musicians, currently working with a couple of bands. I will be recording some original material this year with some new musicians I Have recently met I am now part of two amateur production companies who put on shows every year as well as various concerts celebrating the West End. We have just finished our run of Rock of Ages in a local Theatre.
What styles/genres of music do you play / do you listen to?
Mainly covers due to the nature of my work. I enjoy a wide variety of music genres. I Am a big fan of country music as well as Blues/soulful such as Joe Bonamassa and Joss Stone. My favourite bands are mainly country – Zac Brown Band, Brothers Osbourne, Blackberry Smoke. I also love listening to Pink and Teddy Swims, Chris Stapleton.
Who inspired you to get into music? / Who continues to inspire you?
From a young age I was part of a Dance School in Canvey called Garland Theatre School. I learnt a lot there and owe a lot to my dance Teacher Lorraine. We used to get involved in various shows and I was fortunate to perform at many West End Theatres when I was younger. I chose the Singing path and became a professional singer. I am inspired by the artists I listen to, the artists who bare their soul through their music such as Pink, she has no filter which I love about her. She does not conform to how we as women are expected to dress or act as performers/singers. There is very much this stigma about what a woman should look like and how she should dress and perform, and I like that Pink does not follow that and never has. It sets a great example for younger kids to not be afraid to be who you are and to be proud of that, I love that and also her relentless hard work ethic.
How often do you get to perform?
I perform most weekends, either on my own or fronting the band. I would say on average 2/3 times a month.
Do you have any plans for music in the future?
I will continue to work with various musicians, gigging around the UK. I also want to get back into writing my own music which is what I will be doing over the next few years.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Do not be afraid to express yourself and to celebrate who you are as an artist. Do not try to conform to what Society believe you should sound and look like. It is a cut throat industry and you will probably hear the word “no” a million times before you hear yes, but never give up! Remain passionate and most of all, just enjoy it.
Check out some of Amanda's work below.