Interview: Stuart Newman

Stuart Newman is a singer, songwriter and recording artist based in Brighton, UK.

His latest work is the single “(We’re Living In) Another Dimension”, and can be downloaded here.

Tell us about yourself; how did you first get into writing and playing music?

Well, I started casually fooling around with technology and testing things out when all this tech started developing… and so I experimented with cutting up music and recording things. Overdubbing was something I always like and I used to try this with my own recordings and also use other bands’ music to see what could be discovered. This led me to being more curious and trying new things, until I started putting together some recordings. I kept working on it and moved things forward. It’s around this time that I also started learning guitar, so it all sort of came together.

How’s your songwriting process?

My process is varied at the moment. The songs can come from anywhere. A lyric, or set of words, or a chord structure… some are songs written to fulfil an idea, others just appear from playing and sitting with my guitar.

Do you play live? If so where’s your favourite place to play?

Currently, I’m a recording artist. I like reaching people through their headphones. I think it suits what I do and who I am.

Who has shown you the most support during your journey?

That’s a difficult question. People drift in and out of things. Generally you have to be the one that has all bases covered. It really is down to how hard you work, how smart you work and keeping going. I could name a few fans by name that have been here since the start. Hopefully they’ll stick around and I’ll continue to gather more.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing/recording music?

Well, I made the step up from producing my own home recordings on Single But Defective to going into the recording studio. So my sound is fuller and more textured. The audio quality has improved and I think I’m pleased with how things are going so far… I have the acoustic, more intimate, early recordings and the more layered new stuff. I like to think that gives people a nice balance and selection for now.

How would you describe your music and who/what are your inspirations?

It’s lyrically driven Mellow-Rock. I get inspiration from all over the place. Previous and current artists, ideas, how we perceive reality and how emotions affect our lives.

What can you tell about your latest release “(We’re Living In) Another Dimension”?

I’m always reluctant to offer too much insight into how a song was created or the meanings behind things too soon. People need to absorb the song first and make their own minds up. Maybe I’ll elaborate more in the future, but I think people can listen and decide for themselves. It’s a song I think fits nicely with my other work.

Which artist would you like to collaborate with and why?

Ha! I get asked this question a bit. I’m afraid I’m going to have to give you my standard answer – I’m working hard on creating my own world. We’ll see who wants to play with me in it. I don’t want to name names as it may make working with some people less likely. I have a few ideas, but I think that’s for the future.

What were your favourite discoveries and albums in 2011?

Well, I’ve not been discovering albums as much as artists recently. But I’m pleased to have found a few of Liam Dullaghan’s songs. I’m working on music a heck of a lot, so I tend to turn to my existing collection at the moment rather than intentionally seeking new artists for the sake of listening. But I’m constantly being made aware of new artists, so it’s nice when you find one you like. They’re few and far between for me at the moment if I’m honest.

What are your plans for the coming months?

Continue to try to work hard, smart and be creative. (Another answer I give often, but it’s true!)

Get free downloads and read more about Stuart Newman on stuartnewmanmusic.com.

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