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Introducing Wakefield-based musician/songwriter Guy North…
How long have you been performing music?
I’ve been playing as a solo artist for a while now but I’ve been in various bands in the past.
What should people expect when they check your music out?
Most of my songs have an American influence but with a British edge. I listen to a lot of Americana, blues, rock, etc. but when I write a song I can often feel the influence of British artists creeping in. I used to listen to the Beatles a lot in my teenage years and they’ve left this indelible influence. Maybe it’s not that obvious to listeners but I can hear it myself.
How did you feel performing your first gig, and how was it?!
I can’t remember the first solo gig I did but I’m sure I was nervous. That’s the thing that’s great about being in a band – you can all carry each other. When I’m on my own I know that a mistake is going to be very difficult to cover up.
The new music scene is bursting at the seams at the minute with fresh talent, in what ways do you feel that a band has to stand out to build a name for themselves?
Just write music that you enjoy writing and playing and keep doing it. I think the more songs you write, the better you will get at it. If you’ve got good songs you’ll eventually build a fan base. I think the worst thing a band can do is compromise on their style or ethics to stand out. If you do that and become successful then you are stuck pedaling something you weren’t happy with in the first place.
What are you working on at the minute that people can check out?
I’m working on a second album at the moment and I occasionally post the odd riff on my Facebook or Instagram page.
In terms of a similar audience, which band out there at the minute do you feel you would be best suited to open for?
That’s a tough one. I’d love to open for Hiss Golden Messenger if I could.
Excluding yourself, which new band would you like to see break out and become a success?
Probably the Wakefield bands Knuckle or Cry Baby Cry. Both amazing.
What are your own first musical memories? And what was the lightbulb moment that made you go “I want to do that”?
I used to bang on a barrel that had my toys in when I was a kid. I remember making songs about teachers that annoyed me. Music has always been therapy for me.
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
The last gig I went to was to see Daniel Norgren at the Brudenell in Leeds. Me and my wife got to the door and realised we’d both bought tickets for each other!
What current social issue are you particularly passionate about?
There’s a lot of poverty in the UK. We really need to see a change of government to affect that in any measurable way though.
The album that you have in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
“Dark Dancer” by Les Rythmes Digitales
What new music have you been enjoying so far this year?
Yellow Peril by Nat Myers. Raw and authentic. I’ve also got into Kurt Vile this year but it’s mainly his old stuff that I’m listening to.
What does 2024 hold for you?
I’ll be getting some gigs together for 2024 and finishing off the second album I think.
How active are you on social media and where can people connect with you?
Activish – you can check me out on Instagram and Facebook:
https://www.instagram.com/guynorthmusic/
https://www.facebook.com/guynorthmusic/
