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UK-based singer-songwriter S J Denney has just released his latest single ‘The Sticking Point’, and S J joined us to talk about the single, as well as filling us in on his musical background.
Have you always performed as a solo artist?
I used to play in various bands and duos. Several years ago I decided that I wanted to go down the solo route, as I thought it would give me a bit more of a creative licence.
How did you feel performing your first gig? And how was it?!
I’m pretty calm as a performer. I think my voice sounds better live and I’ve always loved being on stage. It’s the best way to gauge your songs and connect with your audience. I’d like to think that my first gig was no exception. I remember it went pretty well and the crowd were kind. That’s probably why I kept coming back for more.
What should people expect when they check you out? How would you describe yourself?
I think they’re likely to hear elements of The Beatles, Neil Young, Nick Drake, and Paul Weller in my music, amongst many others. My music is full of melody and harmony, which are the most important things for me. I’d imagine that people will pick up on the fact that my music is recorded organically, without modern-day trickery. For me, it’s always about the feel, rather than perfection. Any listeners are likely to be kept on my toes, as my song structures are quite unconventional, and I include a vast array of instruments in my recordings. If I had to label all of the above, I’d call it ‘Folk Plus’, which I guess is Indie Folk with a heap of other genres baked in.
The new music scene is bursting at the seams with fresh talent, in what ways do you feel that a band has to stand out from the others trying to build a name?
For me, that’s one of the biggest challenges that the internet has thrown at us. I’m not sure I’m the best qualified to answer this, as I’m yet to break through really. I think social media is probably the key, to be honest, ensuring people actually give you the time to check out your music. There’s so much out there that it’s really difficult to convince people that you’re worth their time. I think that constantly writing new material is really important too. You have to keep people’s attention and make them feel close to your creative process. Interviews like this are crucial too (so thank you). It’s really important to let people see the real you.
What are you working on at the minute that people can check out?
I recently finished a batch of material, which will be released throughout 2021. My 2022 batch is almost complete too. I’ve just released a new single called ‘The Sticking Point’, which I’m incredibly proud of.
What band out there at the minute do you feel that you would be best suited to open for?
The two that spring to mind are Fleet Foxes and Paul Weller.
Who do you feel is the next band to break out?
I’ve heard lots of good things about The Clockworks.
What are your first musical memories? And what was the light bulb moment that made you go “I want to do that”?
I remember stumbling across (quite literally) ‘The White Album’ by The Beatles and Neil Young’s ‘Harvest’. From then I was hooked. There’s never been any other career for me. It’s all about the music.
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
It’s hard to remember the world before COVID-19. I’m pretty sure it was The Bluetones at Shepherd’s Bush Empire.
The album that you have in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
‘Cross’ by Justice. I love most genres of music, including Electro house. I saw these guys at the Rock am Ring festival in Germany. They blew my socks off!
Although 2020 was a year to forget for many reasons, there was some incredible music released; what would be your album of 2020?
‘Shore’ by Fleet Foxes.
How active are you on social media and where can people connect with you?
I’m on most of the usual suspects. I post daily on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The best place to reach me is https://sjsongs.co.uk/. From there you can navigate to all of my social media profiles.
