This interview explores the music and message of 50mething, an independent artist who transforms powerful social and political events into songs, discussing inspiration, creative process, influences, and storytelling.
1. Your new release was inspired by the overturning of Roe v. Wade, a deeply emotional and political event. What made you decide to respond to this moment through music, and what message did you hope listeners would take from the song?
I have covered social and political events in my music extensively. It seemed like the right thing to do from the very moment that first line came into my head. I suppose in writing the song, I was trying to show support and understanding to a demographic which has been constantly mistreated throughout history. The message would be why and how can this still be happening? It was released alongside SILENCE, a track dedicated to Sarah Everard who was murdered in the UK. Also, JUST BECAUSE, addressing the lack of education for women and girls in some parts of the world.
2. The opening line, “when I bleed, I know I’m safe,” is striking and powerful. Can you tell us about the writing process behind the lyrics and how you approached telling this story?
From a male perspective it is difficult to mentally envisage all of the aspects of female sexual health. All the processes that occur or can happen. The first verse was written to encapsulate the relief of finding out there was no pregnancy. Whether the deed was or wasn’t consensual which is often the case. Following that, the possible failure of after the event medication and resounding advise from mother. The build up to the chorus uses the title of the track. An image of stone age man dragging a woman by the hair and then brought up to date with the emancipation era. Later in the song I touch on the feeling of loss and helplessness as clinics are closed down. As there is no where to go. Except backstreets.
3. You work as an independent artist and collaborate with professionals like Sefi Carmel and Daniela Rivera for mixing and mastering. How did these collaborations come about, and how did they help shape the final sound of the release?
So starting out, I learnt from scratch, guitar work, keyboards, vocals, lyrics etc. To expect to add mixing and mastering at a proficient level was a tall order. After searching online I stumbled across the SOUNDBETTER platform which offers the services of professionals covering different aspects of music. At that stage the mix would have definitely needed a tidy up so the professional input has been invaluable. Now my mixes are a lot closer to the finished product.
4. You mentioned having a wide range of musical influences that blend into your own sound. Which artists or genres have most shaped your approach to songwriting and production?
Prince and Stevie Wonder would be my standout influences. But classical, gypsy jazz, big band, swing to name but a few are in there too. The lyrics are very important. They have to make sense and have context.
5. Much of your music is recorded in your home studio with a DIY setup. What do you enjoy about the independence of recording at home, and how does that environment affect your creativity?
All my music is recorded in a home set up. It’s good to have on tap and not have to go somewhere else. Sometimes I can leave recording for weeks and tracks often get left unfinished for some time to percolate. Waiting for that something! I don’t find sitting over the same song until its finished helps. Leave it and come back later.
6. Your music often focuses on storytelling and keeping important social issues in the public conversation. Looking back on your life experiences and artistic journey so far, what keeps you motivated to continue creating and speaking out through music?
Current events are always around us. Even more so now. When something happens and it strikes a chord, I will almost certainly start a project. The devastation in Gaza, my fathers’ dementia diagnosis, death and loss. All things that could or will affect us at any time. When a news worthy situation emerges, people protest and riot and it can get out of hand. With music, it can soften the blow but still have weight. A track releasing soon about the death of George Floyd has a very light touch with almost a sense of resignation.
If we could only learn to take a breath. Think before we react. Not shoot first and ask questions later. We would probably be nicer people.
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