- Thu, 2008-09-25 09:18
Sam Beeton is a singer-songwriter from Nottingham and his collection of catchy pop tunes are certain to put a smile on anyones face. He is a multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, piano and the drums, as well as writing all his own lyrics. Nominated for Best Pop artist at this years BT Digital Music Awards, I Like Music caught up with Sam to chat about his debut album No Definite Answer, writing songs and his nomination.
"I Like Music because… it's beautifully disarming.” Sam Beeton
ILM: Your new album No Definite Answer is soon to be released. Can you give us your own personal description of the vibe of the album?
Sam: The Album is one that you can put on from start to finish, It's chilled, but has a few upbeat rock tunes on it, also it's folk twinged in parts. No Definite Answer has thirteen tracks.
ILM: You have a number of live dates coming up. What can we expect if we come to see you live?
Sam: Yes, well you can expect to hear songs from No Definite Answer, played with vigour as I have my band with me. I also play some songs acoustically, from the EP's I've released. I’m also touring with Scouting For Girls – it's going to be a lot of fun.
ILM: Can you describe the Sam Beeton process of writing and recording such good music?
Sam: Well everyday I have idea's for new songs, as it's something that I'm always thinking about. So I get the rough idea recorded, and then leave it for a while, and go back and listen a few days later to see if it's keeper! I then go ahead and record the track if it is. Most of the time the melody and maybe a turn of phrase for a lyric come first.
ILM: What are some of your key sources of inspiration?
Sam: Instruments, or just certain sounds that switch on a light in my brain! I am inspired by overheard conversations, news stories and films. I write songs about anything and everything – girls, boys, relationships...anything that comes to mind!
ILM: Loads of people are using the Internet these days and getting their music out there before even getting a record deal. How has the Internet affected you?
Sam: Positively, although I didn't utilise it to get a deal, I utilised it after I was signed to advertise my gigs and keep fans updated with blogs and video blogs etc and it's great that I’ve been recognised by the BT Digital Music Awards for such use! I have a My Space, Facebook and these both help me to keep in touch with fans and my YouTube is also an amazing way of showcasing my videos and video diaries.
ILM: You are still fairly early in your career but you must have learnt a lot so far. Have you got any advice for others looking to come into music industry?
Sam: Don't be presumptuous, and set out what you want from your songs and career before someone else tells you what they want. Also take things with a pinch of salt as it's easy to get carried away. Most of all, do what you want to do and have fun, don't get all serious just because everyone around you is.
ILM: What are the future plans for Sam Beeton?
Sam: Lots more songs. Another bigger and better record. And another one after that! Festivals and awards too!
ILM: You have been nominated for a BT Digital Music Award, how does that feel?
Sam: It feels tremendous, most of all because it will get my name out there to people who may not have been aware of me before, and who knows if I gets some votes maybe I can bust a win! Fans can vote for me at www.btdma.com
ILM: Can you describe your favourite place on Earth?
Sam: My perfect time would be at sunrise, every shadow is long. I'm at my house, the TV is on teletext with the jazz music that plays on it. I’m sat on the carpet, thinking about nothing.
ILM: What is your earliest musical memory?
Sam: The western acoustic guitar that was always propped up in my old house, to me it seemed like a skyscraper with strings.
ILM: What was the last thing that really made you laugh?
Sam: The news that I had been nominated for Best Pop Artist at the BT Digital Music Awards – I can’t believe it I’m so pleased!
ILM: What’s in your CD player right now?
Sam: Liam Finn's new album I'll Be Lightning.
