Coco Sumner
Just 12 months ago I Blame Coco released her eagerly anticipated debut single 'Ceaser' and, with a couple of acting roles and a career in modelling tucked neatly under her waist belt already, no one blamed the critics for presuming that Coco Sumner’s beauty, wealth and celebrity parents - Sting and Trudie Styler - opened some doors for the 20-year-old.
But on the rare occasions that Coco opened her mouth to speak rather than sing, it became apparent that music was much more to her than the latest whim of a privileged rich kid.
Dubbed then as a Female First One To Watch, we've watched the last year unravel for the 20-year-old with a refreshingly understated success.
We catch up with her before she embarks on her ten date European tour.
How do you feel about becoming an icon?
There’s quite a bit of pressure. I’m not really trying to be an icon or trying to get to a certain place, I just like playing music.
It could be quite overwhelming but I think there are certain ways to avoid that or to keep your cool about it.
You’ve been described as shy by the press yet your stage performances are so energetic –how does that marry up?
I wouldn’t say I’m necessarily shy. I think I’m a better listener than I am a talker but I think on stage I’m my most comfortable.
I feel like I’m at home which is quite strange but I think I take comfort in what most call discomfort.
Does it bother you that these days artists have to be a celebrity as well as a musician?
Yes, it does a little bit but I know that it’s part of the job and yes, it’s a sacrifice you make to play your music but I’m enjoying myself, meeting lots of interesting people and having a good time.
You obviously had a musical upbringing. Is your love for music born of nature or nurture?
I’m not really sure to be honest. I’ve always been completely fascinated by it. I think it was always going to be music.
I started out playing in pubs where no one was listening and that was cool, I was happy doing that. I’m just lucky I can make a career out of it.
Would you ever consider collaborating with your brother or your dad?
I think it’s very important, and anyone could say the same, to keep family and business separate.
FemaleFirst Antonia Charlesworth