Thom Cross
New Zealand born but London-based, Thom Cross is ready to take on the world with his new single 'Heavy Sea', mixed by the Grammy Award-winning Guy Massey.
The thumping dance-blues track is a great introduction to the musician, who promises great things for the future, and we got the chance to put some questions to the rising star about life as a musician, working your way into the industry and upcoming live shows.
How would you describe yourself as an artist?
I’m a a vocalist first, and although solo artists often get labelled as singer-songwriters, I’m not a troubadour in that sense; I write band-oriented music. My approach to songwriting is quite classic, there’s a strong emphasis on lyrics and melody, but combined with contemporary arrangements and production.
How difficult would you say it is to break into the music industry?
Very, particularly in the UK. You need a combination of persistence, great music, ideally a few contacts and a healthy dose of luck and good timing.
Your single's out March 3, can you tell us a little bit about it and the creative process behind it?
It’s called ‘Heavy Sea’, and it’s what I call a ‘dance-blues’ - an uptempo track but with a strong, melancholic undertone; the song is about longing, about feeling out of place, about fighting through tough circumstances to reach the people or places you love. It was written in Stockholm with Martin Hedstrom, who’s a very well-known songwriter/producer over there. Sweden has such a rich pop history, it’s a great place to write music. The song came together really quickly - we had it written and a demo recorded within a day.
What is it about music that you love?
Simply the way it makes you feel; the way it can conjure a memory or emotion with just a few notes. My most vivid memories all have music at their centre.
Have you had any favourite moments in your career to-date?
If I had to pick one, it was probably recording with Guy Massey (Grammy-winning producer/engineer - Manic Street Preachers, Paul McCartney). I learned a huge amount about the recording process from him, and what it takes to make a record sound amazing.
For fans coming to your UK dates, what should they expect?
A high energy, up tempo show; some witty banter (maybe) - and they will, at some point, be asked to clap along, so be prepared!
Who would you work with if you could pick anyone and why?
The list is huge, but if could pick anyone, it would be David Bowie. Incredible songwriter, so adventurous artistically - if I could get past being utterly intimidated, it would be an incredible experience.
Where do you hope to be this time next year?
Number 1 album, sold out tour, legions of fans - am I asking too much?
Thom Cross' debut single 'Heavy Sea' is out March 3, the music video to which you can watch below.