INTERVIEW: Izzy Thomas — Music Musings & Such

INTERVIEW:

Izzy Thomas

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TO start this week...

Izzy Thomas has been discussing her new single, Trouble (Pull the Trigger), and what it is about; if we might get some more material soon and the albums that hold a special place in her heart; the artists she grew up listening to.

I wanted to know whether there will be tour dates and how Thomas’ songs come to mind; which artists she’d support if she had the opportunity; which rising artists are worth a look – she ends the interview by selecting a great new song.

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Hi, Izzy. How are you? How has your week been?

Hectic as always but can't complain!

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

I am a half-British, half-Iranian recording artist that writes songs with a mixture of Alternative-Pop, along with the soul of Blues but the attitude of Rock.

Trouble (Pull That Trigger) is your new single. What is the tale behind it?

Trouble (Pull the Trigger) is an anthem for anybody who has felt belittled or like an outcast in their life. This song’s about standing up for yourself towards the B.S. that stands in your way! I feel like, especially for women right now, this is a big deal.

Is there going to be more material coming later this year?

Definitely. My next single is getting mastered today. I have visuals and a story for its music video in my head!

Which artists were important to you growing up? Who do you rank as idols?

Michael Jackson, I’d say, was the biggest influence; Queen, vocally and, for her message, Christina Aguilera. Her first Stripped album - where she wrote with the likes of Linda Perry and Alicia Keys - was absolutely amazing. It was so diverse but still represented her.

How do songs come to you? Will you set time aside to write or do you let inspiration hit?

A bit of both really. I think all songwriters agree that you can put in the work and have a cool song but, when it comes from a particular happening or emotion, then often the song will kinda just fall on your lap.

Do you have a standout memory from your time in music so far?

Last week, I was premiered by Billboard! That was pretty cool. I don’t know...my career is surprising me all the time.

Which three albums mean the most to you would you say (and why)?

Michael Jackson – Bad

Dirty Diana is my favourite song!

Christina Aguilera – Stripped

Honest, real and raw.

Green Day - American Idiot

Very political but for all the right reasons. This sound smacked me in the face when I was a kid. I really got more in to Punk after this.

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Bishop Briggs is really cool; Lenny Kravitz, someone like that! I'd request Jaffa Cakes on my rider - vegan Jaffa Cakes though!

You campaign for Autism Awareness. What was the reason for getting involved for that charity?

My brother has Asperger’s syndrome. I think, if a young person like myself was visiting schools and educating young people on what it actually is, my brother would have had a much easier childhood. I would have too.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

A lot of voices will give you a lot of different pieces of advice: don’t forget to listen to your voice...and your gut!

Do you think there are going to any tour dates coming up?

Tour, maybe, in a few months. I plan to (definitely) do a few festivals this year.

How important is performing? Do you prefer it to life in the studio?

I like the freedom of playing live: in the studio everything's a little too perfect and nothing’s spontaneous. Performing is when you get first-hand experience of how your song is going down with the listener.

IN THIS PHOTO: KilliT

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

KilliT are an awesome new Rock band who are also friends of mine. Donna Missal is cool; Gareth Esson and Finding Kate.

IN THIS PHOTO: Donna Missal

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I like to be around my friends and family. I’m easily pleased! It’s important because it keeps me grounded. I love going to this shooting ranch in Camden. We fire at targets and it’s the most fun thing!

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Finding Kate - Drowning