It’s been quite a year so far for Glasgow born, Manchester based singer, songwriter Tom Walker. His evocative song ‘Just You & I’ has just gone top 30 AC in the USA, he played an acoustic version of his heart felt ‘Blessings’ on BBC 2’s Saturday night Glastonbury coverage and has just been added to the Radio 1 Brits List.
With his mighty new single ‘Heartland’ just hitting the airwaves, co-written and produced with Naughty Boy, Tom is announcing his biggest tour so far. Tom is currently putting the finishing touches on his debut album, due for release early next year. We caught up with ahead of his hometown gig in November…
When did you first start making music?
I first started making music when I was in primary school, I played violin for a short time. To be honest I was totally rubbish at it, guitar makes much more sense to me.
Who is your biggest influence?
Angus Young, I still remember seeing an AC/DC concert on TV and he was running around the stage like a chicken man, bashing out some next level solo’s. From then onwards I always wanted to play guitar, so i could be like him.
What was your first gig?
First gig I can remember was AC/DC in Paris when I was 9
What is your favourite song to play live?
I’ve got a new song out called Heartland, its so much fun to play live! Its got a sick guitar riff in it and it’s a bit heavier than my usual stuff.
What is your favourite album of all time?
It’s a tough one. I would probably say “All Killer No Filler” by “Sum41” I listened to that constantly when I was a teenager.
Who would you most like to collaborate with?
Paolo Nutini. Love his voice, he’s a wicked writer and he’s from Scotland. What more could you want?
Have you ever met someone that’s made you starstruck?
I ran into Matt Bellamy at a random roof top party in London around 2 years ago. I was totally wasted and probably wasn’t making much sense to him, but he was totally lovely and very humble, and yes I was totally star stuck.
What has been your favourite song this year?
No Roots by Alice Merton. Such an amazing tune! love her voice and her style of writing.
What should people expect at one of your gigs?
Imagine a unicorn riding into battle with an army of swans. My gigs aren’t anything like that.
If you could choose anything to be on your rider, what would it be?
Sip Smith Sloe Gin, that stuff is the bomb. Normally I would have said Beer, but I’ve had to curb drinking that on tour in order to avoid turning into Jabba the Hutt.
Tom Walker tickets available here
Website – iamtomwalker.com
Facebook – /IAmTomWalker
Twitter – @IamTomWalker
Instagram – @IAmTomWalker
Tags: Access All Areas / interview / tom walker