Can you tell us about your latest project? What inspired it, and what can your fans expect from it?
I have a new album in the making that’s called ‘Traveler’s Heart’. For my previous release I wanted to make an album as acoustic as possible and me and my producer Janos Koolen picked Lucas Beukers on bass and Joost van Es on violin to make the album. When that took off as it did we played so many shows and it felt like it was the best I’d ever done. Press and audiences and the joy of playing together all inspired me to make a whole new album and I am thrilled!
Songwriting can be a cathartic process. What emotions or messages do you hope your music conveys to listeners?
I hope I can bring some joy and some comfort through my songs. A bit of laughter as well because however sad the song may be there must be some kind of glimpse of comfort maybe at the end of the day? And humour too, there’s got to be some air in it as well.
How has your musical style evolved over the years, and what do you hope to convey through your music now compared to when you first started your career?
I started really, really young as a punk-rocker. Classic story, you learn three chords and you’re off. Three chords and the truth as we saw it. I was a real anglophile at the time. Started listening to the Beatles when I was just a kid. And all these bands came over from England in the late 70’s and 80’s. The Jam, Siouxsie, Madness, you name it I’ve seen them. I guess at one point I started listening to American music and Dylan. I learned myself to fingerpick the guitar and when my band broke up it was just me. So playing solo has taught me a whole lot as well. When I started the singer-songwriter thing was practically nonexistant.
Many fans look up to their favorite artists as role models. What advice do you have for aspiring musicians who hope to make a name for themselves in the music industry?
I have no advice really. Just go and follow your heart and don’t listen to what others may think you should be doing..It takes a while to find your voice I believe, it’s like growing up 😉 The things you think you know now may prove to be otherwise so, just keep ,an open mind.
In the age of streaming and digital platforms, how do you navigate the challenges of making a living as a recording artist, and what advice would you give to aspiring musicians trying to break into the industry?
If only I knew that eh? If there was such a thing as a program to follow..I don’t know. Many musicians before me have said some smart things about the business. Frank Zappa and Joni Mitchell and many more. With all those streaming platforms it is necessary to tour to make a living. I’m afraid the word industry implies working in a factory instead of making art. Maybe it has become that way for many.
Your image and style often become part of your brand as an artist. How do you approach your personal image and fashion choices to express yourself and connect with your fans?
Well, I remember that as a young punk your outfit was important for whatever reason even if it wasn’t obvious to the mainstream. I still think it’s important. Someone once told me when you go play for people you got to give them some respect by not only playing your best but also by looking your best. So I won’t walk on stage dressed like I’d be dressed at home.
The future is always uncertain, but what are your long-term goals and aspirations as a recording artist, and what can your fans expect from you in the coming years?
Well I have been recording for twenty years now and that just amazes me. I try not to look beyond the new album that is coming in September. But if all goes well I may have some records left in me.. who knows, the best is yet to come, eh?