Spacey and crazy. London’s own Only Real is as genuine as they come. The pop/hip-hop artist sat down with us and chatted about his experiences as a rising artist overseas, his U.S. debut, and his story from the top. You can check out the video for his track. “Can’t Get Happy” below.
How does it feel to be releasing your first EP in the U.S.?
It’s cool, after having such an amazing time at SXSW especially I’m really hyped to start getting my music heard in the u.s. Ive always loved the country an it’s always seemed quite glamorous for me.
What was the best part of writing/recording One for the Road?
Spending time in Atlanta recording was really great! It was really chilled and I was able to fully immerse myself in making tunes and have some time alone to focus. Also working with a befriending dan who I did the other songs with in London was great fun.
Who or what do you draw musical influence from?
Generally I’m influenced by the things I see around me and the things Ive experienced and felt, it’s quite observational like that.
How did you get involved in music?
I had a little Spanish classical guitar when I was 14 and I started learning a few chords and singing my little rhymes along to it, that’s where I see the roots coming from I think.
What is the story behind your current single “Can’t Get Happy”?
Typical love stuff ya know? I was bogged down in that lethargic feeling that can come with heart break but at least I got the song out of it.
What was it like making the video for “Can’t Get Happy”?
The key was me and lee (the animator/director) nailing the aesthetic before we filmed anything. We sent each other loads of references then when we were confident we were both on the same page and had the characters perfect I sat in front of a green screen an then he worked every minute of every hour drawing on top.
What track from the EP are you most excited for your fans to hear?
The nice thing about having an EP or album rather than singles like I have done up till now is that it’s like a body of work and people can decide for themselves. I really like them all!
How would you describe your writing process?
It’s quite spontaneous for the most part. Little ideas on my phone and stuff, then ill start playing guitar an flesh things out from there. Although sometimes it’s totally different that’s just a structure Ive used in the past.
Are you planning to come visit/tour the U.S. soon?
When the record comes out in the fall I think. That’s the latest I’ve heard. I can’t wait to get over there and start playing to be honest.
What is one thing you want listeners to take away from One for the Road?
I hope there are little sections of lyrics that really resonate with people that’s something that is important to me but generally whatever people like about it is cool with me, it’s quite open music an can be interpreted in different ways. It’s all good!
