Q: Welcome! Can you introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m a singer-songwriter based in the midlands of the UK and also have a huge passion for the sport. Growing up I listened to bands like Oasis, Radiohead, and Coldplay on repeat, whilst attempting to become a professional tennis player. I spent my university days studying sports science, playing tennis, and performing in a covers band called ‘The Routes’, which helped me to develop as a musician and performer. It was during this time I started writing my own material and capturing ideas on a portable 6-track recorder! Since then I’ve gone on to release several songs in support of various sporting charities or organizations (now found on an EP called ‘Anything Is Possible’) a second EP called ‘Broken But Beautiful’ and a bunch of singles. I also coach in the British wheelchair tennis program, which has taken me to two Paralympic Games and continues to challenge me in new ways.
Q: You recently released your new single ”Summertime Compass” – can you tell us what the song is about?
Summertime Compass was one of the first songs I wrote during my university days around 20 years ago. The song reflects that carefree stage of life I was in at the time and delivers an optimistic message about the possibilities that lie ahead. It’s about going with the flow, being true to yourself, and trusting that things will work out fine in the end.
Q: What inspirations do you take when writing your music?
I’ve been inspired by all sorts of people and experiences over the years, which has led to me writing songs about becoming a father, my Polish grandmother who went through so much in World War 2, the sports and athletes I’ve worked with, my faith which is my bedrock and the importance of looking after our planet and those on it. I’m motivated to put some positivity back into a world that can so easily sap it up, and I’m committed to doing this by any means, of which music is one.
Q: Who are your current favorite new artists?
I love listening to and discovering a range of music, but recently I’ve been particularly enjoying the new single ‘Moonflowers (Best Friend)’ by Tommy Ashby, the latest album ’10 Tracks to Echo in the Dark’ from The Kooks, the upcoming ‘(self-titled)’ record from Marcus Mumford, Jack Johnson’s recent release ‘Meet The Moonlight’ and C’MON YOU KNOW by Liam Gallagher.
Q: Who would your dream collaboration be with, and why?
My dream collaboration would be with Coldplay, just because of the sheer number of inspirational songs they’ve released over the years which have influenced or impacted me as an artist and person. I also feel I can relate to the vocal style of Chris Martin.
Q: What does the rest of the year have in store for you?
Later this year I’m looking to release an acoustic version of ‘Waiting For You, which is the song I wrote about my Grandmother – the main version can be found on ‘Broken But Beautiful. I’ve also got plans to record another five-track EP called ‘Stop and Breathe’ which will be released in support of the incredible reforestation work of ‘One Tree Planted’ next year. If you’d like to find out more or support this project please head over to rocketfuelhq.com/alexanderjoseph
