Irish singer/songwriter Callum Stewart is a force to be reckoned with. His soulful pop sound and his youthful lyrics are everything you want as an artist. CelebMix had a chat with the up and coming artist about his inspirations, new music video, and what he has in store for the future.
How would you describe your music?
I always find this a super hard question but I would say it’s a mixture of pop, soul and alternative music. I listen to a bit of everything which means it’s hard for me to pin down exactly what I sound like!
What gives you the passion to pursue it?
You know that feeling when you’re in your room or at a concert listening to your favourite artist playing your favourite song and you sort of want to burst? That’s something that I only get from music and really gives me the drive to chase a career in the industry. I also just love writing songs as an artform. It’s incredibly relaxing and can be very social so my thinking is, if I can do it for a job, why not?
Who and/or what are some of your inspirations?
I listen to the weirdest mixture of music. Ranging from country to rock to pop to gospel to grime, it’s mental! David Bowie is someone who I think has inspired the majority of songwriters in the last few decades and I am no different. I am constantly seeking to revolutionise music like he did and I really hope I hit that bar someday. Some current artists I’m listening to are LANY, Sampher, Natty Reves and Leon Bridges. All incredible songwriters doing something a bit different to everyone else. Definitely inspiring.
Tell us about “The Dam”
The Dam is a song I wrote a couple of years ago. I had the imagery in my head before I put the song down on paper as the picture of two people, standing in the midst of the chaos that life throws, promising not to let go and to stand firm, it’s something that struck me as incredibly powerful. It is a song I am incredibly proud of lyrically as well as melodically as I feel that I’ve really said something with this song which is always my aim.
What can you tell us about the video?
I’m so proud of it. The team who helped me with it are some of the most talented individuals I’ve ever had the privilege of working with. The main theme we tried to get across in the video is the power of the bond of a relationship. It’s that special connection which no matter how hard it can get and how rough it can look, you never really want to let go. The two actors who agreed to be in the video were incredible. They understood our vision and gave us more than we could have imagined. I can’t wait for people to see it.
What is your favorite part of performing?
I don’t think I’m going to give the usual answer to this question. I don’t live for the euphoria or adrenaline rush that performing gives although it is fun. I love that moment when you’re playing in front of an incredible crowd and during some of the quieter songs, you all feel like you’re one in the moment. I love intensity in music and to feel like you’re experiencing it with a bunch of strangers is an insane feeling.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Like a lot of people, my ultimate goal is to be able to be a professional full-time songwriter and musician. That’s the dream, right? In ridiculous dreamland, I’d love to do a world tour to places I’ve never experienced before like Central Asia or South America. I also wouldn’t say no to a Grammy.
What can we expect next for you?
More music very soon and loads more shows including some really excting announcments. It’s gonna be a fun few months!
Do you want to know more about Callum? You can head to his facebook here.
Tweet us at @CelebMix and let us know if you love Callum!