9 October 2023
Every Monday I will be bringing you an interview with an independent band, duo or music artist. This week, I caught up with Leeds/Cambridge based artist Sam Macdonald to find out more…
Where are you from and how did you first get into music?
I’m originally from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. I first got into music playing the piano at aged 11 which I fell in love with. Though my journey into production started by messing around on GarageBand when I would get home from school. I then took this seriously and went to Leeds Conservatoire to study music production.
Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
I first wanted to be a producer when I heard Kygo’s ‘Firestone’. That song was pivotal and very nostalgic for me now. I was lucky enough to see him play the song live at Gunnersbury in August.
After developing my sound over the years I would say I more lean towards mainstream pop/synthpop and nu-disco with artists like Dua Lipa and The Weeknd. Anything that’s catchy with a bit of funk. That’s me.
How would you describe your sound?
Mainstream pop/synthpop with a hint of tropical house elements. I am a sucker for synths.
What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
My latest release was called Attached. I first set out to create a bubblegum pop sound, that’s both light and funky. With receiving a positive response from my track Video Games that I released in November 2022, I wanted to take the sound further and go crazy with the sound effects. I think that’s really cool and unique to put into something that’s quite mainstream.
What’s your local music scene like?
Leeds is vibrant and full of energy. There’s a lot going on and you don’t get bored of what to do. The music scene is amazing, as you’ve got the Conservatoire as well as the main university and Arts university too.
What do you have planned for the next 12 months?
After graduating university last year, I’ve started a freelance mixing and mastering service. I’ve received a handful of regular clients and I’m loving it so far. I hope for this to grow and become more of a regular thing. I’m also working with a production company on some library music too, and I’m producing a fair few remixes at the moment.
Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
Kygo, Sandro Cavazza, Dua Lipa. Those are the big names that come to mind. But Jonas Blue and David Guetta would also be amazing opportunities too.
What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you?
If you’re a singer or songwriter I’d love to do work together or produce a remix for you. Whenever I come across a cool mixing or mastering tip I’ll post it on my social media.
Sam is based between Leeds and Cambridge. You can find out more about him on his website or via Apple Music, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify or TikTok.
You can also read my interview with Sam about his EP “After Dark” here.
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