24 March 2025
Every Monday I will be bringing you an interview with an independent band, duo or music artist. This week, I caught up with Leeds based artist Jos McLaren to find out more…
Where are you from and how did you first get into music?
I am originally from Buckinghamshire, but have lived in Leeds since 1997. I grew up singing at church and playing my flute so music has always been a big part of my life.
Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
Growing up, I was drawn to the harmonies of Take That and the instrumentation of The Corrs. My music is influenced now by artists who tell stories through their music. I love how Taylor Swift captures emotions in lyrics, and the way that The Script makes every song feel like a personal conversation. Their storytelling and melodies really shaped how I write and connect with music today.
How would you describe your sound?
My current sound has a pop edge accompanied by an elegant vocal, blending sincerity and warmth over anthemic melodies.
What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
‘You Are’ is an uplifting pop single, a heartfelt tribute to the love of your life. The lyrics express the deep connection with someone who stands by you through life’s challenges. As someone living with Stage 4 breast cancer I am very thankful for the special people in my life so it came out of that place of gratitude. The listener can dedicate it to someone special or find comfort in its lyrics.
What’s your local music scene like?
Leeds has a varied music scene, ranging from big name artists at the First Direct Arena to unsigned independent artists at smaller venues like The Northern Guitar bar. There is something for everyone, catering to all genres of music.
What do you have planned for the next 12 months?
Over the next 12 months, I’m focusing on growing as an artist and connecting with more people through my music. I’ve got more songs to release, including a cover of Kiss Me (Sixpence None The Richer) with Alison Wheeler (The South) which we are donating to Against Breast Cancer charity.
I’m also looking to do live performances, whether that’s intimate gigs or bigger opportunities, because there’s nothing like sharing music in the moment with an audience.
I’ll also continue writing and collaborating, pushing myself creatively, and submitting songs for artists and sync projects. I will be attending several writing camps, including one in Marrakesh.
Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
The Script!!!!! And The Shires.
What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you?
I rediscovered my passion for writing songs as a result of being diagnosed with terminal breast cancer in 2020. I am so thankful for this as music it brings me so much joy. It helps me keep a positive attitude and gives me so much to look forward to that I simply don’t have time for cancer!
You can find out more about Jos via Apple Music, Bandcamp, Instagram, SoundCloud, Spotify, TikTok, YouTube (channel) or YouTube Music.
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