August 12, 2010 - 11:31 
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Charlotte O'Connor Talks To Us Prior To Her Cornish Gigs
Tags: Charlotte O'Connor, Quiksliver
Area:
Truro Charlotte O'Connor is one of the most promising singers to have emerged on the UK music scene over the past twelve months, along with the likes of Leddra Chapman and Ellie Lawson (fellow Quiksilver Ambassadors and who have are also played / are playing in Cornwall this month) they all possess a laid back and chilled ambience with their music yet a striking voice to match. Ahead of her camper van tour of Cornwall this month, our reporter Amy Dennis caught up with upcoming singer/songwriter Charlotte O'Connor, who chats to about her musical journey, her debut album and her fear of wind turbines...
CC: For those reading who may not have heard of you, give us a little insight into how you started your music career, and how you got to where you are today.
It kinda started when my dad booked guitar lessons for me behind my back, I wasn't up for it at all. I always thought that guitar was a lad's instrument when I was little, but after a few lessons I started to really love it, and as I got better at playing, I started writing songs.
Then my dad signed me up to this summer school at LIPA (Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts) which taught me a lot about song writing and working with other band members, and whilst I was staying in Liverpool with close family friends, they told me about Myspace and what it was all about.
So I signed myself up and when I got home I recorded some songs in a studio near where I live and uploaded them. That's how my management found me. They posted a bulletin asking if anybody knew of any acoustic artists and a lad from LIPA sent my Myspace link. Later that week I signed with them.
After signing with my management I started writing a lot, gigging, co-writing with others and then started working on the album, finding the right kinda vibe that I wanted my music to have, and just learning loads.
I started meeting record labels in New York and the UK and whilst I was in New York my management got a phone call from Columbia Records. I think it was a pretty good phone call, because later that month (16th of December to be precise!) I signed to them. Best Christmas present to date!
CC: You cite many different influences to your music on your various internet pages. Who has been the biggest influence and why?
I have two main influences. One of them is Alicia Keys. She was the first person I ever went to go and see live. I was just spellbound by her and it made me realise that's what I wanna do.
The other main influence is Freddie Mercury. I used to watch Wayne's World a lot when I was about 6 and my favourite scene was where they were in the car listening to Bohemian Rhapsody and I'd rewind it constantly. When my mum and dad had dinner parties I used to mime it. Some people found it funny, others didn't, but I massively enjoyed doing it!
Freddie's music and the way he was on stage really inspired me.
CC: How would you describe your style of music for those who are thinking of coming to your gigs?
Acoustic soul folky kinda stuff, I think … really hard question that!
CC: How did you get involved with Quiksilver? How have they helped you?
They found my music on Myspace as well which was wicked, and they have also joined up with Gibson Guitar which is amazing!
Ever since they found me on Myspace I feel like the style of my music has been massively influenced by the French chilled out lifestyle.
CC: You have played in Cornwall before and you're coming to play for us at numerous locations this month. What draws you back here? It can't be the wind turbines…!
It definitely is not the wind turbines. I have the biggest phobia of them, I am convinced they have something to do with aliens. Not a fan at all!
The reason I wanted to come back and play again is because I get a really good vibe when I'm there and I totally value their musical opinion because everyone there seems so passionate about it. I really love that.
CC: How is the recording of your debut album coming along, any idea when it will be released?
I'm having a top time putting the finishing touches on it, it's sounding just how I imagined which is really top. Date for album release is spring 2011.
CC: What is the most exciting aspect of recording your debut album?
I have never had that feeling of being really proud of something I've done. At school I never finished anything, so it's nice to be able to experience that feeling of self proudness (that's not even a word, but I like it!).
CC: You have supported artists such as Newton Faulkner and James Morrison. Who would be your dream band or artist to support, or to support you?
They were both artists that I had always dreamed of supporting so that was an unreal opportunity. I would love to support Alicia Keys but I don't know if I could emotionally hack it. I'd cry every day! I'd also like to support Jamie Cullum. I think he is freakishly good at what he does.
CC: When is your debut single Headrush due to be released?
I think it's September … well nervous!
CC: Are there any other projects you are working on or have planned at this time?
I'm working with Quiksilver at the moment designing my own jewellery and bracelets, which I'm absolutely loving.
CC: Lastly, do you have a message for the readers of the CornwallsCoolest.com?
Don't stop, never give up, hold ya head high and reach the top, when the world seems to get too tough, bring it all back to you … haha I'm only joking! Me, Uma (the camper van) and the band can't wait to meet you :)
CC: Thanks Charlotte, you've been a star!
Charlotte was Interviewed by Amy Dennis for CornwallsCoolest.com - Amy Dennis is a student about to go into her 3rd and final year of a Journalism degree at Staffordshire University, but has lived in North Cornwall all her life
Check out our preview of Charlotte, her Cornish Gig Dates and a promo video here and make sure you visit her Myspace and Website
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Totally promoting her gigs in Cornwall. Especially the Truro one i will be able to be there for that one (If i don't get stuck in Germany) lol!