JAMIE NORTON ON WORKING WITH A BAND, DREAM TOUR VENUES, AND THE PERFECT BAND ADVICE.

This month we've been in touch with Southampton based indie star Jamie Norton, to talk about all things bands, how it feels to be in a band, how to start a band, and other band influences. We also touch on personal growth and the best advice on how to progress as a band or even just a single artist. Make sure you check his music out and stay tuned for what else is yet to come in the new year on @jamie_norton_

Hey Jamie, please can you give a short introduction as to who you are, just quickly for everyone who isn't yet aware of your work?

My name is Jamie. I'm a singer songwriter based in Southampton. I've been writing for over ten years in a solo format, but have been really enjoying working with a band in the last few years.

What made you start?

I've always been around music and instruments from a really young age, so it was less of a decision to start, and more of a realisation that this was such a huge part of my life! But I suppose seeing The Kooks back in 2006 at Southampton Guildhall was a huge turning point for me, it was the first live show that I'd seen, and made me realise, at 8 years old, that I wanted a career performing music!

That's incredible! Who else were you listening to growing up?

When I was younger I used to listen to a lot of band called Nizlopi. I also enjoy singer songwriters like John Mayer and Ed Sheeran. But I've always had a soft spot for indie pop/rock bands like The Kooks, Razorlight and The 1975. That being said, my bandmates all have quite contrasting music tastes which I think makes us work really well together. We're constantly giving each other new ideas and it's great for us independently as musicians, and as a band!

Absolutely, do you think there's a huge difference between bands then compared to bands now?

Definitely! I'd say that a lot of bands in the last decade or so have had to keep up with the internet, social media and now find themselves constantly battling to find the most engaging content for the algorithms on these platforms. I think these platforms are great for reach, however, I do think that it creates a whole new set of challenges for modern acts. The easy access to music distributors these days makes release music available to pretty much anyone. Which is great for an artists individual empowerment, however, it also means there's a substantial increase in competition for the attention of an audience on social media!

And, what made you want to work with or start a band?

I guess it came down to scaling live performances and actually recording the records. It was just a happy coincidence that I was surrounded by, in my opinion, some of the best musicians in the city to make it all happen.

What does it mean for you to be in a band?

Honestly, everything. It's such a blessing to be able to work with my mates on something I love. It brings new layers of life to my shows and it keeps everything fresh and exciting in rehearsals!

What's next for you personally, and for your brand?

So we've just finished recording our first project, and we're looking to take every performance opportunity that we can to promote it!!

What do you love most about performing?

For me, it's probably getting to see the real, human connection you get from actually performing in comparison to watching through a screen or just by releasing music alone.

Have you ever/would you like to go on tour?

Of course! I'd love to go on tour, even supporting another artist, it's a dream of mine. Our live presence will be increasing substantially in 2024, so hopefully it won't be long!

Are there any places you dream of playing?

In the UK, I'd love to play Alexandra Palace. It's such a great venue! It's also been a dream to play the Guildhall in Southampton, ever since I saw The Kooks there in 2006!

Have you ever played somewhere you weren't feeling, if so, how did you deal with the situation?

I've played shows where I've not been having the best day before, but I think it's really important to make sure to put on the best show possible regardless.

For sure! Have you ever had any amazing fan behaviour towards the band?

Probably the coolest thing so dar is that I got added to a group chat that was intended to be a fan page for an A-list band recently, and the people in the group rebranded the group to be a Jamie Norton fan group! It's actually been incredibly beneficial and incredibly motivating, it pretty much tripled my reach overnight!

I love that!! Do you have any advice for anyone looking to make music outside of being in a band?

Set yourself goals, and make sure that the choices that you're making are in aid of achieving them. It's amazing what you can achieve in a year when you really put your mind to it!

And do you have any different advice for anyone looking to start or be a part of a band?

Don't be scared to start the conversation! If you don't ask, you don't get. Just be ready to work together, instead of expecting people to work FOR you. Respect goes a long way, and mutual respect only strengthens the work you produce!

That's perfect. Finally, do you have anyone you would like to shout out?

Everyone who's been involved in the project so far! Especially my band mates Will Kirk, George Walters and Tiago Martins!