After spending the last few years releasing a flurry of bright and uplifting pop delights, London-based singer and songwriter Sam Seccombe is back once again to share his latest gem 'Toxic History'.
Lifted from his upcoming new EP 'To Be Quite Frank', which is set to arrive in the very near future, 'Toxic History' showcases some of his best work to date. Channelling a rich and vibrant direction worthy of a Tom Misch comparison, this new release is just what we need as the sun starts shining again.
So with the new single doing the rounds, we joined him in a sit down to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him lately.
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What was the first instrument you learned to play?
The guitar - I first picked it up at about 11 years old and it’s become a permanent and ever-welcome source of inspiration and joy. It’s also been an invaluable vehicle for my artistic development. I think that having such an affinity with the guitar has definitely allowed me to approach musical challenges that I would have otherwise just avoided for fear of failing - most notably, learning to sing and write my own songs. I owe a great deal of my confidence and musical identity to the guitar., and I have no doubt it will be something I keep by my side for the rest of my life.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I’m pretty sure the first album I ever ‘owned’ was on iTunes - namely ‘Mylo Xyloto’ by Coldplay (don’t judge...). I loved it at the time and used to listen to it on repeat, on my iPod Nano (remember those?), although I can’t say I still feel the same sentiment over a decade on.
Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they sound like?
I did! Quite a few, and I loved it. I played in an alt-rock band called ‘Drive’ with my mates during school, and experienced my first few proper gigs in the time we were together. Think Wolf Alice / Bombay Bicycle Club. I also played guitar and bass in a jazz trio, which was some of the most fun I’ve ever had playing music with other people.
What is a song you wish you had written yourself?
Of all my favourite artists, the one who’s songwriting I envy the most in Prince. He really did it all, and although I’m not sure choosing one of his tracks would do him any justice, it’s gotta be Raspberry Beret.
What has been the most thrilling moment about creating your own music?
One moment that always sticks in my mind was back in January 2020. It was one of the last bits of live music I did before lockdown, which feels bizarre looking back on it. I decided to hold a gig at my home back in London to launch my EP ‘Long Time Coming’ at the time, and although it was a room full of familiar faces, I felt more nervous than I could ever really remember being before a gig, and I couldn’t understand why. There was this one song on the setlist that night - newly written, newly released, and pretty much never practised. I think I’d been avoiding it at the time because the subject was still fresh, and 3 notes in, I instantly started to regret my nonchalance. It was a little shaky at first, but there was a moment of clarity which helped me turn it all around. I think I recognised that everyone there, including me, would find the value in the sentiment of the track - raw, and uncertain, and honest - no matter how I played, in the same way I was able to write the track in the first place. It felt like it came full circle.
And what about the most frustrating part?
For sure the most frustrating part is keeping up the motivation, particularly during lockdown. You don’t get quite the same emotional depth in the reaction from behind a screen unfortunately, and it can often feel like the hard work is just lost amongst the overwhelming buzz of the digital stage.
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again - John Mayer. The guy’s a legend. He’s monstrously talented and I have no doubt I’d learn a huge amount from him, alongside the best jam of my life.
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
I wish I knew this one. Have you got the answers sheet? I just want to be around some outgoing musicians, some like-minded friends and a guitar. I know that the rest will fall into place that way.
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Sam Seccombe's new single 'Toxic History' is available to stream now. Check it out below.
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