We caught up with London-based musician Mortimer Jackson following the release of his single ‘Ghosts’ in September 2020. Enjoy!
How did you first get into music?
I started playing the piano when I was 9, but when I became a teenager and got into Oasis, I switched to guitar, I thought it was much cooler, and I could take it anywhere I went!
What is the first song that captured your attention as a youngster?
The Beatles, ‘Happiness Is A Warm Gun’, I love the arrangement and vocals.
Who influenced your latest release?
Portishead and Radiohead.
You worked with Grammy-nominated producer Robert Harder on ‘Ghosts’, what brought about that collaboration?
Robert has mastered all of my singles, but this time I asked him to mix it as well, I really love his work, he is based in California, so it was mixed remotely which is a first for me, but it worked really well.
You have received airplay from Steve Lamacq on his 6music Recommends show, how did that feel?
It was incredible. I’ve been a huge fan of his for so many years, and value his opinion highly.
We see you have a little boy, how has becoming a Dad changed your songwriting?
He loves music and banging on the drums; I’ve come up with some punky riffs jamming with him! He’s only three years old!
What motivates you to make music?
Everyday situations, anything that makes me stop and think. Usually, a tune will just pop into my head, and it starts from there really.
If you could open for any artist/band who would it be?
It would have to be Liam or Noel!
What’s your favourite venue to play?
The best venue I ever played was Shepherds Bush Empire back in the day, was a great experience!
What are your other passions aside from music?
I love DIY and fixing things.
If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?
Banning pay to play promoters, musicians at the grassroots level have a hard enough time as it is.
What new music are you listening to at the moment?
I’m really into a new band called The Clockworks.
What musical plans do you have for the next two years?
Hoping to release an EP early next year, and to get gigging as soon as I can!
FV Music Blog September 2020
https://www.facebook.com/mortimerjacksonmusic
https://www.instagram.com/mortimerjacksonmusic
Twitter: @mortijackson
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