Blackpool based singer-songwriter Rob Bridge has had music in his DNA since hearing John Lennon’s blistering vocal on The Beatles rendition of Twist and Shout.
Through the 80s and 90s Rob toured the UK and Europe with Preston band ‘The Cavern’. Later in the 90s, Rob also indulged his passion for all things aviation and learnt to fly, leading to him becoming an elite business jet pilot. For over a decade he flew A list celebrities and Rock stars on tours around the world including Sting, Roger Waters, Queen, Lionel Ritchie and the Kings Of Leon
Although Rob worked mainly with cover bands and co-founded The Rockits, who are the resident house band at Liverpool’s Cavern club, it was while appearing at festival dates in the USA that he started formed the idea to produce a solo album of original material.
His songs for the forthcoming album lean heavily on his love for American music and the “Nashville” sound and fuse classic rock and country rock vibes. Rob’s debut single, True Romance is released on Friday 25th September.
Rob recently took time out to chat to Andy Howells about the music that has influenced him.
What was the first song that made an impact on you?
Twist and Shout by The Beatles. Early rock and roll by artists like Chuck Berry and The Everly Brothers brought me into music, but the Beatles put it all together and Twist and Shout changed my life because that was my introduction to them, I was 12 years old.”
What was the first single /download you bought?
Since You’ve Been Gone by Rainbow
What was the first album you owned?
It was a Pinky and Perky album! (Laughs)
The first album I had that I totally played to death was a Shadows Compilation 20 Golden Greats
What is your constant go to track?
Born to Run…Bruce Springsteen. This varies though and may be“Dancing in the Dark. Sometimes it’s Born to be my baby by Bon Jovi, usually followed by Born to Run.
What is your constant go to album?
Used to be Please Please Me By The Beatles, or Live at The Hollywood Bowl I may go for Into the fire by Bryan Adams or Mechanical Bull by Kings of Leon… Nowadays I have a selection of playlists to suit my mood. Dire Straits have been on my playlist a lot recently…specifically Brothers in Arms.
Who is your latest music discovery?
Nobody new has got to me really but certain artists always get my ears pricked up. Jack Savoretti and Lady Gaga are awesome.
What is your own track that best defines you as an artist?
Probably I would say, the next one I write, but off the album I think Friday Night Lights