South Shields born singer, Sonny is probably best known for his laid-back ballads, but his latest single Place I Love presents a much bigger sound.
“Place I Love is about my hometown South Shields,” says Sonny, “Growing up with the amazing Geordie night life and my group of friends. I always miss it when I’m away from home, it seems especially relevant in the present times as we can’t go out with our mates and this song always brings back good memories for me of when everything was normal”
Sonny first started gigging around the Newcastle area when he was just 14 years old. His influences were broadly drawn from his parents’ love of music, covering vintage R&B, soul, folk and country. That gave him the foundations to build a following from a young age, with EPs Hopeless Romance (2017), Northern Nights (2018) and the all-acoustic Beech Road. He also collaborated with Hannah Grace for two tracks in 2019.
Here, Sonny discusses his music DNA with Andy Howells.
What was the first song that made an impact on you?
The song that had a massive impact on me was In Love With Another Man by Jazmine Sullivan. I really started to try and copy her runs etc to make my voice better.
Can you remember your first download?
The first single I downloaded was a Coldplay song I think. Massive fan of them, maybe Sparks or something from the album Parachutes
What was the first album you bought?
The first album I bought was Undiscovered by James Morrison! Some absolute bangers on there.
What’s your go to track?
My go to track is He’s Misstra know it’s all by Stevie Wonder. I must’ve listened to that song a million times and still not sick of it
How about your go to album?
Go to album is Innervisions by Stevie Wonder. He’s got some great albums but that’s my favourite.
Who’s your latest Music Discovery?
My latest music discovery is Tate McRae. Listened to You Broke Me First the other day and it’s so good
Which song best defines you as an artist?
My song that defines me as an artist is probably Calm Down. I take most pride in my vocals and I really went for it on this one. It’s very stripped back and one of my favourites I’ve released.