Music interview: Rebecca Hurn

Every Monday we will be bringing you interviews with unsigned UK or Ireland artists for Independent Music Monday. Recently we caught up with unsigned singer Rebecca Hurn to find out more…

Where are you from and how did you first get into music?
I am from a small seaside town near Cardiff. I first got into music by having piano lessons at a young age. I had a guitar for Christmas when I was 17 and that’s when I started to sing and write my own music.

Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
From a young age my dad was particularly musical and would play albums by The Beatles and Queen which I still love today. I really enjoyed country from a young age and partially liked listening to Taylor Swift, James Taylor and Carole King. These are still my influences now, with a hint of folk-pop to add to my listening library. Growing up I enjoyed listening to the radio and hearing the new pop sounds that were ever-changing. I think this is where my pop streak comes from in my writing. Artists that are my biggest influences right now are Taylor Swift, Joni Mitchell, Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) and Kacey Musgraves.

How would you describe your sound?
I would describe my sound as unique. I always find it hard to put my music into one genre. I think I am a hybrid of singer-songwriter, folk, indie, with an alternative-pop top line to finish it off! I would say that each song may be a slightly different genre, which makes it all more interesting.

What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
My latest release is my new single ‘Panic’. Exploring the doubts and worries one may face when starting a new relationship, or even worrying that said relationship will be over before its begun. It’s perceived so differently for everyone, which I love. We all have a moment of panic at some point in our day to day lives, so I’m glad it has been taken well by the listeners.

What’s your local music scene like?
At the moment, quiet. It’s sad, I really miss performing and it’s something that keeps me going as an artist. I miss the buzz from playing live and hearing the reactions to when I play a new song. Most of all I just miss people. The live scene in Cardiff is great fun, although predominately rock music. It’s hard to keep at it when you’re just a small girl with a big guitar, but slowly and surely I know I’ll find my place!

What do you have planned for the next 12 months?
I’m praying with every atom in my being that the next 12 months goes to plan. I’m (hopefully) playing at Isle of Wight festival in September. I really hope it goes ahead this time, third time lucky! I have also spent the majority of lockdown writing and recording my debut album, which for now I am unsure of the release date as I’m still working on it. I hope it could be around Autumn time as that’s my favourite time of year! ha!

Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
I’d love to write with Gabrielle Aplin and Justin Vernon, I think we have similar songwriting techniques which could be so much fun! Maisie Peters is another artist I think I could write a great track with. There’s so many great artists out there now, I’d be happy to work with anyone with similar sounds as me.

What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you?
I love interacting with my audience! If you like my music, please reach out! It would be great to meet some new fans!

You can find out more about Rebecca on her website or via Facebook, Instagram, SoundCloud, Spotify, TikTok, Twitter or YouTube.