Introducing #134 - Hydie Humbles
Let us introduce you to Hydie Humbles, a singer-songwriter from London. She has just released her debut track ‘Barcelona’ - she took a moment to talk to us about the track.
So, the debut track is out now - how does it feel?
It's a huge relief actually! I wrote this song two years ago after I'd taken a couple of months out to work in Barcelona, but releasing it just never felt quite right until now.
It is called ‘Barcelona’, can you tell us what it is about?
It's a fictitious tale of a woman contemplating single motherhood, drawing on her inner strength as she prepares to overcome the challenges she knows she'll face. I was inspired by a conversation I had with a woman at my hostel, but to me Barcelona also represents the 'foreign' feeling the protagonist is experiencing as she navigates a first time pregnancy.
You are based in London, what do you like about the city? Where do you like to go to discover new music?
London has an incredible music scene, specifically if jazz/neo soul/alternative R&B is your thing. I'm East London based and love joints like Troy Bar for their jam nights and Folklore for discovering new independent artists. The warehouse scene in North and East London also harbours some incredible low-key jam nights.
You started on the music scene as a drummer, supporting bands like Kids in Glass Houses. What made you want to step out from behind the drum kit and start making your own music?
I've always loved to sing, but more as a form of self-expression rather than to entertain. I remember turning up to shows with my band and people would always assume I was the singer, so I stubbornly stayed away from singing and songwriting just to prove everybody wrong. I've since realised that kind of thinking never got anyone anywhere, and strongly believe anyone should be free to pursue whatever passion they have without feeling any obligation to fulfil a particular role. I'm still quite stubborn, hence the time it's taken to release my debut single.
There are some lovely soulful sounds to your music, who would you say are your key musical influences?
I've been channeling influences like Tori Kelly, Kehlani, Jhené Aiko and Daniel Ceasar through this project, but I was raised on Rage Against The Machine and Red Hot Chili Peppers. My favourite artist at the moment is Vicente Garcia - his music transports me.
Now the debut track is out there, what's next?
I'll be releasing two more singles this summer. Keep an eye out!