Introducing #126 - Bow Anderson
Let us introduce you to new pop artist Bow Anderson, who has just released her debut track ‘Sweater’ - a bold and refreshing single that blends 60s soul with a modern hip-hop attitude. Bow Anderson took a moment to talk to us about the track and how she got into music.
So, your debut track ‘Sweater’ is out now - how does it feel? What is the track about?
It feels amazing to finally have my first single ‘Sweater’ out in the world! It is about a break-up and the emotions and pain that come with trying to get over someone. Even though your friends are there to help you get by, sometimes it’s not enough to distract you because you’re holding onto a love that is no longer there.
You are born and bred from the East side of Edinburgh, what is it famous for?
Yes! Edinburgh is my home town! It’s probably best known for it’s castle ‘Edinburgh Castle.’ Also Portobello Beach which is very close to my home.
Music wasn't your first path, originally you took to dance and trampolining, but you dislocated your leg in an accident - can you tell us a bit more about that?
My mum enrolled me into dance classes from the age of 2 and for many many years that’s what I saw myself doing. When I was around 10 years old I started trampolining and got into the squad team which you had to be invited to. Sadly I had an injury aged 13 which changed a lot of things. I went to a performance school for dance, acting and singing. This encouraged me to sing as I was unable to dance and so grew my love for music even more. It’s definitely a bittersweet situation as the injury was awful and I still struggle to get my head around it even now, but without it happening I genuinely don’t think I’d be doing music, as my fellow trampoline mates went on to compete for Team GB.
Was it from this accident you found your love for songwriting?
After the accident songwriting and music was my therapy to make me feel better. I had a lot of dark and frustrated emotions for a 13 year old which I released through singing.
From Edinburgh, you moved to London - how was that?
I knew from a young age London was where I was going to end up. Whether it was through dance, music or something creative. Having just turned 19 I was nervous to move down as I didn’t know anyone but I settled in quickly, and luckily never got homesick because I knew in my gut it was right for me.
Do you feel London provided you with more of a music scene compared to where you are from?
Definitely! There’s a massive music scene in London compared to Edinburgh. There’s so much more events going on, gigs, live music and so on. If I stayed in Edinburgh I reckon I wouldn’t have even have had half of the opportunities I’ve had in London.
Who would you say are your key musical influences?
It’s hard to narrow down but my key music influences are probably Beyonce, Amy Winehouse, Aretha Franklin, Bruno Mars and Michael Jackson.
How does a song start for you? And then how do you let it grow?
Songs for me normally start with a chord progression or a production idea. Then melody then the lyrics follow. I’m not strict to that though as sometimes there can be a phrase or concept in mind first.
Now the debut track is out there, what next?
Next! More singles will be released following Sweater towards an album. Festival gigs over summer and lots more!