George Owens is a 22-year-old rising musician from Portsmouth City in the UK. Poppy Huggett caught up with this big uprising artist for this week’s Saturday Special!
Poppy Huggett: What music influences influenced you to pursue your career in this field?
The biggest musical influence on me is Motown founded by Berry Gordy. I love how the music never gets old. I love the passion behind Motown music. Although Motown artists faced heavy racism and were discriminated against, they still continued to challenge these ideas and create the music because they were in love with the sound. Today they still influence artists like me!
P.H: How would you describe the music you create?
So my music has quite a large variety and range, from Ballads to RnB/Garage. Music to me is very personal and my aim is to create music that fits for a wide audience, rather than just one minority.
P.H: That’s great, but if you had to pick just one genre, what would you chose?
If I had to pick one I’d probably chose a ballad. I love connecting with people and ballads can allow the audience to relate on an emotional level.
P.H: Who would you most like to collaborate with?
If I was able to collab with someone it would have to be Ed Sheeran. Ed’s music connects with people across the world! He is such an inspiring lyricist and his songs are always amazing! Not just that but he seems like a genuinely down to earth person who doesn’t take anything for granted.
P.H: How has your career path changed in the last 12 months?
It has changed massively in the last year! I went from working 4 jobs to leaving them all and pursue my music career with the instruction of my management team. I was a Pe Teacher, working in a post office, hosted games in youth centers, and ran my own sports camp. As much as I loved each of these roles, I knew it wasn’t sustainable if I wanted to follow my music career! But I definitely would love to teach again one day.
PH: Have you always been interested in music? Was there a particular song/performance that made you think “Yep… that’s what I want to do!”
Yes, I’ve always been a music lover. In school, I was too scared to perform or even sing in front of people. My mum and I used to take turns on the karaoke machine after school, she was what made me fall in love with music. I think I was around 8 or 9 when I went on holiday and sang “I Will Always Love You” by the great Whitney Houston. Seeing the reaction from people connecting with my voice was when I realized this was what I wanted to do as a career. Personally, there is no better feeling and I’d love to do it on a much larger scale.
PH: Have you got any advice for aspiring artists?
If I had any advice, I would say make sure you do it as a hobby and follow your passion. It’s currently really hard if you don’t have a management of a backer because no venues are open to performing in. I would also say don’t be scared to pursue a music career because you think people may judge you! As cheesy as it sounds you only have one life so do what makes you happy!
P.H :What has been the most challenging aspects of your career so far?
The COVID-19 pandemic has probably been the biggest issue as I can’t perform anywhere. Thankfully I’m still able to record songs, following the correct safety precautions. My career path itself has been fortunately very smooth sailing!
P.H :What can we expect from you in the next 12 months?
Well, I am excited about big things in the next 12 months! Around February 2021 I will be releasing my first single which fortunately has major financial backing so I’m hoping it will reach a huge audience in the UK and maybe America! Depending on the current climate I may be performing at some festivals and very known venues through a tour in the UK!
