X Factor winner Ben Haenow explores his life between X Factor till now, in recently released album, ‘Alive’. Talking to us, he reveals more about his inspirations and influences, his evolution as an artist and much more.
What is the message/inspiration behind your album ‘Alive’?
I would say it’s inspired by my life between The X Factor up until now and the highs and lows in between. Overall, it’s a positive album so I hope people can take a positive message away with them.
Would you say your music is based more off personal experiences? Or do you take a lot of creative liberties with it?
Mainly I try and write from experiences I’ve had. Obviously, a bit of embellishment is great but I find it easiest to write from experience.
How has your sound evolved? How would you say being an independent artist has helped in this evolution?
I would say total creative freedom has been a great benefit of being an independent artist; being able to experiment with sounds and song writing and taking a little more time over creating the tracks.
Who or what inspires you, both on a personal level, and professionally?
Musical inspiration for me comes from old blues and soul music, they had a great way of storytelling in the lyrics that always pulled me in. The honesty in the lyrics is always something that I liked.
If listeners could take away one message from your music, what would you want that to be?
My song ‘Getaway’ is about not giving up on your dreams so I’d say that’s a good (if slightly cheesy) message to take away.
What’s one song on your personal playlist you’ve had on repeat recently and why?
‘Hard Times’ by John Legend and The Roots… it’s a banger! The drum groove and the melodies… EPIC.
What’s one question no one asks in an interview you wished you were asked?
I’d like someone to ask “where would you like me to park your free Ferrari Mr Haenow?” but no one has said it yet.
Listen and stream ‘Alive’ below:
Follow Ben on his Facebook, Twitter, and SoundCloud accounts.
