Interviews: Danny Beardsley

In this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Alternative Rock artist Danny Beardsley from the UK. Check out the interview and follow him on his FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the project?

In between the music I was making with my bands, I began writing the songs for this album a few years back. I was never really sure what would come of it but eventually, I decided to release the songs properly. It has been an ambition of mine for many years to push myself creatively and emotionally enough to produce a sincere solo album. Believable catchy songs were my aim, and I am very happy I had the courage to finally get it done. Along the way, I’ve had so much encouragement and support from my friends and family without which I’m not sure I would have been brave enough to release it.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

This genre felt like a natural direction for me whilst writing the material. My musical tastes are extremely diverse but the creative process develops organically and forged its own path. I love melody, groove, and catchy choruses but I also love guitar acrobatics. Balancing these aspects has been a lot of fun. 

3. What are your favorite bands?

Queen, Big Wreck, Incubus.

4. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Listening to others, life experiences, and the guitar. I use the guitar as the main tool to develop songs. Lyrically, I am mostly influenced by my own feelings, hopes, and fears. 6. Where was your last gig? I played many shows with my current band The Parallax Method but I have yet to do a “solo” show.

5. Where would you like to play?

I love playing festivals because of the diverse audience. So many different bands from many genres help create an exciting mixture of musical tastes. So all the usual festivals really, Download Festival, Glastonbury, Leeds & Reading, yNot Festival, MacmillanFest. The list goes on.

6. Who would you like to support?

Big Wreck, Simon McBride, Eric Johnson, Myles Kennedy to name a few.

7. Who not?

I’m happy to support anyone!

8. Any of you has ever suffered from stage fright? Any tip for beginners on how to beat that?

I still get nervous now. Keeps me on my toes though. I’d recommend focusing on breathing, sounds simple but it helps a lot. The obvious thing is to keep performing live and don’t be afraid of mistakes. The audience is there to have a good time and share the music.

9. What bands have inspired you the most?

Queen and Brian May in particular from a melodic angle. Guitar technique has been heavily influenced by Eric Johnson and Guthrie Govan. Vocally I listen to a lot of American & Canadian rock singers which I have been told is reflected in my singing. Sometimes it confuses people to hear that I’m English.

10. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

Not asked but with my band Emperor Chung, we’d played a show that was free entry to the audience and after the show, a guy insisted on giving us 20 quid because he enjoyed the show so much. That was very weird!

11. What do you think of your fans?

I could not be any more grateful to anyone who considers themselves a fan of my music. Paying time and attention is the most precious thing someone can give and that’s what I am presented with when sharing music or performing. Thank you to everyone who supports my musical endeavors.

12. What do you think of our site?

I’ve been a fan of your site for a long time. You have always been very supportive of my bands. Thank you for that and for giving unknown artists a great platform.

13. Something to add?

Life is short so if you’re dreaming of pursuing or achieving a goal, just go for it!