By Alan Dreezer is an Electro-Pop/Singer-Songwriter from Chelmsford Essex UK currently living in Mijas Spain. Alan had always collaborated with other musicians or as part of a band away from his passion for Electro-Pop through his musical journey. These have included touring with Tara 2 a pop duo once supporting 80’s favourites “Brother Beyond” on tour, or playing sold-out shows at High Barn Great Bardfield which was widely regarded as one of the best small venues in the UK with Rock-Pop band ADProject.
In 2017 Alan decided to finally start writing for a solo project and released his first solo album “LONDON E12” in 2018. In spite of the challenges the pandemic has thrown up, Alan dropped 5 singles ahead of the release of his new album “H E A L E D” and was nominated in the Best Solo Artist category at the 2020 EssexPanic Awards.
Join us as we chat with Alan about his inspiration, songwriting process and more…
- So firstly, how would you describe your sound?
To be concise “Thought provoking ElectroPop” however there are many different flavours and influences to my music. On the new album, there are tinges of RnB, Gospel, Synthpop, EDM, 80’s pop, even ambient so I find it really difficult to categorise my music.
- What’s a typical day in the studio like for you?
Well as an independent artist, preparation, before I visit a studio, is vital. I like to take into a session a complete lyric and vocal melody plus some reference tracks for sounds and the general direction I want the song to go in. Then a recording session becomes about fleshing out the chords and layering up the various instruments that suit the vibe and arrangement.
- Do you have to be in a certain mood to write a song?
I used to always turn to writing when I was feeling down or hurt and use that pain or anger to inspire me. For this album, I’ve looked at the more positive emotions too and stories other people have told me in conversation. My next project will be much more from imagination rather than experience but I think I’ll always write “heart on my sleeve” songs as they come to me.
- Who are your 3 biggest musical inspirations?
Well, number 1 by a mile is George Michael. His voice and songwriting inspired me to be an artist in the first place. In my opinion, he was the best songwriter of his generation. My more recent hero’s are James Blake and Lorde. I love everything they do and study their work very closely.
- Who is the best band you’ve ever seen play live?
The best band has to be U2. Fantastic catalogue of songs and their stage show is always incredible. The best concert I’ve ever been to though was Michael Jackson on the “Bad” tour. The atmosphere was spellbinding and what a performer he was.
- What’s the toughest part of the industry for you?
I think standing out in the sea of music that’s being put out daily has to be the most difficult thing independent artists face. I read recently that 23 million songs were uploaded to Spotify last year? And so much of it is really really good. People’s attention spans are getting shorter too so that makes things even harder. Fortunately, I love the process of making music more than anything and I also think success has many levels to it so that is what keeps me doing what I do.
- What’s the most enjoyable part of the industry?
Connecting with people and building relationships is the most satisfying thing music has given me. Almost every relationship I have has its roots somewhere in music and the industry. I feel very lucky in that respect.
– What’s in store for the rest of 2021?
I have just released a new music video for my current single “The Chase”. Then it’s more promo for the album and planning the next 2 single releases which will be out in early 2022.
LISTEN to ‘H E A L E D’:
WATCH the video for ‘The Chase’:
FOLLOW Alan Dreezer: www.alandreezer.com
