With over 800 million global streams and huge radio hits in various major European markets already under his belt, Blackpool-born musician Tom Gregory’s star is clearly on the ascent.
He spent most of last year working with writers and producers including Jamie Scott (One Direction, Justin Bieber), David Hodges (Ed Sheeran), and Oak (Demi Lovato, Lizzo, Alessia Cara), and is gunning for glory with new single ‘Never Look Back’.
We caught up with him for a chat to learn more about his influences, likes and dislikes.
1. What’s the music that you listened to growing up, that you still listen to today?
I really loved bands like Caine, Travis and was especially fond of The Script. I was a band lad!
2. In three words, describe the minute before you walk on stage.
Chaos, calm, euphoria.
3. How do you wind down after a gig?
I’ve been trying that for many years! But honestly, just phoning home, going straight to my hotel room or tour bus, anything that feels remotely normal!
4. What’s the one song (by another artist) you wish you’d written or recorded first?
‘Somewhere Only We Know’ by Keane. Such a special record from top to bottom that has still stood the test of time - I really wish it was mine!
5. What is your pet peeve?
When I can hear people eating. Nothing rattles me more!
6. Name one record, one book and one film that everyone should hear / read / see.
‘Definitely Maybe’, ‘Sapiens’ by Yuval Noah Harari, ‘The Green Mile’.
7. Pick the director and lead actor(s) for a biopic about your life.
Would have to be Eddie Redmayne because he’s far better looking, directed by Danny Boyle.
8. You’re ordering take-away, what do you get?
It's got to be the classic, it's a Chinese takeaway – Salt-N-Pepa chips, curry sauce, and a portion of crispy shredded beef. Bosh.
9. Describe your perfect day off.
Laid on the sofa with my dog, playing Fifa with the lads back home.
10. Tell us, in one sentence, why we should come to your next gig (whenever it may be.)
I’ve heard coming to my gigs brings inordinate amounts of good luck….
BONUS QUESTION: Recommend a podcast and tell us why we should subscribe to it.
Elton John’s Rocket Hour podcast. Hearing Elton and how enthusiastic he still is is absolute gold and super inspiring. I hope he invites me on, one day!
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'Never Look Back' is out now.