Throughout these last few years, Birmingham’s Runrummer has established herself as one of the more vibrant names rising through the ranks. And with plenty of praise for her recent outings, she has now dropped her eagerly-awaited debut album ‘Elevator’.
So with the new LP available now, we joined her in conversation to find out more about her background and influences, as well as where she plans to head next.
–
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?
I grew up in a very musical household and I’ve loved music ever since I can remember. . Neither my mum or dad could play an instrument but they were always blasting the good stuff – mainly 70s and 80s. When I was younger I used to write poems, and those naturally turned into song lyrics when I got my first guitar around age 12. Then as I got older I was introduced to the world of electronic music and started working as a topline writer for house DJs which was really game changing for me. It was my first taste of how music could become a career not just a hobby and I think my music now is a combination of those two worlds – the indie and the electronic.
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound?
David Bowie and Kate Bush hands down. I think the way Kate Bush in particular approaches her music is very inspirational, not only as a songwriter but also a producer. She was never afraid to push boundaries and experiment with new sounds, and the way she uses her voice as an instrumental is very exciting. She is one of my biggest idols of all time and has definitely influenced my debut album, if not every song I’ve ever written.
Was there a specific moment or experience that made you decide to pursue music seriously?
When I first moved to London in 2016 and got a 9-5 job it made me so miserable. That’s when I knew I had to have a serious creative outlet to get away from that. Music was my way out.
Can you walk us through your typical songwriting process?
Usually it will start with a melody in my head and I will try to capture that on my phone recorder immediately wherever I am – at the supermarket, on the tube, up a mountain (I have recorded in some pretty weird places). Then I will keep listening to that melody and developing it over a week or two. If it’s a good song then the lyrics will usually flow quite naturally. Then I get on Logic and create a rough demo which I would send to my co-producer Ed and we will develop it up together from there in his home studio.
How do you find inspiration for your music and lyrics?
From everyday life – people, places and memories. I often find sitting on the top deck of a double decker bus to be one of the most inspirational places to sit and write.
What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from your music?
For me music is a form of escapism. I would love for listeners to hear my music and feel transported to another place in some way.
What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist in the music industry?
Funding has been the biggest challenge. Growing your artist project is so expensive, from running ads campaigns to radio campaigns to PR campaigns, not to mention the studio costs. I did manage to get some funding from the PRS Foundation which was a god send, but also a drop in the ocean.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your musical journey so far?
Finally having the debut album out in the world is a real pinch me moment.
How do you stay true to yourself and your artistry in a constantly evolving industry?
Follow your gut and let the music come from the heart.
What can fans expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming projects or tours?
Possibly a Christmas song on the cards!
Where do you see yourself and your music career in the next five years?
I would honestly just love to make it to a stage at Glastonbury…still waiting for that call…
–
Listen to Runrummer’s debut album ‘Elevator’ below.
