Iwan Rheon

Introducing Iwan Rheon, easily recognisable now you see him as the actor behind Simon from cult hit tv show Misfits. But did you know that his love first and foremost is music?

Winner of an Olivier Award no less, Iwan is no stranger to stage, screen and the soundwaves. So let us be the ones to introduce you to a whole new side to the mysterious welsh triple-threat…

You are more widely known for your acting, but would you ever consider letting that take a back seat to develop your career in music?

I’m going with the flow really. At the moment the acting is dominant, but who knows in the future.

What first inspired you to start writing songs?

I’ve always written since I first picked up a guitar. It was often about heartbreak and stuff like that, it’s a good way to vent.

How would you describe your sound to those who haven’t heard you play before?

I guess the last EP would have to be described as acoustic. I wanted to keep it simple and rough without too much production.

With your EP being entitled ‘Tongue Tied’, Have you ever been tongue-tied meeting a fellow musician?

I met Mick Jones and was a bit blown away. I was also unable to speak when Noel Gallagher walked past me in Soho once…probably a good thing!

Who have been your main influences?

Radiohead have been a huge influence for me, also people like Bob Dylan. He is a living legend.

If you could collaborate with anyone who would it be and why?

I’d love to do something with Radiohead. They’re so innovative. I think I’d learn a lot being around them.

Do you prefer to perform as a solo artist, or as part of a band as you were before?

I really love being in a band. There’s nothing better than playing music with your mates. The problem is having the time to rehearse, so at the moment I have to play on my own.

We know you’re very busy filming Misfits currently and your shows at The Old Bedford have proven sell-outs in the past, what are your plans for when filming finishes?

I’ll need to try and find another job!! The great thing about music is that if I’m not working as an actor, I can then concentrate on the music. I want to write and record more. I’ve just recorded new material with a some musicians which has more of a band feel. I really enjoyed it and it’ll be out soon I hope.

And lastly where do you see yourself, in terms of your music, in five years time?

That’s a good question. I have no idea! I’d like to make an album. I feel I’m still finding my sound and vibe. Hopefully in five years I will have nailed it!

Interview by Jay Julier