After ten years working in the music industry, Sunny Stuart Winter decided to embark on a solo career.
Creating ‘Mention Me’, the Norwich singer-songwriter revealed his debut single ‘What Could Have Been‘ on February 3rd.
Taking influence from bands including Brand New and Death Cab For Cutie through to solo artists Jamie T and Sia, Sunny is currently on a German tour.
As he steps out from behind-the-scenes to the stage, we caught up with Sunny Stuart Winter to find out more about his plans for 2016.
After ten years in the music industry, how does it feel embarking on a solo venture?
It feels liberating. I’ve had the pleasure of being involved with so many great artists and musicians over the years, touring and networking, but to finally have my own honest creative outlet means I can finally express myself fully, get some things off my chest and wholly do things exactly how I want, not only musically, but visually.
Why did you decide to go down this route?
It just felt like the right time for me. I had a traumatic few weeks in September of last year and writing really helped calm me, get my feelings out, get myself out of a rut, get words onto a page you know? I felt like I was finally at a place where I had something to say and to share that others might connect to. If any single thing I’ve written makes just one person happy, or gets just one person out of a rut, then it’s all been worthwhile.
How would you describe your musical style?
I’m being described as ’emo-pop’ which I quite like. I’ve always been an avid writer so I aim to write emotional lyrics that really connect the listener to experiences they’ve had, especially the devastating ones. I guess I’ve drawn on the heart-on-sleeve style that Death Cab For Cutie typifies while hopefully incorporating a memorable pop edge with a slight tinge of misery.
What can we expect from your new single release ‘What Could Have Been’?
Brutal honesty I guess. Reliving those moments throughout life where you just wish someone would take a chance on the situation, regardless of how scared they or you might feel. The frustration of thinking you know the outcome is guaranteed to be positive, but there’s a lack of willingness to get in a potentially vulnerable situation. We’ve all been there…
What are your plans for the rest of 2016?
It’s back in the studio in March to record the follow-up to ‘What Could Have Been’; another double-A side single which will be out sometime in April. I just want to get out and play shows anywhere and everywhere. The beauty of doing this solo is I can take on shows anywhere as long as I can find the time to get there. I love touring, I love meeting new bands and fans, so I’d love to get on the road some more.
Anything else you wish to add?
I’m all about community and conversation so I’d love to hear what people think of the songs. All new tracks will be up every 2 months for free, please share them with friends and family, remix them, do what you got to do. Show me and I’ll share them. And for those who love physical, I’ve got very limited edition CDs available very soon so get in touch.
Keep up-to-date with Sunny:
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Main Image Credit: © Kirstie Thornton