M: Let's start with a bit of a biography about yourself. Where are you from, and how did your musical journey come about? M: I found your channel on YouTube purely by coincident, and I was immediately captivated by your music and persona. How and when did you know YouTube would be the platform to reach your audience?
A: I was born in Scotland. Was raised there for the first 7 - ish years of my life but moved around Britain for most of my childhood until I moved back recently.
I first picked up the guitar when I was 10. It was kind of by accident (laughed). It wasn't something I fully intended to do. I ended up learning the guitar by ear, and since, I have been writing songs and singing before I even knew it. I have a YouTube channel where I post content, covers and original songs under the name Arthur Black.
A: I came up with my channel on a whim as a way to connect with people. I wasn't around a lot of peers my age after dropping out of primary school. I knew I adored music and wanted it to be a serious profession but didn't truly know where and how to start.
I posted my first original song in 2017 when I was 12 years old but didn't get much of a response. I continued creating content for a few years, nothing music-related, just silly videos to make up for the lack of motivation with my music. I'd say 2020 is the first year I started really taking it seriously and realized it was the only thing I wanted to do. I kind of just had tunnel vision and only wanted to focus on music. So, to answer your question in short, I'd say it took me around 2 years to grow my channel to where it is now.
M: Your strumming style, I'd say there is a resemblance to Robert Smith's. Especially in the song The Glossary of Podiatry. Who and what would you say have influenced your musical development?
A: Yes, I was obsessed with Robert Smith! You can tell a bit by my personal style (laughed). I grew up without the internet. My introduction to music was around older people and never really what was on the radio. So, I enjoy classics such as The Cure, The Smiths, The Killers, Kate Bush, The Cranberries and Stereophonics!
M: How do you record your music? Can you share with us your songwriting process? M: If your songs go into production, how would they sound like?
A: I record everything at home on my iPad. DIY spirit! (laughed) I use Garage Band and sing to the mic on my iPad. I have only worked with a producer once. However, I feel like the experience did not align with my creative process.
A: Kind of like Irish poetry. It's very important for me to keep my music as it is. I think sometimes production can change it. I don't have drums or any heavy instrument. It's very melancholic, and I want to take you away from anything like what's already in the media.
M: Your channel has quite a following. 151k subscribers M: And how old are you now? M: That is incredible.
A: Yes.
A: I am 16, turning 17 this year!
A: Thank you so much!
M: Are you working on anything now? Through our last email, you mentioned that there is an album? M: How many songs have you written so far in that album? M: You mentioned earlier that it took a while before your channel took off. What is it that drives you to keep creating? M: Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? M: Lastly, any hobbies you want to share with the readers?
A: Yes. It is half a concept album, and another half is something based on my experiences. I'm writing a book, and there is a character in the book that I can vent through. I just think it's interesting how it's all about past experiences that I've broken down to fit in this character. Not just like putting my whole life on the internet.
A: On the top of my head, I think there are 5 songs so far. Two are already released, Patient 58 and The Glossary of Podiatry.
A: Knowing that my art can help inspire others and impact them positively is something that really pushes me forward. I am grateful for the love and support from my fans, and it has been immensely impactful in keeping me going. I use my music to get my head out of the clouds and chew thoughts easier. Writing helps me think clearer and see things from a new perspective whenever I find myself in a situation. I find it is an extremely healthy way to process my feelings.
A: I just really want to keep creating and growing as an artist and as a creative writer. As I've mentioned a few times online, I'm writing a book and would love to produce it and get it heard! Also, delving into the fashion industry and potentially performing arts is something I look forward to!
A: I enjoy creating all forms of art, including painting and sculpting, but mostly music-based. I play a few instruments like piano, bass and acoustic guitar. I also really enjoy creative writing!!
