Sam Fender: The Northern Gem

Sam Fender, the Geordie lad making a well deserved breakthrough in to this ever growing industry. With his northern charm and thought provoking lyrics that shine light on not only political issues, but also fake news and even sexual harassment. He is definitely one to look out for in 2019.

If you asked me Ellie, who have you been listening to on repeat recently? My answer would simply be, Sam Fender. And I mean on repeat. I stumbled across this guy by accident, whilst flicking through the channels on a Tuesday evening. I found myself watching BBC One, Jools Holland and there he was, this down to earth guy with his guitar... and it was decent. I was instantly relieved to find a new sound, Jools Holland had exposed a little hidden gem once again.  I hopped on to Spotify and fell in love with his sound and his vintage, rough edge feel. It was refreshing for me after listening to a similar type of pop/rock music over and over, finally something new and alternative, and good.

The hit track Dead Boys really demonstrates Sams undeniable talent. With a heavy guitar and strong raspy vocals, he really knows how to write some good music. This track revolves around the issue of male suicide, which Sam himself has openly stated is somewhat a personal subject. What I love about this is that, this is something singer-songwriters rarely touch on these days. You're more likely to hear another love song or a lousy, repetitive pop tune. The fact that this sort of music isn't as popular as other types kind of baffles me. Especially when this is music about the world we are living in; Male suicide rates are higher than ever, the country is in political turmoil and there is fake news all around us. As a fan and a lover of music, I can really appreciate the fact that he is using his voice in a positive way, to try and have some impact and open peoples eyes. 

Following up with this idea of highlighting present day issues within society, the video for his most recent single Play God was released on 22 January. It is beautifully shot, with Fender himself right at the forefront of the video, playing a variety of characters with scenes that portray the injustices of today's world. The somber black and white theme feeds the melancholy sound. Watch below:

Its not all serious though... his song Millennial is really just a p**s take of this generation, its witty and ironic, "I'm a millennial/I'm young and dumb." It's not only Fender's wit and tongue in cheek attitude but also his pure talent and individual sound that just adds to his charisma. This especially throughout his EP Dead Boys, the constant use of strong guitar and haunting lyrics are what really draws you in.

Sam Fender is finally gaining the recognition he deserves and this makes me so happy, knowing that real artists who make real music are getting their deserved air time. Having just received the Brits Critics choice award and announced his first UK headline tour (which has sold out might I add), he is definitely on the way up.

This is just a brief insight into why I am loving Fender and his sound at the moment. I think it is important that I share it with you all so you go and check him out, and maybe have your eyes opened a little (but not in a preachy way, of course.) He is just a little different to the rest of them, as well as creating such sweet sounding, gritty music.