Interview with music's up-and-coming sensation Ben Howard

Where do you come from?

Ben: I was born in Middlesex, i now live in sunny Falmouth. 

How did music come into your life?

Ben: I'd say it was probably through my mum. I must have spent 8 or 9 of my younger years listening to her singing and playing the guitar, plus there was always music on in the house like Bruce Springstein, Neil Young and John Martin. A lot of great singer songwriters.

Who or what inspires you to write music?

Ben: John Martin. Definately. His music is incredible. I think you are always influenced by so many different types of music but don't always realise. Its amazing how many different artists you listen to but you're not always aware that the music's being absorbed. The countryside is a massive inspiration too. When i first moved from London to the country, it was a really big shift, a nice shift and that's why i sing about it alot. I like to write about the people i meet or those that have made an impact on my life. My parents come up quite a lot, i guess they've taught me a few things! I love the outdoors, i'm not a big fans of trains and lots of people but i am warming to the London ways!

Who is the person you admire the most?

Ben: Gabe Davies, for sure. He's done so much in the surfing world and has achieved some pretty incredible things but still remains as the most genuine and kind person around in the industry.

How would you describe your music?

Ben: I guess it's sort of acoustic ballads with some percussive guitar and gnarly growling thrown in for good measure.

Describe your clothing style.

Ben: Hoodies, jeans & t shirts. Casual as possible.

Dress code for a night out?

Ben: Hoody, jeans and t shirt... (small pause) Maybe a clean hoody, jeans and t shirt!

Describe yourself in 3 words:

Ben: Yeah, umm... (long pause) Introverted, outgoing, keen. That's going to confuse some people!

What's your favourite quote?

Ben: "Green eyes, green like the sea, pity the one that sees them and doesn't know how to swim." I think it's spanish?

What would you do if you didn't sing?

Ben: If i didn't sing i'd probably hum. No, i'd whistle.

You recently supported Xavier Rudd on his European tour, how was it?

Ben: It was amazing. Xavier is such a nice guy and it was nice to get the opportunity to chill out with him when we weren't performing. The crowds were good too, you could hear a pin drop when i was on stage, the respect they had was just incredible.

Plans for the future? Anything else coming up?

Ben: Just to keep doing what i'm doing really. Making music and getting some more gigs through Quiksilver and hopefully play some tunes on the pro surf tour. 

Check out Ben's videos, listen to his tunes and check out new tour dates for 2009 @ www.myspace.com/benjaminjohnhoward

PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Searle / Carve