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Interview - Charlie Turner

Melodrift Team

Meet Charlie Turner, a rising talent in the indie music scene whose journey through guitar lessons, teenage practice sessions, and life-changing collaborations has shaped a distinctive sound. From his early days jamming in bands to crafting music in his bedroom, Charlie's artistry draws from a range of influences like Mario Camarena, Yussef Dayes, and even the Arctic Monkeys. In this interview, we dive into the life and creative process of a musician who turns personal experiences into lyrical ambiguity, celebrates the highs and lows of performing, and dreams of connecting with audiences worldwide. Welcome to MeloDrift, where we get to know the artist behind the music.


Welcome to MeloDrift. Can you tell us a little bit about your musical background?


I started guitar lessons when I was about 8, but never really practiced until a friend of mine, who was much better than me, brought me into his band. He ended up teaching me a lot. We planned on going to uni together, but he ended up down the classical route and orchestrates in Hollywood now, I think. I studied in Guildford and that’s where I started my first project. That lasted through my moving to London and was killed by COVID-19, but that meant I was able to move onto the stuff I’m releasing now.


If your life had a theme song, what would it be?


Probably something I liked when I was 15.


Who or what have been the most impactful influences on your musical style and sound?


When I actually properly dedicated my time to practicing as a teenager most of my time was spent learning Chon songs. I love Mario Camarena; if I could play like him I would have no struggles. My old friend and flatmate Conor also made a big impact on me with his approach to writing. We spent a lot of time playing together or listening to each other practice in the next room. There are a lot of artists I like who I maybe don’t really sound like, but two other ones that mix well into what I do might be Yussef Days and Arctic Monkeys.


How do your life experiences shape your songwriting, and what emotions or ideas do you hope listeners connect with in your music?


People I used to know who I don’t anymore, the way I navigate the value of my past and present relationships and things that bother me are what I tend to write about. But I wouldn't want things to come across as obvious. I’m a big fan of ambiguity, lyrically. I’d prefer not to impose anything on anyone listening.


Each phase of music-making—writing, recording, rehearsing, and performing—has its own unique rewards. Could you share a memorable moment from each stage?


Writing: Mrs Other started as a beat. I wrote the initial guitar idea in order to have something to play at jams. It had a good reception so I made something more out of it.


Recording: I record everything in my room, except for drums, which my drummer sends me stems from his room. Most of the process ends up as a blur and so the following isn’t really a moment, but I do remember recording over the summer and having to set up my laptop so that it wouldn’t blow up in the heat: touching no flat surfaces, fans blowing icy air, curtains closed. Was a bit scary.

 

Rehearsing: I’ve realised that rehearsing on the day of a gig, particularly when you haven’t played for months, is not always the best idea. Leaving the studio for the George Tavern last year, for a gig you yourself have put on, feeling as though the set needs at least 3 more hours, is not a good feeling.


Performing: The best gig I’ve played wasn’t the biggest. We played at LUNA last summer. The weather was gorgeous so the French doors were open and the audience spilled into the street. Great crowd, best feeling.


Is there a song of yours that holds particular personal significance? We’d love to know more about the story or the inspiration behind it.


There is a song that I wrote during I spent in Canada with a very good friend. We both worked in a summer camp and ended up playing duets during camp fires, usually covers, but this was our first original and my first proper song. We played it a few times. I haven’t seen him for a long time because he lives in New Zealand now, but the song’s there to remember that period.


If you could swap lives with any musician for a day, who would it be and what would you do?


I would probably swap with Parker Canon from The Story So Far. I don't think I’ve been to gigs with atmospheres anything like that scene, so to play in front of a crowd like theirs would be sick. He also lives in Cali so would probably just be a nice place to hang, wherever he is.


What’s a guilty pleasure song you secretly love but might surprise your fans?


Katy Perry - T.G.I.F.


Looking ahead, what are some goals or dreams you have for your music and career?


I want to be able to play regularly with groups of people who are really keen on the music. Playing venues like Jazz Cafe or Village Underground would be wicked. And having any excuse to go abroad to play would be so cool. Especially if it was really far away. And I’d like to release at least one album to moderate success.


Finally, is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers before we close?


Thanks for taking the time to read about someone you’ve probably never heard of. Hope you like the music.


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