I'm fortunate enough to teach a number of students who have real promise in a variety of disciplines, ranging through pop, singer/songwriter and musical theatre ... even a couple who haven't quite decided yet, but could go in any one of these directions. However, something that was present in most of them when they first started was 'the mimic'. In this article, I share my top 3 tips on how to stop doing this and start finding your own sound.

As I watch news of the snap general election, the dismantling of the NHS before our very eyes, Trump, Brexit (don't mention Brexit!!); I can't help but wonder if the young songwriting community are watching and wondering what is to become of us, picking up their note pads and furiously writing about it all. 

This week I take to the stage myself, as I play 'Doralee' (a.k.a Dolly Parton) in '9 to 5 the Musical' and I thought it would be useful to share some of my rituals, that enable me to stay energised and in full voice. 

My job often takes me on the most rewarding journeys and this past week has been no exception, as I worked with a group of Young People at a Songwriting LAB organised by SOSLAM and METAL Southend.