Olly E is an Alternative Rock singer-songwriter from Leicestershire, UK. As an outsider, missing a sense of belonging has fuelled a fire within Olly E as is reflected in lyrics, when thoughts become words on the page. Seeking solace in songwriting, he aims to give hope through his music to those who feel lost or alone. 'Connections' is written about the need to come together and forget our differences in order to create a better world. We can be brought up to hate through a need to fit in when deep down we’re wired to get along. The message that kindness forms the path forward whereas division leads to ruin displays the tracks vision to unite in order to save humanity from self-destruction.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
Hey Olly E, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?
It all started with Guitar lessons at school which graduated to taking them privately. When I was 12 I played my first show opening a battle of the bands competition as a soloist playing my own version of American idiot. I’ve been writing my own songs ever since.
What is your creative process like?
I usually start with a guitar riff then I’ll get the vocal phrasing or melody in my head until I begin forming sentences which depict the theme the song could be heading in.
Your latest song is 'Connections'. Can you tell us more about the making of it and if there were any unusual things happening during the process?
I record demos of the songs at home which get sent to an external producer as I believe it’s good to have someone else’s take on your track. I first came up with the intro riff and the track developed from there. It’s the first song I use Falsetto vocals in the chorus so it was interesting adding those!
What was the most difficult challenge you faced?
Writing lyrics to rhyme and also carry meaning is tough; trying to find the right words to describe what you want to portray
What is the biggest mistake you have made within your career to this point?
Possibly trying to get out there as a live solo artist rather than exploring with a band from the start which I’m now doing. I feel a band is the way to be taken seriously and book better shows.
How do you know when a work is finished?
I have to reach a point where I enjoy the track enough without adding anything else. It can be easy to keep fine-tuning a track when it just overcomplicates it. I’ve learnt to keep it simple.
What are your long term goals?
I’d like to establish Olly E as a touring artist with the backing of a booking agent and record label.
Do you have a mentor or coach?
I currently have a manager to help expand my reach and hopefully lead me towards getting signed.
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
I have a sad song with anti-suicidal lyrics called For You and once at a show a woman came up to me crying and hugged me. That was very touching.
Where is the best place in the world you’ve ever been to?
Malta. I’m quarter Maltese and have been visiting all of my life. It’s so rich in history and is such a beautiful island.