Welcome Charles, thanks for talking to us.
To start off, could you tell us something fun/interesting/weird about yourself that we can’t find from a Google search?
I eat chicken wings with a knife and fork and also eat mayonnaise on pretty much every meal (apart from cereal, that would be worrying).
Your artist name is the same as your real name, had you ever considered any other monikers?
You now what I had thought about it once. In the early years of making music it was either going to be Charles or Sanchia. I know that’s random, but let me explain… it’s actually my sisters name and I have never heard anyone else called that. The name is major and I love my sister so thought it could work. But in the end to avoid confusion I went with Charles.
What major influences have gone into your sound recently?
There has been a lot of new Neo Soul on scene recently which definitely influenced me with my sound. SAULT’S album ‘5’ was a real ear opener of creating amazing music. Other influences have been the likes of Amber Simone, Sophie Faith, Anderson Paak, and of course NAO.
Did you always know that music was your bag, or did you try out other careers and vocations first?
I’ve always been a little performer. Since a young kid I would put on shows for my family and make up dance routines. So that then led to training professionally at a musical theatre college and ended up being a singer in The Lion King on the West End. Looking back it was a great experience and taught me a lot.
From your press pics and socials you seem like quite a dapper dude, is fashion/ style something that’s important to you? If so, why?
Yeah for me it’s hugely important, It’s what gets me up in the morning. Fashion is another way I get to express myself without speaking. It gives me a level of confidence to be able to navigate through this thing called life. There is nothing I love more than getting glammed up to head down to the shops purely to get some milk.
Would you ever consider a crossover into the fashion arena later on in life like other musicians have? If so, what would you like to design?
Absof*ckinglutely! I already have a business plan in motion for an upcoming hat project I want to create. I’m obsessed with hats so a collab with myself would be major!
What’s been the biggest lesson you’ve learned as an artist so far?
Mines pretty cheesy lol. But it has to be perseverance. I was always aware that this path might take it’s time and at points it’s going to get tough. But I always assumed it would be the writing blocks or lack of music that would be hard. Turns out waking up every day and convincing yourself you are enough and that you can do this is has been the most challenging. Over the last few years I’ve come to learn that perseverance is key. Remind yourself on the daily of the boss b*tch you know you are.
What advice would you offer to other upcoming artists making their way into the scene?
Do whatever you want, sing whatever you want and don’t be a prick. Nah but for real I think my other bit of advice would be to be kind to yourself. Some days you may be mad inspired and make incredible music. Other days you might not want to get out of bed and that’s cool. Take your time and look after yourself, the magic will come regardless.
If you could change three things about the music industry, what would they be?
- Record deals that actually benefit the artist.
- More in house development with emerging artists.
- Less chat, more doing.
If you could collab with any 3 artists alive or dead, who would they be and why?
Prince for sure. I have listened to him and his music since I was young and have always been super mesmerised by his creativity and art. I would have loved to have seen my mums face also.
Nao has been a huge inspiration musically. She was the reason I started to pursue this dream in the first place, so a collab moment would be full circle.
Sade would be my final pick. Solely because I’d really enjoy singing with her.
What are your plans for the rest of the year, musically or otherwise?
My next plans are to just focus on making more music. It’s a good time to just get your head down and work on some new material so going to make the most of it.
Any top tips for getting through this difficult time?
‘Four in a bed’ has saved my soul. I suggest giving it a watch if you are feeling sh*t.
Finally, which artists/songs/playlists have you been feeling recently?
PURPLE MELON 