Getting To Know: Soul 31
From the heart of Manchester's pulsating cultural landscape emerges Soul31, a prodigious talent whose journey from break dancer to soulful singer encapsulates a story of resilience, versatility, and creative evolution. Born from the vibrant and rhythmic streets that fostered his artistic inclinations, Soul31 has navigated his path with a blend of ingenuity and authenticity, transforming his dance moves into soul-stirring melodies. This unique fusion not only marks him as a standout artist but also enriches his performances with an electrifying stage presence that mesmerizes audiences and etches memorable experiences.
Soul31's music, a mirror to his life's highs and lows, resonates with a sincerity that reaches deep into the listener's soul, crafting an immersive auditory journey through his heartfelt lyrics and haunting melodies. As a proud Mancunian, his dedication to his roots and community shines brightly, fueling his passion to uplift emerging talents and contribute to Manchester's flourishing music scene. Endorsed by BBC Introducing Manchester and gaining national attention through BBC Radio 1's Future Pop with Mollie King, Soul31 is not just a local hero but a burgeoning national sensation.
1. Your journey from break dancer to soulful singer is quite unique. Can you share with us the pivotal moments or influences that led to this transition in your artistic expression?
As a dancer i accomplished most of the goals i set out to, but always felt that my artistic journey wasnt quite fulfilled, i was always writing songs and melodies for years before i actually decided to take the plunge and release some music.
2. Growing up in Manchester has clearly had a profound impact on your music and identity as an artist. How do you feel your hometown and its cultural richness have shaped your sound and storytelling?
Growing up in Manchester has deeply influenced my music in a myriad of ways. The city's rich musical heritage, from its iconic bands like The Smiths and Oasis to its thriving underground music scene, has provided me with a diverse tapestry of sounds and inspirations to draw from. The raw energy and grittiness of Manchester's streets have infused my lyrics with a sense of authenticity, while the city's cultural melting pot has exposed me to a wide range of musical styles and influences
3. Your music is often described as a fusion of soulful melodies with elements of your dance background. Could you elaborate on how these two artistic realms intersect in your creative process and performance style?
Being from a dance background i've learned how to listen to music in a different way, i try to feel every instrument and recognise the part each one plays in the make up of a song, doing this allowed me to move and perform outside the realms of the traditional "beat pattern" so i try to use this technique when it comes to making my songs. I try to blend all the instruments and vocals together seamlessly with the end goal being an enjoyable listen for anyone who hears it.
4. As someone deeply rooted in the Manchester music scene, how important is it for you to give back and support emerging local talent? Can you share any initiatives or projects you're involved in to nurture the next generation of artists?
I'm still actively involved in the dance scene and I attend local events and festivals aswell occasionally hosting and judging battles. With regards to music, you can find me regularly attending gigs and shows to support local artists, performing at open mic nights and obviously performing myself. I regularly mentor a few younger musicians in the local area and offer them songwriting tips.
With my day job working in the care system, i often take a mobile recording studio set up to work with me to record the teens and young adults that are under my supervision as ive found that Music is a great way to connect with them. It also gives them an outlet and something to focus their energy on which might otherwise be spent doing something negative.
5. Being recognized by BBC Introducing Manchester and gaining national exposure on BBC Radio 1 Future Pop is a significant achievement. How has this recognition impacted your career and artistic journey, and what do you hope to achieve with this newfound platform?
Im very grateful for all of the support ive received locally from not only BBC Introducing but from the number of other radio stations, press outlets, industry people and my other artistic peers. National exposure is obviously been a dream of mine for as long as ive been making music so for Mollie King and her team at BBC Radio 1 to recognise my latest track "I.K.Y.K" as being worthy of some airplay on such a prestigious show, it's incredible. Whilst it's still relatively new, It remains to be seen how this might impact my career going forward but it's certainly given me a massive boost in confidence. It's also given some belief to other artists who are making music that they can also achieve these things. It's been a long journey and this is just the beginning. I'm not setting my hopes too high but If i can make music my full time career, thats the end goal!
