- Artist Name: Tommy Atkins
- Hometown: Newcastle, England
What project(s) are you currently working on?
I’ve just released my latest single, Freedom, and I’m gradually recording my debut album remotely with my producer in Nashville. It will feature my international hits Wild in the Wind and Cinderella’s Had a Drink and I’m very excited about the musicians I have on this record. I was supposed to be embarking on my first U.K. tour this summer, but the restrictions relating to COVID-19 have postponed that. I’m using the time I’ve gained back to promote this new single and write with some new artists and songwriters. Songwriting is my passion, so that’s been good for the soul.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?
I’ve been writing songs since I was 16, but for years I had no idea that people who aren’t mega-famous could make a living from music. Where I’m from, you’re either a club singer who sings cover songs or you’re mega-famous on TV. I didn’t know anybody in the middle of those two extremes. That was until I saw my first writer’s round in London when I was probably 21 years old. Seeing people like Bob DiPiero and Brett James sing hits they’d written for other people was so insanely cool. At that point I’d been writing songs for 5 years, so seeing that show gave me the confidence to branch out into the music industry as a songwriter. 8 years later and here we are, I’ve began a recording career of my own!
If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?
I’ve worked all kinds of jobs to pay the bills alongside music. I’ve worked in supermarkets, call centres, offices; dental surgeries, restaurants, bars… you name it. I probably enjoyed waiting and bartending the best, so maybe I’d do that. I’d love to run a roadside diner someday.
What is your favorite downtime activity?
Going for walks in our national parks or down to the beach. I just love getting away from people and out into nature!
Who is your biggest celebrity crush?
My husband always rinses me for this one… it’s Ty Burrell from Modern Family… and I can’t explain it!
Who is your favorite sports team(s)?
My favourite soccer team growing up was Sunderland AFC… the rival team to my hometown! Man, the kids in my class did not like me for that!
What is the last movie that you watched?
Coco, and it’s amazing. The world Pixar created for that film was so vast and real and musical. It’s just beautiful.
What is the last album you listened to?
Whitney Rose, We Still Go to Rodeos. I love this new sound of hers. I’d Rather Be Alone is the standout track for me.
If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Fly by the Dixie Chicks. The variety of songs is just superb and it’s one of the first country albums I fell in love with.
What is the greatest country song of all time?
I Will Always Love You by Dolly Parton. I think we all aspire to write a song as impactful and lasting as this one.
What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?
Glasgow, Scotland. Love the people, love the city. They don’t need a few drinks in them to have a good time, they’re ready from the get-go!
What is your favorite meal?
Fried chicken! I was vegetarian for a number of years, so I feel like I’m making up for lost time!
Who is your dream duet partner?
Taylor Swift. I know she’s over on the pop side now, but I think she’s one of the greatest songwriters of all time. She’s a master communicator. I would love to write and sing with her.
Who would you like to go on tour with?
I would love to tour with one of my heroes, like Shania or the Dixie Chicks.
What is your ultimate career goal(s)?
To make great country music that pushes the boundaries a little and stands the test of time. If that’s as an artist or as a songwriter, I don’t mind. So long as the songs are great.