Vocals I Songwriting I Topline

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: My last album was written with Tommy Evans from Submotion orchestra. I absolutely loved working with Tommy. He’s such a lovely, modest guy and the most incredible musician. The album has been released by audio network and is now used on many tv shows around the world. One song was also used in a lad bible video that went viral. I love writing for sync!

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I am currently releasing a song a month. Search Sula Mae in Spotify to hear my latest release.

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: Yes, Ruth Royall

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Hmmmm digital! I know it’s controversial but digital has given me so many tools at my fingertips I never would have had in an analog world! Maybe when I’m rich and famous and have more toys my answer would be different!

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: That we will make a song we both enjoy listening to!

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I love collaborating! I’ve written songs that would never have been written had someone not contacted me from the other side of the world. I would never have even spoken to that person without music, it’s truly amazing to be able to create magic with people all over the world who I’ve never met!

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: I often get asked how many times they can send a song back with feedback to be adjusted. I would prefer you to be happy with the song, and will ask for feedback after sending the topline without harmonies. I’m happy to adjust my work within reason (please don’t take the piss!)

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: That I’m ‘just a singer’. There is also a lot of artistry, musicianship and production involved.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: I ask for three songs to reference what sound they’re going for. I also ask to be paid half the fee before I get started, so no one wastes any time.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: Communication is key! It’s useful to get an idea of what you’re looking for but also it’s important for you to trust me with your song.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: Well I’m guessing there would be no electricity… so my ukulele, notebook, pen, guitar and a big straw for helping with vocal warmups (honestly it’s the best! I can explain it to you if you want to know the best vocal warmup in the universe!)

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: Now that would be telling! Let’s just say a very long time 😅😂

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Jazzy soulful vocals with ethereal harmonies

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: I would love to write with Maribou State. Holly Walker’s vocals on “Midas” are 🫶

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Less is often more. Don’t lose the groove for the sake of complexity!

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: Oooo difficult question! Since releasing my jazz vocals sample pack with samplephonics I’ve written with all genres of production, from drum and bass to rock, folk, pop, EDM, house, electro-swing, reggae. I particularly like working on music with a strong groove and clear structure.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: I have an unusual and distinctive vocal tone.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I have a good ear for melody and writing lyrics that stay in your head. My latest release “Horizon” was played on bbc introducing as their ear worm of the week.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: If someone has asked me to write a topline, I’ll listen to their song a few times without trying to write. This helps give me an idea of the energy and tone their going for. I’ll also listen to any references (which are super helpful, but not too many please- be specific). Then I’ll listen in my headphones while walking to catch a melody, and sometimes lyrics will come this way too. I’ll start by recording ideas into my phone and keep singing them until they’re catchy enough for me to sing without looking at the lyrics and flow well with the music. Once I’m really confident with the song I’ll record the topline a few times, and comp my vocals. Then I’ll add a high and low harmony, and some textural sounds- ad libs, which the producer can use or not.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I use logic, have a vocal booth and record on a very high quality condenser mic. I also have many instruments to hand, including flute, gong, singing bowls and electric piano.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: Ruth Royall is a drum and bass vocalist from Bristol who is absolutely killing it right now! Very inspired by other female vocalists who also have a hand in production.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: I generally write lyrics and melody of the topline vocals, adding harmonies and textures. I can also help with production, songwriting and play flute, piano, guitar and ukulele.