Today, we have the pleasure of diving into the captivating world of Ross Harding, a powerhouse in the realm of rock and blues.
With a knack for blending soul-stirring melodies and electrifying performances, Ross Harding is set to enchant us with insights into his latest single and much more. Let’s delve into the depths of his musical journey and discover what makes his sound truly unique.
Let’s start by talking about your new single and video, ‘A Thousand Snakes.’ Given your history of blending blues, rock, and soulful melodies, this is a powerful addition to your discography. Can you delve into the thematic elements and musical influences that inspired this track and its accompanying video?
“The core of the song was inspired by the old delta blues. Although this version of “A Thousand Snakes” didn’t stay on that traditional kind of presentation, what it did was make use of that essence and then build around it. The kind of dark, emotive, hypnotic nature of the blues, especially the old, recorded blues, is something I take inspiration from, this song being no exception of course.”
“There will be another version of the song following this up that stayed along that more delta blues sound. In the video I was originally going for something based on the “snake” themes, but I ended with a visual representation of where I am at musically now, as well as a representation of the journey I am on with my travels to the UK and so forth.”
“That is, a place in-between hard rock and blues rock, and a more eclectic, but stripped down bluesy acoustic realm. I’m going to be releasing music of that nature later in the year.”
Your recent decision to relocate to the UK marks a significant turning point in your career. Considering the UK’s illustrious musical history and diverse cultural landscape, how do you anticipate this move influencing your artistic evolution? Are there specific aspects of British culture, the music scene, or the creative milieu that you’re particularly excited to explore or integrate into your musical identity?
“I’ve always dreamt of immersing myself in the music scene of the UK, especially England and London. I think the way you phrased the question kind of illuminates what has motivated this move. The UK is such a massive part of music globally and has been an immeasurable influence on the music of the world.”
“Many of my favourite, and most influential artists are from the UK, like Black Sabbath & Led Zeppelin, whose impact on the world is just unfathomable. I can’t say exactly how the UK will change me creatively, just that I know it undoubtedly will. At this point I am just so excited and grateful to become a part of that culture.”
Having embarked on extensive tours across South Africa with various bands since the inception of your musical journey, you’ve undoubtedly accumulated a wealth of experiences on stage. Could you share some of the most memorable moments or performances from your time touring in South Africa, and how do you believe these experiences have contributed to shaping you as an artist?
“Doing this for a decade or so has given me some experiences, on stage and off. There are so many, all of which I think have affected me as an artist in some way. There are memories that come to mind that I can share. I was in a Southern rock band some years ago, and we went out in the middle of winter to do a performance that was quite a way from where we all lived. I was sick as well.”
“Sleeping in the van and trying to get over a fever with painkillers and Jack Daniel’s (I still drank back then). We arrived at the gig, an outdoor event, and there were no people there. The small audience that had been there earlier had left before our late set, as it was freezing out. We played the show anyway. Literally, the only people there were one or two bar staff and security, and the sound engineer.”
“That has happened more than I care to admit. This industry can really be soul-crushing at times. Somehow the show just felt awesome anyway. It told me something about my love for music. I’ve kept that mindset. Juxtapose that scenario with later performances to 5000+ people at festivals, or small but packed-out clubs, and then it just reminds me why I do what I do. It’s a calling, a passion, and a love before anything else.”
Furthermore, as you prepare to transition to the UK and continue performing shows post-immigration, how do you anticipate these past touring experiences influencing your approach to live performances and audience engagement in a new cultural context?
“What I have learnt is that no show is the same. Audiences are made of individual people, and that means an ever-changing entity at every show. For me, the best way to translate and share what I do, is to do it with everything I’ve got.
I take the live environment seriously. I do my best to ensure the music I am sharing is performed the best that I can, and then use my experience of hundreds of shows to guide me with the crowd. That’s served me well, and I will continue to build on that. I am serving the audience in the end, by performing music. Although I am on the stage, playing my music, I am still in service of the people.”
Your music is known for its dynamic fusion of blues, rock, and soulful elements, creating a signature sound that resonates deeply with audiences. Could you elaborate on your approach to integrating these diverse musical influences into your compositions?
“On the one hand, I know what I like and what I want to hear. The blues influence in my music is quite deliberate. It’s kind of like a canvas or setting that I approach music creation from. On the other hand, I allow myself to go into an unfiltered creative space to search for originality, lyrical ideas, or things that come from perhaps an other-worldly place of creativity.”
“That creative state isn’t always easy to get into, and isn’t always available, but I find it can occur at the most random times, and for varied lengths. It’s important to be mindful of that state of mind, and to utilise it when it presents itself.”
How do you navigate the intricate balance between honouring the traditions of blues and rock while infusing your own unique style and sonic identity?
“Honestly, that changes for me as my musical and artistic journey unfolds. The way I would explain that is by using your question to answer itself. I would say a part of my “mission statement” as an artist is to honour the blues, while being a unique and original artist.”
Additionally, drawing from your extensive experience as a performer and songwriter, how has your understanding of these genres evolved over time, and how does it inform your creative process when crafting new music?
“I’ve said before that I don’t want to reinvent the wheel with my music. I am a rock & roll musician. I love rock music. That’s what I do. I’ve never been interested in creating a new thing, a new genre, pushing that envelope. I do, however, want to push myself to write better songs and create the best art I can within what I do and what I love. My tastes and influences are elements that inform how I approach writing, with many other elements.”
Your previous releases, such as ‘Rest & Resurrection’ and ‘Chapter II,’ have been well-received. How do you think your sound has evolved since then?
“The next year will see me releasing music that’s taken a different approach. I have heavy bluesy rock songs, as well as more acoustic blues \ atmospheric songs on the release schedule for 2024. As I improve as an artist, live and in the studio, I can more articulately express myself, and I think that’s an element that can be seen in my more recent music.”
Considering your extensive experience performing both solo, as well as in bands across diverse genres, how do you anticipate your music resonating with international listeners, and what are your aspirations for fostering a deeper connection with these audiences through your performances?
“The funny thing is, because of the internet and all the DSP’s etc, I can see where my music is being listened to. A large portion, most listeners in fact, are from the UK & Europe. I’ve never considered myself “South African” when it comes to writing music.”
“Of course, we all have backgrounds and the places where we come from, but as an artist I can’t say that’s ever really influenced how I write music. At least not consciously. My music is written to be shared, and I will do that via all the platforms I need to. The live environment is still my favourite stage, and I know audiences will resonate so long as I give it all I’ve got and serve the people.”
We extend our heartfelt gratitude for sharing your insights and experiences with us Ross. Your passion for music and commitment to your craft are truly inspiring. As you embark on this new and exciting chapter in the UK, may the journey ahead be filled with boundless opportunities for growth, creativity, and fulfilment.
You can stream / download “A Thousand Snakes” HERE.
More info about Ross Harding
Ross Harding initiated his musical career in 2017 by founding the Blues Rock band Black Harbour Blues. Over the years, he garnered local and international recognition through captivating performances, extensive tours, and acclaimed recordings.
Highlights of his career include headlining prestigious festivals like Drakensberg’s White Mountain Festival and sharing the stage with renowned acts such as Biffy Clyro and Trivium. In 2018, he co-hosted a sold-out House of Blues show featuring top South African Blues musicians.
Ross Harding gained global industry recognition with his debut EP Rest & Resurrection in 2022 and followed up with Chapter II the same year, solidifying his position in the music scene. His Maxi Single ‘Everything Is Black’ in 2023 further enhanced his reputation.
In January 2024, Ross Harding announced his relocation to the UK, coinciding with his business’s move to London, aiming to continue his journey as a performing artist while fostering connections between South Africa and Europe.
After concluding his South African tour, Ross Harding is scheduled to continue his musical journey in the UK with upcoming shows planned in Glasgow and Brighton in April, followed by more shows across the UK from May onwards.
Watch this space for updates in the Interviews category on SA Music Zone.
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