Getting To Know: Simon Howard

Contemporary country-folk artist Simon Howard tells heartfelt stories through his effortlessly passionate vocals. After spending a secluded summer writing in Texas, he returned home to begin performing regularly, bringing folk-styled storytelling alongside a twist of country instrumentation.

In May 2022, Howard released his single ‘Not Like Superman,’ a song in which he talks about the struggles of always trying to please others but never being good enough, featuring body-hitting drums and a powerful 8-piece string section. Later that year, he followed up with 'Trojan Horse,' a fast gallop where he reminisces about his own emotional journey when feeling at his most vulnerable. Both singles led to airtime on multiple radio stations, including BBC Introducing Merseyside.

His latest release, 'Cancellation,' is a Cinematic Country Pop song that embarks on a journey of frustrations and disappointments in dead-end relationships, capturing the feeling of being trapped in a constant cycle of Déjà vu.

Recent performances include The British Country Music Festival, Wychwood Festival, Celtic Connections, and the BBC Introducing showcase at The Cavern, along with supporting Robert Vincent & Ian Prowse.

“Has one of those unique sounds that just makes you want more,” says Clunk Magazine.

MUMFORD & SONS  - BELIEVE

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen Mumford perform now, but the first time was in 2011 when they supported Arcade Fire in Hyde Park. I’ve been following them ever since and it’s been interesting to see some of the musical transitions they have made over the years. Especially this album and this song, where they started to introduce electric elements into their songs. I think that encouraged me to dive into different sound worlds when recording.

SNOW PATROL - OPEN YOUR EYES

I listened to all sorts of different music during my teens including Snow Patrol. They now live on my running playlist, so I’ve heard this a good few times. The main thing I took from this track is how it builds and gives such a burst of energy as the song progresses. It’s that energy I wanted to recreate in ‘Cancellation’ - building up to something that you can feel is coming and finally getting that relief.

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN – I’M ON FIRE

My first ever gig was Bruce Springsteen in Manchester and he has been a massive influence ever since. Lyrically and musically I think he’s one of the best. I really like the moodiness of this track and how it feels like pent up tension.

FLYTE – EVERYONE’S A WINNER

Finishing off with one of my favourite bands at the moment. I came across Flyte when they released their album ‘This Is Really Going To Hurt’ - every song on that album is brilliant. I’ve seen them twice now, once in Liverpool and recently at Glastonbury - they just get better every time I see them. I picked out ‘Everyone’s A Winner’ for its structure and how it starts with the chorus instantly. I loved how that’s an unusual thing to do, so I took inspiration from that for ‘Cancellation’.