Q&A: Alx Romance

Alx Romance (formerly Alexander Romance) is an alt-pop artist from Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland influenced by the emo rap scene of the mid-late 2010's and modern dance music, with Lil Peep and Fred again.. cited as major inspirations to his sound.

Alx perfomed on the main stage of YouthBeatz in 2023 alongside Joel Corry and PIxie Lott, and has just returned from Tallin Music Week in Estonia. We caught up with Alx to find out all about his most recent single ‘Miss You’, his trip to Estonia, and his favourite Scottish artists.

Your latest single 'Miss You' dropped on the 12th of this month, can you tell us more about the meaning of the song and how it came to be?

"Miss You" by Alx Romance intricately weaves together themes of love, loss, and grief, exploring the multifaceted dynamics of relationships. The song delves into the pain of losing not only romantic partners but also friends or loved ones through death. Lyrics like "Build me up just to break me down" reflect the roller coaster of emotions experienced during both romantic entanglements and the grieving process. The haunting line "I still hear your voice when you're not around" echoes the profound impact of loss and the enduring presence of those who have passed away. Through its alternative pop sound and heartfelt lyrics, the song becomes a poignant reflection on the complexities of human connection, highlighting the bittersweet nature of love and the ache of loss.

You're not long back from Tallinn Music Week in Estonia, how was that? And what was it like performing outside of the UK for the first time? 

I had the fortunate opportunity of experiencing the global music industry converging on Tallinn City. Furthermore, I felt  honoured to showcase my music and represent Scotland. The event being opened by the President of Estonia stood out for me, because it gave me an insight into the value placed on the music industry in other regions and the role we play as ambassadors. It was a special experience for me performing because I could test out my new music. I had industry professionals listening, giving good feedback and seeking collaboration.

Which Scottish acts are you enjoying listening to at the moment? And who do you think could become the next big thing in Scotland/the UK/internationally?

Vlure have a special place in my heart, they changed my understanding of live performance. I enjoy a bit of Pearling too.

Tell us your three desert island albums.

Lil Peep Hellboy, Lil Peep COWYS 1, Lil Peep COWYS 2.

If you could collaborate with anyone on future music, who would it be?

Wow that's a hard one, I always thought me and Halsey would make a banger.

What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are looking to establish themselves in the Scottish music industry? 

Be authentic, be yourself. Get up, get out there, show-up. Above all things value your health and mental wellbeing.

And finally, what can we expect to see from Alx Romance throughout the rest of 2024? 

Releases, collaborations, performances.

For all things Alx Romance, click here.

Q&A: John Rush

Resonate Live Showcase 2023 📸: Daanyaal Mohammed

Glasgow based singer-songwriter John Rush with his 'folk tinged pop songs' has played some of Glasgow’s greatest venues such as King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, O2 Academy, Barrowland Ballroom and most recently, The Royal Concert Hall.

John’s first headline show of 2024 will see him and the band take to the beautiful Cottiers stage in Glasgow’s West End to showcase some of his newest material.

We caught up with John a month after the release of his latest single 'Waitin' for your love to call', just who these “special guests” are at his Cottiers headline (spoiler alert, he doesn’t tell us), and what 2024 has in store for the folk-pop singer-songwriter.

Your latest single dropped last month, could you tell us about 'Waitin' for your love to call', the track's meaning and how it came to be?

“I suppose the track is a bit contradictory, the music is probably the most upbeat I've ever written but ever true to form the lyrics couldn't be sadder haha I think with having being playing with t he band for the past few years it felt right to expand the sound a little from acoustic and vocal which I think we achieved with this track.”

Your next (and potentially only?) headline show in Glasgow this year is at the beautiful Cottiers with a special guest, can you give us some insight on the night?

“We have a few special guests playing with us, some we have played with in the past and one or two that will be first timers. I'm really excited for the show. It will be a different lay out from our previous shows. Suppose you'll need to buy a ticket to see it for yourselves.”

Which Scottish acts are you enjoying listening to at the moment? And who do you think could become the next big thing in Scotland/the UK/internationally?

“Big fan of Julen Santamaria (of Awkward Family Portraits) and of course Alice Faye is just it for me at the moment, can't see past her. And seeing her announce the Rufas Wainwright shows just makes so much sense. Think she'll be on Jools Holland before we know it.”

Tell us your three desert island albums.

“Revolver by The Beatles, Do It Yourself by The Seahorses & maybe Blood on the Tracks by Mr Dylan himself.”

If you could collaborate with anyone on future music, who would it be?

“I think as above Alice Faye, if you're reading this. Let's do something!”

What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are looking to establish themselves in the Scottish music industry?

“Just be yourself, do what your gut tells you and enjoy yourself. Only happens once as Liam Gallagher once said. Blink and its done. Be happy.”

And finally, what can we expect to see from John Rush throughout the rest of 2024?

“A few more singles and the album. I'm already writing a bit more but doubt I'll release anything soon after the new album so maybe a Christmas show. But I am excited for folk to hear the new album, its a bit different from my debut I must say.”

Check out our Artist of the Week playlist for all past features and follow John Rush here.