Introducing The Soul-Stirring London-Based Talent… Barny Fletcher

Since releasing his debut single back in 2019, Barny Fletcher’s evolution as an artist has been swift. From hip-hop to R&B, underground pop to billowing electronics, the young London-based artist has already been picked by everyone from DJ Shadow to Michaela Coel for his sharp-edged style and undeniable charisma.

Now, with his latest music, Fletcher’s new era is set to be his best yet. His new soul-stirring single ‘Scotch of St James’ showcases his unrivalled passion for celebrating life’s candid moments through his most mature songwriting to date.

Taking its name from the famous London club with rich music heritage, ‘Scotch of St. James’ carries an infectious, feel-good energy. Named after the famous London nightclub of the same name, its lyrics follow a night under the club lights, with all worries left outside the door. Catchy, relatable and a little bit flirty, the smile-inducing single is a huge slice of sunshine.

We talk to Barny about his new release, his wide range of influences and what he has in store for the rest of 2024.

Tell us a little about yourself… what got you into making music?

Music has always been a huge part of my life. I was surrounded by a variety of sounds and genres growing up, which sparked my interest in creating my own stuff. It started as a hobby, but over time it became a passion and my main focus.

How would you describe your sound to someone who’s new to your music?

I’d say the sound is dynamic, drawing from various influences to create something a little unique each time. It’s ever-changing. I get a lot of joy from that. I think I like keeping people on their toes.

‘Scotch of St. James’ has such a cool, funky feel… can you tell us the creative process behind the song?

The Scotch of St. James is a nightclub in London – it’s a bit of an institution, really. I wanted to capture the energy and excitement of a night I had there. My friend MEZZ is a fantastic producer. He’d sent me the guitar part for ‘scotch’ a long while ago, and it was sitting on my laptop for ages. When I found it again, it was pretty exciting. I then hit up Valentine Morell, who I’d discovered online. She’s a great guitar player. She put some licks down. And it all came together. 

Apparently, the lyrics are inspired by a night out you had in London during Fashion Week? Can you tell us more?

I got into a party by pure luck. Virgil Abloh, Benji B, and Peggy Gou were DJing. Skepta, Tremaine Emory, Winnie Harlow, Hailey Bieber… they were all there partying. It was wild. The venue is tiny but has a legendary history too. Hendrix played his first show there under the stage name ‘Jimi Hendrix’. Paul McCartney met Stevie Wonder there. The night was a mix of surreal and inspiring, and it felt like the perfect backdrop for a song that celebrates London.

Does this track feel different to others you’ve made previously? If so, why?

I think “Scotch of St. James” sits in its own lane compared to my other tracks yeah. It has that luscious, light feel that I particularly love at the moment. 

Who are some of your biggest musical influences?

If you listen to my music, you’ll hear a lot of influences. The following names may not all sit together, but I’ll go ahead and list a few: Bob Dylan, Jamiroquai, Chilly Gonzales, David Gray, The Beatles, Kendrick Lamar, Young Thug, Bonzo Dog Band, The Weepies. Uh… yeah, that’s enough!

Other than making music, what other activities are normal in your daily routine?

I explore a few different creative outlets. Designing future clothes, I’m trying to make or learning intricate playing-card cuts… or occasionally talking shit with my friends on PlayStation. I haven’t nailed down a routine because each day can be quite different, but I enjoy anything that keeps me inspired.

What does Barny Fletcher have in store for the rest of 2024?

Whole lotta’ music. I’ve material coming out with Jay-1 and The Waterboys too. Two totally different projects. But that’s the fun part. Show-wise, I’m planning something for London in November. You’ll have to swing by.

Make sure to check out Barny Fletcher’s new track ‘Scotch of St. James’ here or below.