Meet The Emerging Musical Force… John Blaylock

Homegrown Mancunian talent John Blaylock is proving he is a musical force to be reckoned with, arriving with his stunning debut release ‘Temples’. Delivering an unapologetic northern tone, alongside introspective lyricism, John Blaylock sings on the poignancy of life’s true essence; one-ness and connection. We sat down with the rising artist to discuss his exciting debut single, and what the future holds for his music.

Hi John, thanks for chatting with us! ‘Temples’ is your debut release; how does it feel to be sharing this track with the world?

My pleasure, it feels great. I’ve been working on this debut album for a long time so to have the first track out now and to have people listening to it all over the planet is immense. That said, I feel like this is where the real work begins; I can’t just sit back and hope it gets the exposure it deserves.

What is ‘Temples’ about, or what is it inspired by?

It’s about oneness and understanding that we’re all connected and jointly part of this amazing thing called life. It’s about letting go of ego and embracing love and kindness.

How long have you been making music?

A long time ago, I got a guitar for my birthday when I was 12 and that was in the 90s! Though I definitely remember writing songs even before I got the guitar, I had a notebook full of lyrics and would write all sorts of random nonsense in there. Before then, I did have piano lessons in primary school but I hated it. When the teacher told my mum she was wasting her time and money and I should stop, I remember going out in the street and punching the air in celebration!

You’re a homegrown Mancunian; what’s your favourite thing about Manchester? Are you still based there?

I was a baby when my folks moved here. I love the sense of community in Manchester, everyone talks to everyone. I have so many random conversations with so many random people all the time, and I love it. Since 2014, I’ve spent a year living in LA, a year living in Tokyo, 6 months in Scandinavia, 3 months in Pakistan and 18 months in South America. I only came back to Manchester (2 years ago) to make this record really which is ironic as the whole thing was recorded in London.

What’s your favourite part about performing live? And when can we catch you at a show?

I love everything about it but my fave thing is probably the variety of stunning venues I get to play in. I’m on a major UK tour at the start of next year and I’ve been checking out every venue, there’s so many beautiful 1500-2500 capacity theatres across Britain. Even when I’m selling out stadiums I’ll wanna go back to playing those theatres.

First up, I’m playing a show at Rough Trade Records on Brick Lane, London on Nov 21st. So, if you’re in the big smoke, come along!

Outside of music, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I do a lot of keep fit stuff and I’m quite partial to magic mushroom ceremonies. What better way to spend a Friday night than 4 hours in another dimension surrounded by loving and amazing people whilst listening to ethereal music?  

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I’d give myself a pat on the back and say “Well done, kid, your relentless graft, dedication, songwriting, guitar and vocal practice will be rewarded, just keep working and keep enjoying the journey. Oh, and buy some bitcoin!”

Is there anyone you would consider to be your idol?

Paul Scholes. To be one of the greatest footballers in the world and still stay totally humble, true to your roots and true to your family and the community you were brought up in. Lot of respect for that guy.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

It’s like every time I turn on the radio, they’re playing my music, it’s getting too much now in 2029, play another artist already! Living with total freedom all over the world, just coming back to Manchester May – Sept every year to play festivals all over Europe.

And finally, can you share anything about your upcoming releases?

Yes, I am very excited to say ‘Temples’ released on the 24th October and the amazing video featuring a zombie is out the week after, which just happens to be Halloween. Synchronicity or what!?

I run 6 community singing groups in Manchester (Facebook.com/thedaytimesingers)  and loads of my singers came down to be extras in the video, they look amazing, and they all really love the single so I’m really happy they got to be in the video! 

Check out John Baylock’s debut single ‘Temples’ here or below.