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Photo credit: Jodie Canwell
Complacent – Is a Fear of failure or the fear of what other people think can propel us to stay
complacent, comfortable and bored. Those fears are powerful forces that can produce limiting
beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that inhibit our potential, relationships, happiness and
fulfillment. Fear holds us back.
In the music industry, there has been a need to follow trends. Every artist suddenly starts looking
like someone else. It is difficult to determine “who is who”, or what for that matter. Styles have
become unique only to the person who originally created it. After that, it has been a mere
duplication of what seems to work.
A complacent thought process has developed and there is no turning back or changing the minds
of artists in the music industry. It affects all genres of music. Though, in each decade I can select
certain artists that have stuck out as being authentic. You can say the “buck” the trends and
follow their own lead or path. One of the reasons why they stood out from the rest, is because
they were unafraid of their decisions. All they knew, is that they wanted too authentic and real as
possible. Even if they had to accomplish what is seen as unpopular.
I heard a song recently. It was from an artist by the name of Samantha Durnan. It is possible, that
I haven’t heard of her until now, because I have been distracted with other mainstream artists and
trends. I awoke something in me, that I thought I had forgotten. For a long time, my ear was
trained to listen for authentic sounds and styles of singing. I guess my senses became
overwhelmed by the trendy artists, that it was oblivious to the ones that were truly creating art.
Therefore, the need for change in my direction. It is time to focus on talent.
ABOUT SAMANTHA DURNAN
Samantha Durnan is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from the North-
East. Her music has received support from Radio 1, BBC Introducing, and BBC 6
Music, and her self-produced single was featured as Q magazine’s “Track of the
Week.” A dedicated artist, Samantha has shared the stage with Ed Sheeran, Kate
Nash, Beverley Knight, The Hoosiers, and Finley Quaye. She recently collaborated with
Bramwell Brampton, Producer of Sam Fender’s Hypersonic Missiles, as part of ‘Create
Collaborate’. An Ambassador for Orange Amplifiers, Samantha rocks out with her Les
Paul in her self-directed music show, SHE The Show, which celebrates pop rock
sheroes of the 70s and 80s and is showcased at theatres and venues across the UK.
INTERVIEW WITH SAMANTHA DURNAN AND GUITAR THRILLS MAGAZINE
Guitar Thrills: Hello Samantha. I am pleased to have the opportunity to chat with you today.
As I mentioned in the introduction, it was my first time hearing you recently. The song that
captured my attention is called “Tell Me Something”. I thought it was authentic. It almost
had some eighties vibes to it. However, there was a unique twist to it. Something that came
from within side you as an artist. Great job.
How important is it to you to be authentic?
Samantha: Hello! Thanks so much for your kind words regarding the single. From a young
age, I’ve always had a deep love for music. Singing, playing instruments, and songwriting
have come naturally to me, with every sound feeling like it comes from within. Throughout
my musical career, I've been influenced by my icons, and their impact undoubtedly plays a
part in my work. However, I believe it's crucial to tune into your own emotions and perform
authentically. When you stay true to yourself, you'll be amazed at what you can create.
Guitar Thrills: Where do you find inspiration as you build upon the elements of a great
song?
Samantha: You’ll often find me lost in the writing stage with my acoustic guitar, pounding out the beat,
searching for the hook. Once I find the hook, the words and structure just flow naturally.
Interestingly, I usually discover what the song is about after I’ve written it! My subconscious
mind has a funny way of drip-feeding my life experiences into the lyrics, embedding hidden
meanings throughout the songwriting process.
Guitar Thrills: Do you recall artists that have provided you with direction through the early
years of your career?
Samantha: I used to sit and rummage through my parents' tapes, and if I found a track with a catchy melody or an epic guitar solo, I was hooked. I wouldn’t even know who the artist
was, but I was determined to work out the chords and the drum beat by ear. That was the
fun part. Eric Clapton's catchy "Layla" guitar riff, Stevie Nicks' poetic "Landslide" lyrics,
Aretha Franklin's soul in "Say a Little Prayer," Queen's unconventional "Bohemian
Rhapsody" structure, Kate Bush’s expressive "Babooshka," and The Beach Boys' harmonies
in "Wouldn’t It Be Nice" are all early memories that influenced me as a young musician.
Listening to such an eclectic mix has definitely helped me work with different musical
projects and genres over the years.
Guitar Thrills: What elements or components do you focus on when you develop a song or
sound?
Samantha: As a drummer, rhythm is incredibly important to me. It provides the groove and
flow that guides the lyrics and instruments. When I'm writing an acoustic song and my foot
starts tapping, it often turns into a full production—nine times out of ten, I just can’t help
myself! Haha. The rhythm sets the foundation, and everything else naturally follows.
Guitar Thrills: I noticed that you are also a gifted guitar player. Where did your love for
Guitar come from?
Samantha: I really appreciate that, thank you! My dad played a little, and he had an old
Spanish guitar lying around the house. As soon as he showed me my first chords, I never
looked back. Despite having a short attention span as a child, my parents were shocked to
see me playing for hours. There's no feeling like being able to pick up an instrument. It's a
passion that never fades, and I never get tired of it.
Guitar Thrills: Our there specific techniques that you have made your own? If so, please
explain.
Samantha: Given my love for rhythm, I've developed a unique playing style over the years.
With my acoustic guitars, I often pound the strings with the side of my hand to create a
bass drum effect while playing. It might be easier to purchase a stomp box, but this
technique has become second nature to me.
Guitar Thrills: Have you experienced the level of success that you initially anticipated? If
not, why?
Samantha: This question really got me thinking! My idea of success has definitely changed
over the years. I’m really proud of the things I’ve achieved throughout my career; however,
I’m always setting goals for myself and striving to improve as an artist, performer, and
musician. I have many aspirations, and I’m determined to achieve them!
Guitar Thrills: I believe that many young artists are on a journey to improve their own ability
in the music industry. Is there something that you feel you could do better as an artist?
Samantha: Absolutely! As an independent artist, I make sure to take time to reflect on my journey and
ensure I’m aligned with my original passion. I always set new goals and identify areas for
improvement, which helps me grow. I learn something new about my craft and myself every
day.
Guitar Thrills: Do you have career goals in mind, with a plan for achieving them?
Samantha: I’m currently working on an exciting new show I’ve created called “SHE,”
performed alongside four musicians I’ve collaborated with throughout my career. It’s a
celebration of pop rock sheroes of the 70s and 80s, featuring hits from legends like Stevie
Nicks, Kate Bush, Chrissie Hynde, Patti Smith, Cyndi Lauper, and Blondie, to name a few.
We have shows scheduled for the end of this year and into the new year at theatres and
music venues around the UK. This show not only lets me rock out, but it has also taught me
a great deal about booking shows, marketing, and managing a team. The plan is to connect
with new audiences around the UK. Actually, let’s go big—THE WORLD! Haha!
Guitar Thrills: Do you feel that you have the support required to take your music career to
another level?
Samanta: I'm really focused on the show at the moment and looking to take it to the next
level. This is a slightly different field for me, as I'm acting as the director, performer,
promoter, booking agent, and more. The support from our audiences is growing, as are the
contacts behind the scenes, which fills me with determination. I'm always looking to seize
opportunities for the growth of the production.
Guitar Thrills: I mention that besides singing, you are also a guitar player. What brand of
guitar do you play and why?
Samantha: Thank you! My Gibson SG and Les Paul are my go-tos. I use the SG more for lead
guitar and the Les Paul for its warm rhythm tones. When purchasing a guitar, I focus on the
tone and feel. With these two Gibsons, I knew they were the ones because I didn’t want to
put them down!
Guitar Thrills: Who are the other members of your band and what role do they have?
Samantha: The members of my original band are the same talented individuals I work with in the “SHE”
production. We’re like family, each with our own unique story as musicians. Their
exceptional talent shines through in every performance. I’m incredibly proud to perform
alongside them and hope to continue doing so for many years to come. The team includes
Steph Hooton (bassist), Andrew Pipe (guitarist), Louise Radford (vocalist), and Andrew
Jones (drummer).
Guitar Thrills: I want to encourage you to keep moving forward. Maintain your focus, and
never become complacent with your efforts. I think you have a great voice. I know we will
be hearing more about you. Please never hesitate from reaching out to us. We are always
willing to promote talented artists.
Samantha: Thank you so much. That means the world. Sending love guys!
A RECAP OF WHAT YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED
