Welcome to the latest edition of Six Questions With..., a weekly short and sharp interview with a live music figure. Email jhanley@nbmedia.com if you would like to take part or recommend someone for inclusion.
This week's Q&A is with singer/songwriter Shelly Poole, formerly one half of Alisha's Attic and currently a member of husband and wife duo, Red Sky July.
What was your first job in music?
My first job in music was at the BBC in White City when I was 14. My sister and I were the band that the directors did their training courses with. After school for an hour or two once a week, stand still for ages while they set up lights/shots and then three times filming the song. I learnt patience!
How long have you been in your current role?
I’ve been writing and touring with Red Sky July since 2006, so 11 years , the live scene has changed quite a bit in that time and so has the Americana genre in the UK. I've been a songwriter (my day job) for other artists since we disbanded Alisha's Attic in 2004 .
What is your favourite thing about working in the music industry?
I love music so my favourite thing is playing and creating it. There's nothing more fulfilling and also more frustrating than music. It's my biggest love and also my worst boyfriend. I also adore the people you meet in this industry, inspired, ambitious and a little odd!
What is the one thing you would like to change about the business?
Finding one thing would be hard as there are many. For songwriters/producers and players I would make sure credits are on streaming platforms. We don't get paid for those jobs anymore and PPL income is what kept a lot of musicians going. I would also like to see more small venues that young bands don't have to pay to play in.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I've written and toured with so many wonderful people but I think when we (Red Sky July) played the Royal Albert Hall as part of BluesFest that was great. It's such an iconic venue. Also supporting Steve Earle was amazing as we got to see his show every night.
What's the best gig you’ve ever been to?
Oh that's hard as every Neil Diamond gig is my best but I guess for life changing aspects My first ever Prince gig at Wembley Arena without my parents . It was the Parade tour. I've never been so excited and in love. It was loud colourful and so wild. I have to also mention Bonnie Prince Billy's first UK gig at the Hackney Empire and Simon & Garfunkel's return at Hyde Park. Both were holy moments that I still think about all the time.
