At just 19, Callum Burrows, otherwise known as Saint Raymond, has been shaking up the acoustic music scene with his unique pop-influenced sound. Nottingham’s very own has supported the likes of Bruce Springsteen and HAIM but is now breaking out on his own, having completed a headline tour last year. His popularity is reflected in the number of Soundcloud plays his tracks have racked up, with ‘Young Blood’ reaching over 190,000, whilst ‘Brighter Days’ has impressively hit almost 370,000 listens. Her Campus caught up with him to find out a little bit more about his influences, his most memorable gigs and any plans for the future.
How long have you been interested in making music and what kicked it off?
I’ve kind of always had an interest in music of all forms, but it really got me when I was about 14 and I began to write songs. I realised that I could go and play open mic nights and that kind of thing. That’s where it all started…
And who/what has had some influence on your musical style?
I’ve grown up listening to a lot of different genres and I think that has helped me in a way. I grew up listening to everything from The Beatles to Kanye West, Oasis to Bon Iver. A big mix of things!
Why did you decide upon ‘Saint Raymond’?
Well, the Saint part relates back to where I live back home and Raymond was my Granddad’s name.
How do you feel about being called ‘one to watch’ and ‘the next big thing’?
I have been so busy that I don’t get too interested in those kinds of details. For me, I just want to focus on the music and the worst thing would be to get carried away with praise and take my feet off the ground – but of course, for anyone to say things like that is lovely.
Who would you say your current favourite artists are and why?
I’m a massive fan of Royal Concept at the moment – their sound is huge. I’ve seen them live a couple of times and the sound is even bigger live, really good stuff.
What makes you and your musical style different from other artists in this particular genre?
I think my music has a bit of everything from pop to a rockier edge, I’m a fan of the ‘anthemic’ sound.
What do you like the most and the least about the acoustic pop music culture?
I think comparisons is one thing I find strange, like I’ve been compared to Jake Bugg a lot but that seems to be purely based on the fact we’re both from Nottingham and play guitar. I like Jake a lot but I think our music is very different. But I do like how supportive everyone is of one other.
How difficult would you say it is to emerge as a recognised artist in this genre?
I think it’s difficult in any genre to be honest. Getting a start can be very hard because it is something that so many people are chasing.
What has been your most memorable gig to date?
Hmm, there have been quite a few memorable moments so far but I think my headline show at Rescue Rooms in Nottingham was probably the most memorable. Having grown up in Nottingham, I always wanted to sell out that venue so playing there to a home crowd was like something I’ve never experienced before, the atmosphere was amazing.
Which venue(s) are you always excited to return to?!
There’s always something special about hometown shows at any venue, it’s just something special. I’m also a big fan of Glasgow and King Tuts.
What else do you do when you’re not producing music and playing gigs?!
Because everything is so crazy and busy I kind of like doing nothing, and actually relaxing! It seems weird but I just tend to zone out and hang with mates and watch rubbish TV.
What do you have in store for the future music-wise?!
I am working on my album at the moment which is quite exciting and I am also heading out on a UK and European tour with Ed Sheeran in about two weeks which is going to be pretty mental!
Finally, could you name three tracks that you haven’t been able to stop listening to recently?
Annie Eve – Elvis
Novo Amor – Cold
Ben Howard – End of the Affair
Catch up with Saint Raymond on his Facebook, Twitter and Soundcloud.
Edited by Sam Carey