CelebMix recently introduced you to acoustic punk songstress Louise Distras, who has recently released her new EP, a collation of four socially-aware anthems, showcasing Louise’s sound and talent as a credible music artist. The four-track EP inspires people to stand together to make a change in society today.
To coincide with the release of the EP, Louise is set to embark on an acoustic headline tour around the UK, whereby she will also be raising money for Crisis Charity, along with Musicians Against Homelessness.
An exciting year inevitably lies in store for Louise Distras, including the release of further original music, performances at events around the UK.
Here at CelebMix, we had the opportunity to exclusively speak with Louise Distras about the release of her new music, her upcoming tour and much more. Make sure you read on to check out our exclusive interview!
You’ve recently released your new EP, titled ‘Street Revolution.’ How does it feel to have your own music released?
“Most of 2018 was spent writing, recording and mixing the new album in California with Steve Whale of The Business and Ross Petersen (Bruce Springsteen, Goo Goo Dolls). So I’m excited to finally be back on tour and start sharing all the new music I’ve been working on. The fan response to ‘Street Revolution’ has been fabulous so far, plus it’s been getting a lot of radio play and it’s currently number ten in the iTunes Chart. I’m really happy that folks are diggin’ the new tunes and can’t wait to share the new album later this year.”
What is your personal favourite track from the EP and why?
“‘Street Revolution’ – it’s a rallying anthem for the new underground movement of working class kids, rising together through music to fight for their future. But it’s one of those songs that means a thousand different things to a thousand different people. Just this week a fan wrote to me and said they’d been blasting it through the PA at last week’s ‘Anti Austerity March’ in London, which is extremely cool!”
In conjunction with the release of the EP, you’re heading on a tour around the UK, whereby you will be performing your music. What can people coming to the tour expect to see from your set?
“Well, some people say that acoustic shows are boring – clearly those people have never been to a Louise Distras show! It’s going to be just me, my guitar and a bunch of songs from the new album coming out later this year. It’s going to be a lot of fun!”
Your tour will be raising money for Crisis Charity, in conjunction with Musicians Against Homelessness. What do these charities represent to you?
“I ran away from home as a teenager and spent a lot of time living in dangerous situations with strangers who took advantage of me because I was young and vulnerable. Music saved my life and brought me to where I am today, so Musicians Against Homelessness is a cause that’s close to my heart and supporting them is my way of giving something back. We will be providing a text number for fans to donate at the shows and also providing more information about how everyone can support.”
Do you feel it’s important to use personal experiences when song-writing?
“All of these songs are about real life experiences. ‘Dreams’ was the product of growing up in a small town, running away from home and figuring out who I am. It was very vulnerable and angry, stripped right back to the guitar and voice. The new album goes much deeper into the next part of the story and encompasses a bigger, full band sound – there’s even a guitar solo! It sounds amazing so far. I’m so excited and can’t wait to share it with everyone later this year.”
What was your inspiration for getting in to music?
“I’ve been doing this my entire life. I was doing it before anyone heard of me and I’ll still be doing it when I’m old and nobody cares! I don’t know any different and even if I wanted a real job, nobody would give me one anyway.”
Who are your musical influences?
“There’s so many! I’ve never really classed myself as a good singer, but I think I’m a much better singer now than on the first album. There’s so many amazing singers who I look up to like Steven Tyler, Lars Frederiksen and Stevie Nicks – if I could be half as good as them, I’d be happy. A lot of people think I’m confident, but I get stage fright and puke before every show. Somebody told me that the same thing always happened to Freddie Mercury and he’s one of the greatest singers of all time.So when I’m nervous I just think: ‘What would Freddie do?’ – and then it’s game on!”
What have you got planned for the remainder of 2019 music-wise?
“I’m touring the UK in January and April, the US in May and then main-land Europe in June and July. Then the plan is to release the new album and play a lot more shows!”
Finally, do you have a message for your supporters?
“Thanks to all the true believers for having my back, letting me be myself and making the music I wanna make. Here’s to you and the new record coming soon!”
Tickets for Louise Distras’ tour can be bought by clicking here.
If you haven’t already, you can purchase Louise Distras’ EP from iTunes by clicking here.
Alternatively, the EP can be streamed on Spotify through the link below and is also available to purchase through other responsible music purchasing outlets.
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