My Music

Host Graham Coath is joined by Alex and Jane from Imperial Age, broadcasting straight from London, where boxes, merch, CDs surround them, and the very real pressure of getting thousands of orders out the door in time...What follows is a wide-ranging, brutally honest, and often hilarious conversation about life in music, building something epic from the ground up, and what it really takes to survive — and thrive — as a modern independent band.Alex and Jane talk about the long road to becoming Imperial Age, the origin (and non-origin) of the band’s name, growing up together, getting into trouble at school, and why independence wasn’t a romantic choice — it was a necessity after years of rejection from labels, managers, and industry gatekeepers.This episode dives deep into:Running a band like a business (whether you like it or not)The myth of the “glamorous independent artist”Fans vs clients — and why real fans matterCrowdfunding, merch, burnout, and buying your time backSongwriting, creative instincts, and knowing when a song is finishedWhy honesty, resonance, and value matter more than hypeAlong the way, there are stories about Travelodge disasters, Age of Empires, Palpatine impressions, shower-written hit songs, Reddit trolls, music “gurus”, and why success isn’t about pretending — it’s about showing up and doing the work.As always on MyMusic, this isn’t just about the music. It’s about the people behind it, the thinking that drives it, and the reality of creating something meaningful in a noisy world.Imperial Age don’t just make epic, cinematic metal — they live it.🎧 Listen now, support the band properly, and if you think you’ve cracked the meaning behind their Atlantis T-shirt… Alex might owe you one. (depends on how quick you are only 1 available in the give away)

In this episode of My Music, join us as we welcome special guest Sydney Elliott, also known by her artistic name, FRANK. We kick off with a light-hearted discussion on the quirks of attending a school nativity play and the unexpected difficulties of voice control in young children. Sydney shares her personal journey from a chatty, inquisitive child to finding her artistic identity and the impact of iconic artists like Ella Fitzgerald. We explore the importance of space in music creation, the interplay between music and visuals, and Sydney's own evolution with her short hair and tattoos. Dive deep into the creative process, the influence of jazz, and the aspirational dream of scoring a film. This episode is brimming with insightful anecdotes, practical advice for budding musicians, and a heartfelt conversation on artistic expression. Don't miss out on the inspirations behind FRANKS innovative music and her thoughts on future collaborations.

In this episode, Katie from the band TAHM joins Graham to discuss the journey and evolution of their music career. From their early days as Stream in the late ’90s, signing with Roadrunner Records, to their present-day endeavours as TAHM, Katie shares insightful anecdotes about the music industry.They delve into the creative process, the challenges of producing social media content, and the importance of quality control. The conversation also touches on humorous viral moments, the peculiarities of human behaviour, and the influence of cultural shifts on music.Join them for a delightful conversation filled with laughter, nostalgia, and a look at what’s next for TAHM, including new music releases and aspirations for the future.

Reflecting on Six Years of Music: An In-depth Chat with Janelle of GENNIn a candid conversation, we discuss their experiences and evolution over six years in the music industry, nurturing the band 'GENN' and reflecting on the profound changes they've witnessed. From humble beginnings in Malta to relocating due to Brexit, Janelle provides a fascinating look back at her music journey, the band's influences, and the challenges they faced along the way. Additionally, we delve into the supportive sisterhood within the band, the evolving music scene in Malta, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity amidst industry pressures. Don't miss this engaging discussion that not only tracks the band's roots but also explores cultural influences, favourite obscure bands, and the aspiration to resonate authentically with their audience in 2026.#NewMusic #Alternative #PopArt #Sisterhood #Malta #Songwriting

In this episode of My Music, Graham Coath sits down with rising rock artist Venus Blake for a lively, funny and deeply insightful conversation. From sneaking backstage to hug Alice Cooper to navigating the chaotic world of social media, Venus brings honesty, humour, and authentic rock energy to the mic.Venus talks about her journey from classically trained pianist to hard-edged rock performer, her move from London to Italy, and the artists who shaped her — including Ozzy Osbourne, Lady Gaga, and of course, Alice Cooper himself. She opens up about the challenge of staying authentic online, redefining content creation as an art form, and building a community through her new Patreon for her “Rock Soldiers”.Graham and Venus dive into everything from exploding microwaves to the future of live music, the rising cost of gigs, and what it really takes for a young independent artist to break through today. And yes — there’s even a discussion about air fryers, Christmas songs, and how rock musicians can take over TikTok without losing their souls.Venus also shares exciting hints about her upcoming 2026 album — describing it as “what would happen if Alice Cooper and Lady Gaga had a baby.” Expect theatre, grit, huge melodies… and a new wave of unapologetic rock.It’s bold, funny, heartfelt, and full of creative sparks — the perfect episode for anyone who loves music, rock culture, or raw artistic honesty.

My Music with Graham Coath — Georgia & Amelia of Wednesday’s ChildIn this episode of My Music, host Graham Coath sits down with Georgia and Amelia from the boundary-pushing, fiercely creative London ensemble Wednesday’s Child.From the moment the conversation begins, it’s clear this isn’t just a band — it’s a sisterhood, a communion, and a brave creative force exploring the shadows and the light of being human.Together, they dive into:the magic and theatricality behind Wednesday’s Child’s soundhow silent movies, clowning, and dramatic expression inform their artcreativity, curiosity, and resisting the pull of a “20-second attention span” worldthe deep, vulnerable relationships that drive their musicreclaiming darkness, navigating your twenties, and using discomfort as an artistic catalystThe making of their upcoming single and the emotional architecture behind itThis is a conversation about art, friendship, self-reckoning, and the urgent need to learn how to listen again. Whether you’re already a Wednesday’s Child fan or discovering them for the first time, you’ll walk away inspired, challenged, and maybe a little more curious.

My Music with Graham Coath — featuring Grace Cooper-HallIn this episode of My Music, Graham Coath sits down with UK-born, Massachusetts-based singer, songwriter, and piano-playing genre-shapeshifter Grace Cooper-Hall. From her pop-punk teenage beginnings in Grimsby to the thriving US wedding and events circuit, Grace shares her journey through music, love, and the discovery of her voice.Graham and Grace dive into everything from cover-band culture and reinventing popular songs to the raw honesty of artists like Amy Winehouse, Lily Allen and Charlie XCX. Grace also gives us a first look at her upcoming original work — including her debut track Boys With Guitars — described as a mix of hyper-pop energy and rock intensity (or as Graham and an AI model dub it: electro-metal-core).They talk about navigating the modern music landscape, AI’s impact on creativity, building a band for 2026, and the joy of finally releasing music that reflects who you really are.A warm, funny, and heartfelt conversation with an artist on the rise — and a must-listen for anyone who loves real musicians, real stories, and the graft behind great music.

Drum Machines, Cocteau Twins & Christmas Albums for 2025In this episode of My Music, host Graham Coath hangs out with Kate Ramsey, the creative force behind The 'Rose Haze'. Expect drum machines, dream-pop, grief, Rubik’s Cubes, AI, and a whole lot of heart.Kate talks about ordering a new drum machine to finish the tracks that she’s been sitting on, and how the creative process can feel exactly like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube – easy on the first side, maddening on the last few. She shares the deeply personal story behind The Rose Haze’s bold cover of “Heaven or Las Vegas” by Cocteau Twins, created with her late collaborator Ruben, and how that track has become a kind of headstone and hymn for him.Graham and Kate dive into:🥁 Drum machines, live sets and why “happy accidents” in music matter🎧 The pressure of finishing albums when you have too many ideas and references🌊 Covering Cocteau Twins, working with Ruben Gonzales and processing grief through sound🤖 AI as a tool to break and play with, not fear🎄 The idea of a modern, alternative Christmas album that actually reflects now👫 Why community, tiny gigs and authentic human connection still matter more than algorithmsIf you love Cocteau Twins, shoegaze, dreamy guitar soundscapes or just honest conversations about what it really takes to make music in 2025, this one’s for you.🎵 After listening, go and check out Rose Haze, add a track to a playlist, share it with a friend, and — if you can — support with some merch. Independent music survives because people like you actually show up.

My Music – Graham Coath talks to Balderdasch (Jess Matthews)In this episode, Graham Coath sits down with alt-pop artist Balderdasch — also known as Jess Matthews — for a colourful, funny, and candid conversation about creativity, identity, and the messy magic of making music.Jess talks about her ever-changing visual eras (including the famous knitted balaclava crafted by her mum), the club culture influences that seep into her left-field pop sound, and why her violin may make a scratchy cinematic comeback. She opens up about the tension between artistry and the pressures of promotion, how collaboration fits into her future, and the politics of where her music shouldn’t end up.Graham digs into the craft: Jess’s inspirations from St. Vincent to Kim Gordon, the joy and pain of songwriting, and the realities of being an independent musician in a digital age. They explore themes of emotional inheritance that are shaping Jess’s next body of work — and her ambition to take her time and create an album with depth and intention.The episode is packed with stories, humour, and raw insight: festival supergroups that could’ve been, obscure Christmas songs, the chaos of TikTok virality, and the strange intimacy between artists and the audience.Jess also shares details of upcoming live shows in London — including Montez Press Radio’s fundraiser and her own headline gig at The Victoria, Dalston.A thoughtful and vivid conversation with an artist forging her own path.Tune in, discover Balderdasch, and add her music to your playlist — your ears will thank you.

Clara Lars: Finding Her Unique Sound and Musical JourneyIn this engaging episode, we sit down with Clara Lars, a talented musician studying at NYU's Clive Davis Institute. Clara shares her musical journey, from her early days experimenting with melodies on the piano to mastering Ableton during the COVID lockdown. She discusses her challenges in finding her unique sound and voice, inspired by artists like Lana Del Rey and experiences from her life. Clara also opens up about the creative process behind her songwriting and her ambitions to connect deeply with her audience. Additionally, she talks about the importance of visual storytelling in her music, her upcoming projects, and shares some interesting insights into her life and inspirations. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the making of a modern-day artist!

MyMusic with Graham Coath — In Conversation with Chellcy Reitsma: From Professional Dancing to Retro-Inspired MusicJoin host Graham Coath for a captivating conversation with the multi-talented Chellcy Reitsma, as she shares her remarkable journey from California to Malta, her early career as a professional dancer, and her evolution into a genre-blending music artist.Chellcy opens up about the life experiences that shaped her, the creative spark behind her retro-inspired sound, and the artistic vision that drives her work. She also takes us behind the scenes of her double album Memento Mori and Carpe Diem, revealing the stories, emotions, and inspirations woven into each project.This episode offers a rich and engaging insight into Chellcy’s life, artistry, and creative process — complete with thoughtful reflections and a few entertaining anecdotes along the way.

MyMusic with Graham Coath — Featuring Jill Goyeau from Talking VioletIn this episode of MyMusic, Graham sits down with the wonderfully thoughtful and wildly creative Jill Goyeau, vocalist, guitarist, and founding member of the Canadian dream-pop/shoegaze band Talking Violet.Recorded bright and early from Jill’s Windsor, Ontario studio, this conversation dives into everything from the band’s formation and evolving line-up to the renaissance of shoegaze and the artists who shaped Talking Violet’s sound — think Slowdive, Cocteau Twins, Smashing Pumpkins, and more.Jill shares candid insights on songwriting, performing live with energy (yes, actual energy — no shoe-staring here), and the emotional honesty behind tracks like Destroy and Menagerie Queen. There’s nostalgia, laughter, a discussion about alternative Christmas music, and even a detour into Irish slang.Whether you’re discovering Talking Violet for the first time or you’re already a fan, this episode is a gorgeous blend of music geekery, heartfelt storytelling, and genuine connection.Listen in for:The band’s journey from duet to full-fledged shoegaze/alt-rock outfitJill’s musical inspirations and favourite lyrical momentsA deep dive into dream-pop textures, live energy, and the modern shoegaze revivalInternational touring ambitions — including why the southwest of England definitely deserves a stopWhat really helps indie artists in 2025 (hint: engagement matters!)Plus, Graham gives Talking Violet’s merch a well-deserved shout — because supporting independent music means more than just streaming.Hit play, discover your new favourite band, and—if you’re on Spotify—remember: your thumb only needs to move that far.

Talking Identity, Grit & Rebirth Through Music with ARYEL MOONIt’s a Friday afternoon — my favourite time to record — that magical moment when the week is done, the fear has lifted, and you can just be—perfect timing, then, to sit down with someone who brings their own props to the party. I had a disco ball; my guest had a glowing cube. Beat that.This week on MyMusic, I’m joined by the extraordinary Aryel Moon — or should I say, Donatella, because as you’ll hear, identity is a layered, shifting, powerful thing for this artist. What began as a solo project has evolved into a band: a collective of voices, roots, accents, and influences that somehow, beautifully, feel like home.In this episode, we talk about:✨ Floating roots and found belonging — from Sardinia to Bologna, Edinburgh to Balbriggan, and how accents become a map of the soul.✨ The alter ego as armour and liberation — why “ARYEL” protects “Donatella,” and how the two now coexist.✨ Falling out of music — and climbing back into it — the emotional cost of being silenced, and the spark that brought songwriting roaring back.✨ Growing up on distortion and riot grrrl — from Sonic Youth to L7 to Bikini Kill, and how Irish grit now mixes with Italian fire.✨ Why every great singer once hated their own voice — and how connection, not perfection, is the real magic.✨ The Cranberries, freedom songs, and healing — how "Dreams" helped soundtrack her rebirth.✨ The absolute necessity of funding the arts — and stuffing cash into the pockets (if they have them) of gigging musicians.✨ Their debut EP — dropping 20th November, with a launch show in Dublin on the 28th.Aryel Moon are fresh, fierce and full of heart — an alt-rock sound that is Irish in spirit, European in roots, and utterly their own.And trust me: punk is their favourite colour.Stick around to the end to hear how you can support them, buy the music, and maybe even buy the T-shirt (I’ve demanded one).

My Music with Graham Coath — Anna May (not Anime!)This week Graham sits down with Anna May — Connecticut-born, sometimes-San Diego-based singer–songwriter — for a wide-ranging conversation about voice, vulnerability and finding your lane when you don’t fit neatly into one genre. Anna grew up on a diet of female storytellers (Natalie Merchant, Tori Amos, Alanis Morissette), 90s alt, dad’s country (The Mavericks, Dwight Yoakam) and a childhood of jazz rooms—and it all threads through her work.She talks candidly about writing lyrics first (often as poems), letting the voice improvise live so no song lands the same way twice, and recording one-take magic with engineer Steve Rizzo in Rhode Island. We touch on k.d. lang (“Constant Craving”, “The Air That I Breathe”), unexpected covers (yes, Ozzy Osbourne), social media’s darker edges, boundaries, and how a bruising breakup became a healing body of songs. There’s even a New England vs California detour, a Billy Bragg nod, and a Groove Armada truth bomb: “If everybody looked the same, we’d get tired of looking at each other.”

My Music with Graham Coath — Featuring Mary McAvoyIn this soulful and wide-ranging episode of My Music, host Graham Coath heads across the Atlantic to chat with Mary McAvoy, a singer-songwriter from Providence, Rhode Island, whose voice blends classic soul, blues, and pop into something timelessly human.Together they explore how community, creativity, and the sea itself inspire her work — from her early love of Whitney Houston and Celine Dion to her blues-infused originals that channel both comfort and catharsis. Mary talks openly about growing up in a musical household, the reality of life after appearing on The Voice USA, and what success really means when fame isn’t the goal.There’s humour, heart, and even a guest appearance from Mary’s dachshund-beagle mix (who clearly approves of good music). The conversation dives into everything from Ella Fitzgerald to quantum physics, from the soul of live performance to why women in music are rewriting the rules of age and success.🎧 Expect laughter, depth, and the kind of honesty that makes My Music so special — a space where artists share not just their songs, but their stories.#MyMusic #Podcast #MaryMcAvoy #SingerSongwriter #RhodeIsland #GrahamCoath #TheVoiceUSA #Blues #Soul #IndependentMusic

Derek Shulman on Gentle Giant, Legacy, and Reinventing Music with AI as he talks about his book Giant StepsIn this special episode of My Music, we dive into the extraordinary life and career of Derek Shulman, famously known for his work with the progressive rock band Gentle Giant. Instead of discussing a new record, we explore Derek's newly released book, 'Giant Steps,' which chronicles his incredible journey in the music industry. Join us as we discuss his musical beginnings influenced by his jazz musician father, pivotal moments in his career, his thoughts on AI in music, and the lasting impact of Gentle Giant's work. From his early days to working with new technology, Derek shares rich anecdotes and lessons that are both authentic and inspiring. Don't miss this in-depth conversation that explores the essence of creativity, the importance of staying true to oneself, and navigating the ever-evolving music industry landscape.Giant Steps is available to order https://www.amazon.co.uk/Giant-Steps-Improbable-Journey-Executive/dp/191682924400:00 Introduction and Special Episode Announcement00:12 Introducing Derek Shulman and His Book 'Giant Steps'01:33 Derek Shulman's Journey with AI and Music02:59 Authenticity and Talent in the Music Industry03:56 Derek Shulman's Early Life and Family Influence07:07 Sobriety and Observations in the Music Scene08:49 Reflections on Ozzy Osbourne and Working-Class Roots11:12 The Importance of Authenticity and Leadership in Music22:59 Transition from Musician to Music Executive32:05 The Legacy of Gentle Giant and Modern Music Industry Challenges35:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Composing Emotion: Jess Faber on Film, Feeling, and Finding Her SoundThis week I sit down with the brilliantly talented Jess Faber, a composer whose music tells stories without words.Known for her evocative, cinematic compositions, Jess creates scores that bring films to life, weaving emotion through piano, strings, and texture rather than lyrics. In this conversation, she opens up about:Writing music for film and why silence, dialogue, and melody must all learn to share the same space.The challenge of creating as a film score composer in a world ruled by algorithms, TikTok trends, and ten-second attention spans.Her journey from classical training to creative freedom and the moment she decided to stop “fitting in” and start writing what truly moved her.Why is it sometimes better to grow slowly and stay authentic than chase virality?The influence of her grandmother, her classical roots, and how storytelling still drives everything she composes.Jess also talks about the emotional heart of her work, her admiration for composers like @haniarani and Trent Reznor, and what she’s planning next, including her first EP and a growing passion for live performance.As always, there’s laughter, honesty, and a few musical tangents (including jazz jokes, banjos, and stage fright confessions).Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.📸 Follow Jess on Instagram for updates and live performance news — including her upcoming show with Mess Collective on 20 November.#Music #Soundtracks #Piano #Passion #Podcast

My Music with Graham Coath — Featuring Kelsey KleinIn this episode of My Music, Graham Coath sits down with singer-songwriter Kelsey Klein, a captivating artist bringing the piano back to centre stage.They explore why Kelsey chose the piano as her creative heartbeat, how her upbringing shaped her sound, and what it means to balance emotional depth with everyday life. From early memories of her mother playing lullabies at the keys to discovering Tori Amos and finding her own artistic voice, Kelsey’s story is filled with warmth, honesty, and insight.The two dive deep into the beauty of “messy” humanity, creativity in an age of AI, and how vulnerability fuels true art. Plus, Kelsey opens up about love, structure, and the people who hold space for her intensity and creativity.It’s a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about art, connection, and staying true to your inner voice in a digital world.🎧 Listen now to discover Kelsey Klein’s world — one where emotion meets melody, and every note tells a story.👉 Find Kelsey’s music, merch, and more at kelseyklein.com and follow her on Instagram @iamkelseyklein

Ella Walker (Wildes) on Music, Creative Process, and Childhood Inspiration Welcome to another episode of My Music! In this episode, we sit down with the incredibly talented Ella Walker, also known as Wildes. Join us as we dive into her creative process, her latest album ALL WE DO IS FEEL, and the inspiration behind her captivating music. Ella shares anecdotes from her younger years, her childhood experience on children's TV, and her love for various music genres, from 90s hip-hop to jazz. We also discuss artists' modern challenges with social media and maintaining genuine creativity. Ella reveals how she balances emotional depth with upbeat tracks in her music and talks about her ideal collaborations. Don't miss this insightful conversation with Ella Walker, where art, emotion, and creativity beautifully intersect. Remember to check out her new album on Bandcamp and leave a comment to let her know your thoughts. Enjoy and stay tuned for more episodes of My Music!Order your copy of the album at https://wildesmusic.bandcamp.com/

MyMusic with Graham Coath — featuring Chrissie NealeWelcome back to MyMusic with your host Graham Coath — it’s been a little while, but this conversation makes the wait worthwhile.This episode features the radiant Chrissie Neale, an artist from Bristol who’s lighting up Instagram with her infectious energy and heartfelt disco-infused pop. Graham and Chrissie dive into her creative journey — from scribbling lyrics on scraps of paper at her grandparents’ house to rediscovering her love of performance after years of holding back.They explore the stories behind her songs Shadow and Fire and The Glamour — both packed with empowerment, emotion, and a touch of sparkle — and talk about how music became Chrissie’s way of stepping out of the shadows and embracing who she truly is.Expect a warm, witty, and inspiring chat about authenticity, confidence, and what “glamour” really means today — not just sequins and shine, but those magical, everyday moments that make life feel enchanted. There’s laughter, honesty, and even a bit of talk about kitchen dancing (and how teenage kids don’t always appreciate it!).Chrissie also shares how her work as a life coach (@the_inspire_coach) connects to her artistry — helping others rediscover joy, confidence, and purpose through expression and creativity.Her upcoming track The Joke’s On You isn’t out yet, but after this episode, you’ll be counting the days until it drops.✨ Follow @chrissieneale1 for music and updates✨ Follow @the_inspire_coach for inspiration and coaching insights🎶 Stream Shadow and Fire and The Glamour now on Spotify and all major platformsAs Graham says, you’re never too old, too late, or too unique to shine.🎧 MyMusic — where stories meet songs, and every guest reminds us why music still matters.