Steve Young UK On the Making Of “Looks Like You”
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind "Looks Like You" and the story it tells?
I usually start with lyrics for a new song but this was just a riff that 'fell' out of my fingers. It has a dual story - firstly meeting someone new after accepting that you are destined to keep recycling the same toxic relationships. Secondly, and more personally, having met so many people that envy my lifestyle, my freedom, my musical ability but really I look at their security, their families, kids, grandkids, sheds with neat rows of tools and think "It's me that envies you my friend.."
Can you talk about the recording and production process for "Looks Like You?"
It was very easy and budget concious - I started with a demo at home played to programmed drums. I then sent this to Olly Tandon in Manchester who added real drums. Then bass by local player Lewis White. At this stage I went to my local recording studio (The Practice Roomz - Stevenage) so I could turn the guitars up loud and record the vocals using decent mics. The keys were added at home by Drew Cowburn and then after a rough mix and some detailed editing & comping by myself it was back to The Practice Roomz for the final mix. The icing on top was to then send it to Abbey Road Studios for Mastering.... a guilty pleasure ;)
What has been one of your favorite memories along the path to making "Looks Like You?"
Easily the fact that I had no intentions of recording or releasing any new music this year but “Looks Like You” went down so well at Festivals & Gigs with the audience that it was a no brainer to put it out there. Also..... just seeing the pride on the face of the special lady who inspired it :)
What has been the most memorable experience or achievement in your music career so far?
Well, I will always fall back on my years with Darren Hayes (Savage Garden) from 2007-2012. Although his music was very different from anything I had played before it gave me the opportunity to literally tour the world. The highlight of this was a sold out show in London's Royal Albert Hall - a night I will never forget, but also getting to play extensively in the USA and Australia. As a songwriter, it was hearing one of my songs played on National Radio (BBC2) for the first time. Such a thrill, but also my first EP launch in New York City which was packed with fans from all over the states inc Canada, Brazil and even the UK
Can you share a standout moment from one of your live performances that you'll never forget?
Playing at Wembley Arena during the guitar solo at the end of 'Moon & Back' by Savage Garden and seeing my Gibson Les Paul on the giant screens above me - bigger than a house.
