Interview with Pete Devine of Pete’s Rock News and Views In London – South African Blues Rock Singer-Songwriter Ross Harding
PD: How would you describe yourself as an artist?
RH: I’m a singer-songwriter essentially, with my musical roots and style originating from classic rock, blues and grunge music. Lyrically, and thematically (in terms of my music’s subject matter) I’m interested in psychology, the human experience, horror, folklore, politics, and other subject matter that stirs me. My answers to these types of questions change quite frequently. Although I know what I like and want to do as an artist, I am still pushing boundaries and forever progressing as an artist and musician.
PD: Can you tell us briefly about your background – i.e. where you’re from, how you came to make music, etc.
RH: I grew up in the East of Johannesburg, and began playing the guitar at an early age – around age 12. I’d already become obsessed with rock and heavy metal music by then, and I knew that was going to be my life’s pursuit. I am still obsessed with making the best music I possibly can.
PD: Who and what inspires you to make music, both in terms of musical and other influences? What do you like to write about in your songs?
RH: I’m deeply interested in subject matter that provokes the mind (as I mentioned earlier). From a lyrical perspective, I write about anything from the occult, to politics, religion, folklore, psychology, and whatever gets my blood flowing and mind racing. The guitar itself continues to be an influence on me in the sense that it is the foundation of rock music. I love turning my amp up to 11 and really letting rip on the guitar, so of course blending that energy into songs, music, and performances is part of the pleasure of my work. Understanding music, how instruments work together, how a band works, and getting really fucking deep into it is what drives me to keep doing it. To attempt to perfect it.
PD: What are your aspirations as an artist?
RH: Simply put, I aspire to write the best songs I possibly can, and to share those songs with as many people all over the world as I possibly can. That takes the form of live shows, the media, and so on. I’ve always believed that the music I write can really move people, and the journey I am on is to demonstrate that, and share that with people. I do think however, that it is a work-in-progress for me. The narrative that I am building has taken time. The “meanings” behind my songs are not necessarily apparent at first glance. I see much of my musical subject matter going over people’s heads, maybe because they haven’t looked further that what’s right in front of them, and that’s fine, because I want individuals to personalise my songs. That’s actually where the true meaning exists – in your own, unique interpretation of the music. It’s just up to me to try to encourage that engagement.
PD: What is the proudest moment in your music career so far?
RH: I think it’s not necessarily a moment, but the fact that music is my life. I’ve made it my full-time career, and that was what I always dreamt of as a kid.
PD: Promoting one’s music is such a challenge these days, especially with so many new artists emerging from bedrooms
in the day of the home studio. How is that going?
RH: The trick is to keep working, push harder, stay consistent, resilience, persistence, that’s how breaks happen.
PD: And how do you book and promote your live shows and tours? Any performances coming up?
RH: I either book shows myself or through agencies, depending on the gigs and events. Plenty shows coming up! The best way is to follow my socials for all the tour updates and so on.
PD: What do you think about downloading music online? What about streaming sites like Spotify?
RH: Online music streaming is a necessary evil. The snag in the modern music industry is to figure out how to properly monetise one’s music.
PD: What song do you wish you’d written and why?
RH: What a great question! I actually mentioned this to my wife the other day. There are 2 songs I wish I’d written, both because they are super simple, yet such genius in delivery, groove, musicianship and presentation. They are Closer, by Kings Of Leon, and Bright Lights, by Gary Clark Jr.
PD: Is there anything you don’t like about the music industry, which you would change if you could?
RH: Apologies for the cliché response, but it would be great if we’d all just treat one another with more respect and dignity in general.
PD: So, what are you working on at the moment?
RH: Some POWER new songs (if I don’t say so myself). I don’t mean to be brash or arrogant, I am just so excited about the new material and can’t wait to share it with everyone!
PD: Where can we learn more about you and buy your music/merch online?
RH: All Links https://linktr.ee/rossharding
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/rosshardingofficial
Instagram https://instagram.com/rosshardingofficial
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@rosshardingofficial9301
TikTok https://tiktok.com/@razharding
Website https://rosshardingmusic.com
Ross Harding links:
Band/Artist location – Johannesburg South Africa
Website – Facebook – You Tube – Soundcloud – Merch – orcd –
Instagram – Apple – Spotify – Amazon – Deezer – LinkTree – TikTok –
Check our page for Ross Harding
