Former Verulam School student Oli Simpson piqued the music industry’s interest with his first single Smoke Drink and Fight, which was discovered by BBC Introducing in 2011. The 22-year-old from St Albans has just released his second single, Rise, and is working on a five-track EP due for release in June. He speaks to Hannah Worrall about his music, supporting Nelly Furtado and growing up in the Middle East.

What’s the story behind your single Rise?

It’s an uplifting, soulful, alternative ballad. It’s about rising above adversity and I guess confronting others’ doubts. I composed, sang and produced the song myself. My sound is a mixture of soul, pop and alternative blues.

How did you get into music?

I’ve always been around good music. My dad was a big influence, he always used to play me a wide variety of music from Motown to classical and everything in between. At school I was part of the choir and I lived in the Middle East for a bit with my family. It was there that I honed my talents as a singer, winning competitions and gaining performance experience.

I knew from a very early age I was never going to have a pop voice, to my disappointment. I think when I was younger I was unsure how to use my voice. It took me experimenting with a wide array of music genres, to really find my sound. 

Which musicians have inspired you?

I like Michael Jackson, the whole Motown vibe – funk, Sam Cooke, Ray Charles, Amy Winehouse, Adele, Tom Waits, Peter Gabriel and James Brown. I’m drawn to the rawness and emotion of their sound.

What's the process behind your songwriting?

It’s very spontaneous and I have to be feeling in the moment. It’s usually a very quick process as I’m fully engaged in the song writing. I guess I write about emotions mostly and how I’m feeling on a certain day. My songs come from my own experiences – they are an outlet and a way for me to express myself. When I sing I feel happy. It’s fun, relaxing. When other people like your singing there’s no better feeling – it’s a connection with other people that you can’t describe.

How does it feel to be attracting attention from BBC Introducing?

It’s amazing to gain support from an institution like the BBC because it validates my work. The platform they provide to unsigned artists is unrivalled and I’m very appreciative.

What was it like supporting Nelly Furtado?

Supporting Nelly Furtado was great. To be honest, it was a bit of a whirlwind. I was with a band, this was when I lived in the UAE, and we got invited to support her at the Abu Dhabi Formula One concert.

Where do you like to hang out?

I don’t take myself too seriously and I enjoy going to small venue gigs and chilling in my local with my friends – most of whom I’ve known since school. I like eating good food and I like going to football matches with my Dad and Uncle - we support Birmingham City.

What do your family and friends think of what you're doing?

My family is proud of me and is really supportive. I’m single at the moment, but my friends, most of whom I’ve known since childhood, are very supportive and happy for me. 

Who’s your favourite musician at the moment, and why?

Hozier because he’s a great songwriter; Sam Smith because he has a great voice and Mark Ronson because he is one of the best producers in modern times.

What do you think of the St Albans music scene?

I think the music scene here is developing. It would be great to see more artists originating from St Albans. The support I have received from the music community in St Albans has been incredible.

What are your ambitions for the future?

My ambitions for the future are very clear cut. I want to capitalise on the amazing support I have gained in Hertfordshire and continue to progress as an artist and performer. My single Rise has now been added to the BBC Introducing Three Counties playlist and I would obviously love it if it makes Radio 1. 

Oli Simpson’s single Rise is available to buy from iTunes and to stream on Spotify. Details: olisimpsonworld.com