Country Singer-Songwriter Neeve Zahra

Manchester born musician and songwriter, Neeve is captivating audiences with her unique voice and beautiful lyrics which are beyond her years. Her new single ‘Love Me’ is out now!

Hey Neeve!! Thanks for taking part in our #MissWriter interview series for In Your Ears Music. Tell us about you – how did you start out in music, what’s your story?

I’ve always loved music, singing in the car. My Grandad encouraged me to go to open mic when I was 14 and that was really the start of my journey. I met lots of other musicians and I became integrated within the local music community collaborating with many musicians of all abilities which led to local gigs and festivals. From meeting different people, I was introduced to lots of different music and artists which inspired me in my songwriting. I was inspired by other musicians to learn the guitar to be able to accompany myself and become a better songwriter.

From going to open mic I realised I wanted to make music my career, therefore I carried it on in my further education. Now I attend LIPA sixth form college and my course is due to finish in a couple of weeks.

I gig regularly with my covers duo doing many venues including wedding and celebrations. I’ve become more confident in my songwriting and have released my own music on all the major streaming platforms. I’ve also had some amazing opportunities with support slots with my original music including supporting Chris Helme, Brian McFadden and I’m due to support Ryan Jarvis at The Deaf Institute on 21st June and The Bluetones at The Bowdon Rooms later this year.

Are there any stand out artists that influenced you when making music or that got you interested?

My musical influences to name a few are Dolly Parton, The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac however, I’m constantly discovering new music throughout all the genres and eras. I also take a lot of inspiration from local artists and my musical friends especially Drew Palmer who will be performing with me at ‘The Session” gig. Drew is also heavily involved with my original music and is a talented musician.

What do you enjoy the most about performing?

I enjoy having a platform to be able to share my music, to engage with the audience. I enjoy performing by myself acoustically as well as with a band. I love the thrill of performing. One performance which really stands out for me which I really enjoyed was joining Kyle Falconer on stage at his sell out show at St Luke’s in Glasgow.

If you could headline any festival or stadium around the world, where would it be and why?

As a country artist, I’ve always dreamed to play the Grand Ole Opry. Other dream venues of mine would include Glastonbury, Bridgewater Hall, Royal Albert Hall… there’s so many to name, every venue has its merits. A venue on my bucket list was the world famous Cavern Club, which I had the opportunity to play recently which was organised by the British Country Music Association.

Outside of music, what are your interests?

Music consumes my life, if I’m not playing it or writing it, I’m listening to it. I enjoy going to gigs and concerts. I love spending time with family and friends.

There is a growing crew of people on social media supporting the new music scene – what can we do to support you?

My ambition is to have my music heard by as many people as possible. To like and share my page, stream my music, to share up coming events would be amazing. Any support would be appreciated and I’m always grateful to anyone who joins me on my musical journey.

You’re playing The Sessions Live event in your home town in June in aid of Macmillan Cancer, what can we expect to see and hear from you?

You’ll be hearing my original music off my forthcoming EP as well as some covers from artists which have inspired me. You can expect to hear my latest single ‘Love Me’ as well as my other releases which are available on all major platforms.

What’s next for you?

I’ve got some really exciting things coming up including the release of my next single, my EP release and launch event as well as support slots and collaborations. I’m also writing new material which I hope to get back in the studio soon to record.

Links:

Have you got your tickets for ‘The Sessions’ at Grub Manchester on Saturday 18th June?

Tickets available here >>> https://www.fatsoma.com/e/unev6d97/the-sessions-in-manchester-in-aid-of-macmillan-cancer-support