Interview with Sam McLaughlin

Giving rising talent airtime is a Record Weekly mainstay. We caught up with Sam McLaughlin to see how 2021’s shaping up for him and his new tunes.

RECORD WEEKLY’S INTERVIEW WITH SAM MCLAUGHLIN

Hiya Sam, how are you doing?

It’s been very busy lately while trying to balance uni, social life, music and part-time jobs, but everything seems to be okay now, thanks!

How have your latest releases been received?

My latest release ‘Iced coffee at midnight’ has had an amazing response. I set myself three targets: 1) to be played on BBC Introducing, 2) 10,000 streams across the EP, 3) gain momentum for gigs this summer. And all three were completed, so I’m ecstatic and looking forward to the gigs!

What’s your general mood regarding the restrictions easing totally?

My honest opinion is let people live their lives now. Especially as most of the vulnerable have had their double jabs. I’m nearly 20 now, this pandemic started when I was barely 18, put it that way…

Are you keeping up with any lockdown hobbies that you particularly enjoyed?

I started skateboarding in lockdown and it is such a vibe. Also, a bit of a strange one, but I started playing chess again, which is surprisingly quite relaxing.

You mentioned a podcast to me a little while ago — have you made any progress with that?

The podcast fell through, sadly, due to not having enough time/commitment.

Which albums are you enjoying most at the moment?

easy life’s new record, ‘life’s a beach’.

Have you got any upcoming gigs penned in or new releases on the horizon?

The gig I’m most looking forward to is on 20th August in Northwich (my hometown) at The Salty Dog, playing alongside The Peach Fuzz. However, with my band, The Personas, we have a support slot at Manchester’s Deaf Institute on 31st July, which will be monumental!