Stubbs has his sights set on success

DJing and house music have made their way into the commercial music scene and with more recognition for up-and-coming artists, there’s no time like the present to follow your ambitions. Callum Stubbs focuses on catchy beats and a slick style to his tracks, something that will continue with the launch of his EP. With success in sight, 2016 is definitely going to be the year for this musician… 

By Amie Rhone. 

Callum Stubbs started playing the guitar when he was 10, which sparked his interest in music. Along with growing up listening to a variety of music, his Dad also played both the guitar and the piano, something that inspired Callum to become the musician he is now. 

His passion and enthusiasm for music is evident, from his university work to attending gigs, clubbing and finding work experience. Studying Music Production at the Leeds College of Music has helped Callum with his ambitions: “I’ve really found my feet while being at uni, the opportunities I get while up in Leeds are brilliant. It’s such a great place for live music and the course has helped me learn so much about what I want to do. 

“In the future, I hope to become a successful music producer. I see myself with a solid job; travelling, touring, making money from music and just having fun!” 

The determination that this 20-year-old has not only shows in his music, but across all of his hobbies. His love of cycling and sport is also something he grew up with, from having a competitive relationship with his brother. “He’s 7 years older than me but as we got older, we became competitive with our interests. We both run, so we’re always trying to beat each other.” But how does he fit it all in? “Cycling is something that helps to motivate me. I tend to cycle more when I’m at home from uni, to keep me busy. My inspiration for music comes to me in the evening when I’m relaxing, so cycling in the day keeps my mind occupied and gives me something to do! 

"A couple of years ago, I might have taken cycling to the next level; more competitions, pushing myself to the max and looked at finding a career from it. Now, my sole focus for a career is music, it’s what I’ve always wanted to do.” 

A career in music is something that certainly looks promising for this young musician. His eagerness to get his name ‘out there’ recently found him work experience at Radio 1Xtra Live in Leeds, an event that was broadcasted across radio, television and social media. He spent his time backstage and met the likes of Trevor Nelson, Lethal Bizzle, Katy B and Charlie Sloth: “Speaking to people who are in the music business really boosts my confidence. I feel like I’m making progress when I receive feedback from my music, advice is definitely the most important tool I could be given.” As an artist himself, the main piece of advice from Callum is to be persistent: “Never ever give up. They’ll be times that you think you can’t do it but there is always a way. Have confidence in yourself, gain contacts but most importantly, say hi. Don’t be shy, there’s no time for that.” 

Gigs are an important part of Callum’s work and are a great chance for him to get noticed. Back at home in Ashton under Hill, he is involved with two bands, Second Line and Nick Brown and the Profile. Playing at fetes, festivals and parties leaves his schedule jam-packed for most of the summer, but is 2016 set to be even busier? “I love playing gigs everywhere and we’re already taking bookings for the start of next year. I would love to start DJing a bit more in 2016, maybe a few local clubs, then moving on to bigger venues in Leeds and Birmingham. That would be really cool.” 

With the launch of his EP set to drop in late spring, 2016 is definitely looking to be the biggest year yet for Callum. Although, he really isn’t giving too much away. “They’ll be around 4 tracks on the EP. I can’t wait to release it, it will have a summery vibe to it and I’m hoping for the songs to develop throughout.” But when it comes to finding inspiration for his tracks, he knows who to look up to. “Tom Misch and Salute are two up-and-coming artists who I follow on social media and SoundCloud, I love both of their styles and they have unique signature sounds – something which I really want to create with my EP. 

"Bonobo is probably my favourite artist. He has become huge as a DJ, musician and producer and he has such a solid fanbase. He has been around for so long but is always consistent and I thoroughly admire his work ethic.” 

Callum speaks so highly of the artists that he aspires to be like, but without realising that he has all of the same qualities as they do. With so 

much going on in the new year, I have a feeling a lot is going to be changing for this young artist.

https://soundcloud.com/callum-stubbs-music

Top 5 things to do in NYC

It's been a busy week this week; back to uni, more hours at work, non-stop assignments and meeting up with friends. Although, I just can't stop thinking I wish I was back in New York.

We were there for 4 great days and it felt like time had stopped while we were there, but in reality, it flew by and there is so much more I'd have loved to see and do! 

What we did do though was amazing and so I've put together a short list of my top 5 things to do when in New York:

1. Horse and Carriage ride

As cheesy as it sounds, the Central Park horse and carriage ride was definitely one of my highlights from the trip.

The 30 minute ride took us around the lower part of Central Park between 5th and 6th avenues and there were so many iconic locations that the driver pointed out to us. It was so relaxing just to take in the business of the city while riding peacefully through the park and the Christmas spirit seemed to capture the beauty of the holiday in just one ride.

2. Top of the Rock

Heading up to the top of the Rockefeller Centre on a sunny winter's day, I'm not too sure what I was expecting. But as soon as you walk out onto the 67th floor, the views hit you and they really are breathtaking. We could see absolutely everything from up there, from the Chrysler Building to the Statue of Liberty, and it was the moment for me that I realised exactly where I was.

3. Ice Skating

Ice skating at Wollman Rink was such a funny experience. I'd never actually been ice skating before and was pretty nervous as I'm so clumsy but it was definitely better than I thought. I sort of hated it but loved it at the same time and by the end, seemed to be getting a lot better, but I really did just want to come off the ice and look at the beautiful views which surround the rink and Central Park.

4. Shopping

There is honestly no point in going to New York if you dislike shopping, but fortunately, we were in our element.

The shops are absolutely huge and it's quite overwhelming (especially at Christmas when you're trying to find a gift) but once you get stuck in, you really can't stop. I was so surprised by the sales in the shops: 40% off everything, half-price sale items, even 90% off in one of the shops! We both bought so much stuff and even now, wish we'd have picked up a few more gifts and treats while we were there.

5. Central Park

I absolutely loved Central Park and it's ability to make you think you're in a completely different place.

It was especially lovely going just before Christmas with orange leaves fallen and the skyline evident through the bare trees. We saw so many iconic spots including the lake and boathouse, the Alice in Wonderland statue and the zoo. 

I'd love to go back in the summer time and cycle around Central Park, making our way further up to explore Strawberry Fields and much more of the park.