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