Interview: Ian Ventress
Ian Ventress released his debut single "Mama" late last year and is currently working on his debut album. We spoke to this prolific songwriter about his music, awards and future plans.
For those who haven't heard of you before, tell us a bit about yourself and how you started making music?
I have for a long time been interested in writing poems and written poems both serious and humorous. However, my background is in the building trade, I have a few successful businesses. Just over a year ago with no musical background whatsoever, I started writing songs and wrote about 40 songs very quickly.
You released your debut single "Mama" last year, how would you describe it?
My idea for this track was I wanted an African / Gospel / Rap feel to the track. I wanted to take the listener back to a time in their lives using the endearing lyrics that we can all relate to, even though as little ones we may not remember all the the happy times within the lyrics of "Mama" but all mothers will relate to these words. I am a very visual writer and like to tell stories as you will hear as you listen to the lyrics of "Mama" and how this particular story unfolds throughout the track.
Who in the music industry would you most like to work with?
Without a doubt I'd like to work with Celine Dion. To me she is one of the most gifted vocalists on the planet. Every word she sings is a structured masterpiece in itself. She has an incredible vocal and her interpretation, feeling and vocal delivery is perfect.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
As I've previously said I've got no musical experience, I've never sang (until recently) or played an instrument, but as I unpack themes and issues when writing lyrics, I can hear in my mind what sound, feel & instrumentation I want for each individual track. As I've said I have written poems, so writing a song is a very similar format for me. My music fits into various styles, so there is no set genre. Song styles produced so far are, Indie, RnB, Reggae, Dance, Gospel & Rap.
How would you define success in your career?
I think it's important that you enjoy what you are doing and that you have skills and talents in that area of work you choose to spend your life working on. My success in the music industry is very new to me and has been just over a year since I start in music. I was awarded with the Outstanding Achievement award from Ubeat TV last year & last month "Mama" got to final stages of the Grammy’s "Record of the Year" category. Up to the present day with a new single release of a Christmas Reggae version of "Silent Night" which at the minute is No1 in the Louder Than The Music Gospel Chart. This tack is me singing a duet with the talented Vivienne Neville.
What is your favourite album of all time?
Celine Dion "The Essential"
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your mp3 player. What track is it?
Last track would be "My heart will go on" Celine Dion or Help from the Beatles haha.
What does the next year hold for Ian Ventress?
Working on my debut album for release next year in 2018.
