By: Staff
Tom Collins releases “Halfway Boys” and it's a nuclear-fueled musical apocalypse designed to open ears, eyes and minds. It is an uplifting moment in music when a band takes a powerful stance after what feels like a long lull of speaking out in a world where so many injustices are overlooked and straight-up ignored, especially that of our youth and future. Many bands in the past have become legendary by showing both prowess and ability in this sometimes landmine-filled landscape where record labels suppress these messages for “feel good bubble gum pop”. This song is lyrically amazing. Imagine shouting and pounding your fist to “Halfway Boys” (what a fucking message there alone- all these lyrics are chopped up because they needed mention, and I can’t just list all of them, but if you listen, you will think the same) - “Halfway Boys haven't got much choice… you’re hungry, you can't sleep, surrounded by class A’s, haven't even felt a hug, an empty stomach and holes in his shoes” DAMN! This message isn’t just lyrically explosive, though, because the vocal abilities and full-throttle emotion of the lead singer are exemplary. The supporting band and the musical arrangement is a bonfire with a helicopter above it dropping gasoline on it. It's explosive and laden with screaming guitars and drums that blaze this performance. It’s really a great song and it's got a great message. It’s 100% playlist add material. Check out Tom Collins and “Halfway Boys” today.
We had a chance to catch up with Tom Collins and hear all about what's going on and we wanted to share it with you the fans.
When did you start making music? Can you tell the fans something they might not know about you that you feel is important to understanding why you create music?
I’ve always been fond of writing poems or rhymes, and being interested in words during my childhood. Singing was never a thing growing up and I hated the thought of school concerts or karaoke. It was embarrassing. When I was 17 I decided to pick up the guitar after watching my mates cover band in pubs, and thinking yeah I could give that a go. A local mate of mine who has produced a lot of my music (I owe him a lot), he has helped me on my musical journey and his early songs really spurred me on to write my own and realise that I can write songs too. I ended up with a rough demo CD from him and the rest is history. Music is unique and shapes who we are as people, gives us something to say. I’ve always found that interesting.
Can you walk us through your songwriting process and where the inspiration comes from for this latest project?
Songs fall out of the sky most of the time. They don’t always come straight away, and when they do, you just believe in it enough to work on it. ‘Halfway Boys’ was written in about an hour which talks about some of the children in areas of poverty where I live. It’s a topic that I’m sure people can relate to and understand that not all kids get the same opportunities. I was very fortunate growing up and have always had supportive parents, backing me whatever happens. I am eternally grateful for that. I guess it’s kind of sad that not everyone gets that lucky. I’m influenced a lot by the likes of Jamie Webster and Sam Fender who aren’t afraid to highlight these topics.
Where do you create your music, i.e. in a home recording studio or with a producer? How do you finalize your finished work, ie self-mixed/mastered or another source?
I do have a ‘make-shift’ home studio in my garage that I’ve kind of put together. I work with a good friend of mine Cal Roberts who has been a huge inspiration from the beginning. He has been ace at pushing me on and helping make the right steps on this journey. We’ve worked on so much music and the majority of my releases are produced by him. My latest single has been mixed by Alex Quinn who has worked with The Royston Club, CUSP and Overpass (some of my favourite bands at the moment). It was also mastered by Graeme Lynch who I know has been involved with some Blossoms records.
What was the most challenging part of bringing this project to life, from the initial idea to the final recording?
I think sometimes the production takes the longest and some of the lyrics did need a rewrite to make more sense, but it’s a process where you have to be patient. I proper believe in this one and I’m hugely proud of it.
Is any part of your music's message or purpose you feel fans or the industry has overlooked? If so, what is that element, and why is it so important to you?
I wouldn’t say they are overlooked, I just think that these topics are becoming more and more relevant and there is a huge place to talk about real hard hitting stories in modern society. There is so much scope where it will mean more to the people and that’s where hopefully some keen engagement will come in.
What has been the most motivating force in creating your music?
I think treat it like art and keep enjoying it. I’ve always said that I will keep going as long as I enjoy it.
If there was one thing you could change about the music industry, what would it be?
I think it’s such a difficult time for the industry, yes social media has made it more accessible but now every ‘influencer’ is getting a big shot at it via Tik Tok - which is great but a lot of it isn't that creative and it’s putting others in the dark. It’s so competitive at the moment and I find it easy to get lost in comparing myself with others. I’d also say show grass roots venues some more love, they are struggling to stay open and this is vital for upcoming artists like myself to showcase their music.
Please tell us about the last time you performed. Where was the show, and what was your experience?
I played with my band in Liverpool a couple of months ago and had an absolute blast. A lot of my friends came down and we smashed it. I hadn’t played in a band since 2019, so it was cool to relive that experience especially with a bigger catalogue of songs.
Was there ever a time when you emotionally felt, “I can’t do this anymore”? Can you tell us why this happened and how you found the strength to continue?
It can come and go in waves. It’s so easy to get yourself in a rut, but I’d probably say during the pandemic. I couldn’t play live and this was a crucial part of doing music for me. It killed me and live streams just aren’t the same. I wrote a lot during that time and learnt more and more about myself as a musician. Somehow, I managed to continue and I was back out playing live as soon as restrictions were lifted.
What advice would you give your younger self and why?
Make more connections as soon as you can and don’t doubt your own ability.
What is your favorite song to cover?
Talk Tonight by Oasis was one of the first songs I learnt on guitar and it holds a special place. It’s a great tune.
How do you feel about social media?
Social media is a double-edged sword really. It has so many opportunities to grow your fanbase, showcase your music and reach wider audiences as an artist. However, it holds a lot of toxicity and it also makes things more competitive in the music industry. Use it to your advantage.
If you could go on any late-night talk show, which would it be? And based on present life, what would be the topic of discussion?
I feel like you’ve probably made it if you’re on The Graham Norton Show, haha.
When you become famous, what famous band or artist would you love to tour with?
Sam Fender is a hero of mine, so much realism in his tunes. That would be some dream.
What is the most motivating thing a fan or anyone has ever told you about your music?
I don’t think there’s a particular quote per say, but I think if you can affect one person with your music then that’s pretty motivating. That’s what I’ve always wanted to do.
Check out his latest release and listen to more of Tom Collins on Spotify & YouTube.
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