David Sneddon Bio

DAVID SNEDDON  _ musician, singer, songwriter, ...
He is a writer of timeless and unique songs. His songs are songs within songs: they express raw emotions, wistful-toned, thought provoking introspection. There is something very poignant and heart-breakingly real in David's voice. He can soar and whisper, turn ballads into blues and transcend genre. His music is immediately accessible, full of dramatic shades of light and dark, with soulful highs and dreamy long late nights. 
David draws on a range of influences for his music from the Beatles, Sinatra to Damien Rice, John Mayer, Richard Ashcroft and Bob Dylan. And you can hear the effect on the range and tone of his vocals and in his songs. David, piano and his voice moves with soul and energy. At times he throws his head back and his playing is as mesmerising as his voice and songs.  David's music draws inspiration from 60s melodic pop, but with a very unique voice.

I'd Rather Busk on the Streets than Still be Living the Lie - David reveals why he turned his back on career as a pop star.' ..he has had more chart success than any other reality show graduate. To date, David has scored four No.1s - his own plus three foreign chart-toppers. ‘ Daily Record, June 2007 IT'S BEEN to the industry's benefit that the Paisley lad chose music over his other passion, football. Now 29, the winner of the first BBC series of Fame Academy in 2002 has gone on to success not only as a singer, but perhaps more notably, as a songwriter for many top names.” Scotsman, Dec 2007 

  'melody-driven singer/songwriter. ' David's direct, clear and deeply expressive voice.'
David writes with a sincere vulnerability, beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics.
His songs express...‘deeply held emotions that capture clear and moving images; with his emotional piano and his honest, expressive vocals and words.
He is taking it back to basics with no PR or runners in sight… only himself, his piano and a few songs." David as intelligent, insightful artist - profound, releasing, multi-layered, his songs always surprise. His music has a subtle intensity - as if held back while also very deep. A purity of emotion.

DAVID SNEDDON is a Scottish musician and singer-songwriter who works in London.
David has performed on television, radio and theatre. He won the first BBC series of Fame Academy in 2002. He released his single 'Stop Living the Lie'" in January 2003 which was a No 1 hit single selling over 250,000 copies, and the 12th highest selling single of the year. "Seven Years - Ten Weeks" Sneddon's album released in April 2003 four months after he won the show and containing his own compositions, entered the UK Albums Chart at No 5. He also had three further UK hit singles with his compositions - "Dont' Let Go" No 3, "Best of Order" No 19 and "Baby Get Higher' No 39 - which has since been a hit on the dance floor for Almighty Records and a singles chart hit for Dutch singer VanVelzen. He has written for other artists, and co-wrote “The Message” for UK soul artist Nate James. He is signed to major music publisher Sony ATV Music Publishing as a songwriter, and describes his music as 'melody-driven'. He has been working with several high profile, as well as highly-anticipated emerging artists in 2009 and 2010, with some exciting releases expected in the US and UK. In 2010 David travelled with James Mein to LA for his writing work.

Sneddon works with the UK based Songwriting and Music Production team "The Nexus" and has been building a strong reputation as a Songwriter the past years.
The Nexus" work on major label projects across the UK, Europe and US. The Nexus also specialise in the discovery of new talent, assisting in their development and have successfully taken several artists from independent to Major Label status.
In the summer of 2011 David became engaged to his long-term girlfriend, who works in television in London.

In June 2011 it was revealed in the press that Sneddon is the co-writer behind three songs on the synthpop duo Hurts 2010 debut album Happiness - "Illuminated", "Silver Lining" and "Blood Tears and Gold." Sneddon has also co-written songs for 2010 X Factor (UK) winner Matt Cardle's debut album "Letters" which was released in October 2011 and charted at No.2 on the UK Albums Chart.
2011 has been a highly successful one for David’s writing career. He has written with well respected Eg White and many other top songwriters. I hope 2012 brings even more successes for David. In July 2011 David Sneddon was spotted backstage at HURTS gig Somerset House! I guess the 'hiding' has officially stopped now!??

January 2012 - David Sneddon and The Nexus have written a song 'National Anthem' for Lana Del Rey's forthcoming debut album 'Born To Die', predicted for chart success. This is the major-label debut by American singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey set for release on January 30, 2012 through Interscope Records and Straner Records.
Del Rey's first single from the album, "Video Games", has received huge interest on YouTube and brought about the singer's popularity.

Songwriting. Since 2003 David has worked with James Mein in their London studio discovering, producing and writing with new talent. He has always been very positive about his writing career going well, which he clearly loves. David signed with Sony Publishing and has written for labels Decca Records, Universal and Syco, Simon Cowell’s label.
"This deal has been in the pipeline for a year…we wanted to wait for the right deal. I don’t think there has been another reality TV winner who took a back step to this side of the industry but I like being able to get on with my work. We had to prove ourselves...and so that’s why we did a lot of development work." 

Many artists seek to ‘entertain’ – David seeks ‘musical credibility’, a much harder goal to attain but a much more worthwhile goal also. His music helps me through, stops time, offers new horizons.
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Reflections....
I first saw David live at the fA concert SECC Glasgow and a week later at the Garage. I had no idea then that it would be many months before I saw him perform in Glasgow again. He had been on a punishing schedule of radio and tv for barely 3 months and in between trying to write and record his debut album! I could sense the pressures on him. And unlike most winners who relied on a team of writers to produce and write the album, David was relying on himself and on bringing in Elton's band for the weeks recording in March. He brought down his Scottish band mate John Kielty to write with him, and John shared his prize penthouse flat. Still the album was ready for release that April 28th just a week after the tour. David did gigs in Scotland over one day starting in Aberdeen and finishing at the Garage in the evening.
I expect it has not been an easy ride for David - or for his fans for that matter! After all the expectations of the shows, the highs of the chart successes and playing the SECC Glasgow and the Scottish tour for his album, he was never happy with the popstar role thrust on him, but he did love all the music side - the writing and recording, which he has a natural talent for. I heard David sing a very beautiful song acoustically on the radio Clyde One in April 2003, called 'Without You' and a favourite song with many fans. He was backed by John Kielty on guitar and I've believed in David's talents ever since then, and I never understood why this song was not released as a single.
After winning FA in late 2002, he found himself in the strange situation of the 'popstar treadmill'. His aim had been to make contacts in London, so he was pleased to secure a publishing deal and began working as a songwriter in late 2003. It is a very unusual story! Many might wonder - why would a serious musician have entered a reality tv talent show? And while fA was billed as being for songwriting, it turned into the usual karoke format that these shows tend to use. There are many things I might say, and trying to step back from it all ( which isn't easy) it is really quite an unusual story. He had successes performing in theatre and musicals, presented a tv show and played with bands, entered and won a UK tv show, had hit records, decided to quit the performing stage and pursue a songwriting career where he has had success writing for emerging new talent. Many questions surround (why?) even now 7 years later. WHY did he quit so dramatically being a popstar? Was he upset by the fame game as he has said and the pressures surrounding the celebrity circus - as appears to be effecting Susan Boyle? The fA show had a weak image - and image is everything, in a media driven by fast soundbites. And why was he marketed to older teenagers when this was not the show's target audience..

Impressions. This young-looking, fresh-faced 31 year old has handsome boyish good looks. He is funny, confident, extremely charming and likable, a dreamer. He is charismatic yet self-effacing, direct and determined, down-to earth even humble about his obvious musical talents, and deeply caring. He is meanwhile full of contradictions. He can be stubborn and opinionated and enjoys to speak his mind, and at the same time he can be strongly empathetic and sociable. He can also be evasive, elusive, and enigmatic at times....
The Showman and Successes. When I first encountered David on tv in 2002, he appeared confident and fired with energetic enthusiasms, and ready to grab hold of opportunities freely with both hands. After all the euphoria of winning and the challenges of the show - he was disillusioned by the experiences of 2003, while at the same time offered exciting opportunities. David did a university tour, TV shows, and he supported an artist whom he learned piano from and one of his all time musical heroes, Elton John in Hull which was a highlight of the year for him. However all this appeared to mean little in a music industry geared so strongly to image, and with the Fame Academy show having such a poor one. In fact the shows short-term premise was that they were offering fame for only a year - with a penthouse flat, a car and a recording deal - after which it would all be taken away like some pop star Cinderella. This all suggested that they were not searching for an artist with any musical ability - while David with his styled hair and smart jackets looked so much the young pop star then, yet his strong piano melodies expressed a creative talent. I looked at David's promotions in 2003 after he won, and thought how off message and weak it all was, and I believed he deserved better. He had played lead roles in musicals at Pace Drama, presented a Tv show and sang with the Martians band. A self-taught musician he had been playing piano and writing songs for many years.

Origins:  Sneddon enjoyed performing in musicals from a young age, and when his parents bought him a piano he discovered he loved writing songs, and taught himself to play. David was inspired by his father’s record collection of The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Van Morrison and Elton John, and he cites the Beatles as a huge influence. He studied music at school, won several talent competitions and played lead roles in musicals both at school and at PACE Youth drama. "The person who has inspired me the most is Elton John. I love the Beatles, but as I was growing up, I always wanted to play the piano like him. I've never had any lessons, so he has been my only teacher.".........?" After attending the University of Paisley for a year, where he met Danny Dyer, with whom he forged a close personal relationship, Sneddon decided to pursue a career in music. He was offered several opportunities – a musical in London, and a part in a young boy band called Arena. He performed in musicals and sang with bands in Scotland for several years. He also presented 'Inside Out' a children's show on Scottish TV. While acting in Romeo and Juliet he met John Kielty - David was Romeo and John was acting Juliet's father. The Martians busked and did shows during the Edinburgh Festival. Sneddon was performing with The Martians in 2002 when he decided to enter the BBC's first series of Fame Academy. After David won the show he brought John down to London to co-write his debut album and go on tour with him. Sneddon also played in the indie-rock band The Sham with John Kielty in 2004 and 2005. Since then The Martians won the Highland Quest for a new musical in 2006 - The Sundowe was produced by Cameron Mackintosh and toured the Scottish Highlands in early 2007.

Fame Academy. Sneddon was not originally selected to enter the Fame Academy House (Witanhurst House Highgate London) in the summer of 2020, but he was drafted in as a replacement when one contestant withdrew from the TV show due to illness. The 12 students were coached by music and dance teachers. David became popular on the 12 week show and went on to win the public vote and being voted the overall winner. He won the finals of the show performing " Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me" by Elton John, “ I Don't Want to Talk About It" by Danny Whitten, and his own composition "Stop Living The Lie". He won the public vote with approximately 3.5 million votes in December 2002. 
Album. A talented musician and songwriter, the title of Sneddon's debut album -"Seven Years - Ten Weeks" - was a reference to his years struggling to get his music heard, and the ten weeks on the Fame Academy show. David had been a prolific writer on the show and the label took the rare step for a young artist of allowing him put out self-written and co-written songs for his singles and on his debut album. The album contains all original compositions written by Sneddon, two co-writes with Scott MacAlister and four songs co-written with Martians member John Kielty. David wrote songs about his seven years after leaving university when he performed with bands, and on stage in Scotland - and about his ten weeks singing live on the BBC television series. It contains his three chart singles "Stop Living the Lie", "Don't Let Go" and "Best of Order." The piano-driven ballads and rocky numbers drew influences from Elton John and Bon Jovi, while on tracks such as "Don't Let Go" "Without You" and" All My Life" Sneddon showed his own unique voice. With David on piano, he was backed by Elton John's band. The album was produced by Hugh Padgham who produced Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel in the 80s. Mercury's faith in Sneddon was rewarded when the first single, "Stop Living The Lie", went straight No 1 UK charts in January 2003. His second single "Don't Let Go" reached No 3. Sneddon's album, was released in April 2003, four months after he won the show, and entered the Uk album chart at No. 5. He was given all of 3 months to write, rehearse and record original material for his debut album, a process that normally takes years. By comparison now in 2010 the X Factor winners release their debut album during the next year series when they are able to jog the public's memories - and are given a year to work with co-writers and producers for an album of original material.
David is the only winner of a reality TV show to have a number one hit single with a self-composed song, without working with any co-writers.
Sneddon signed an exclusive publishing deal as a songwriter with Universal Music Group in October 2003. David's main focus has always been his songwriting. He said "I've loved all the music side of it, it's everything I hoped it would be - the recording, the studio, writing, but the other stuff..........?"
Performing. In 2004 David was songwriting in London. He formed an indie-rock band The Sham with John Kielty in 2004 and 2005. They played gigs in London, and Scotland and headlined at the Hogmanay Celebrations in Aberdeen. The Sham included Jay Mein(bass), Ed Carlile(drums), Si Jones(guitar), Jake Gosling(keys) and John Kielty (guitar). In 2006 Sneddon started writing and recording for a new solo album. In July he showcased his songs in a series of intimate, acoustic gigs with John Kielty on guitar in London, Essex and Scotland. In an interview for FPR Radio Oct 2006, he said "It's not what people are expecting, I’m trying something a bit different. The feedback, from people who know me from the show, on the new songs has been incredible." From July 2006 to Oct 2007 David performed gigs mostly in London at the Bedford, the Regal Room, The Cobden and the Troubadour venues. When Kielty moved to America in late 2006, David brought in David Mullins as his backing guitarist. He also presented a radio sports show on BBC radio in June 2007. David did a few gigs in Scotland over this time - the Oran Mor, Dunstaffstage, the Jazz Bar and the Kilsyth festival.
*TOP SELLING NO 1 "White Noise" EP - In 2007 David released a 5-track EP his first recorded work in years, which has topped the indiestore chart over from 2007 to 2010.  
The EP included songs "White Noise", "Time", "Lady Lullaby", "One Old Soul", "Wish You Well". The EP sold well and received good reviews. It topped the Indie charts for 4 months – at No.1 for over a month.  In Jan 2008 the ‘White Noise’ Ep returned to the chart and was in the No 1 slot August, Sept , Nov 2008.  March - Aug 2009 the EP was no 1. And again July 2010.

**In 2008 - 2010 David focused exclusively on his songwriting career, while he also performed a few occasional gigs in London over this time. He signed in 2009 with new management and to major publisher Sony/ATV in July 2009, as a songwriter. He has been working with several high profile, as well as highly-anticipated emerging artists in 2009 and 2010. In 2010 David travelled with James Mein to LA for his writing work.  
Songwriting. Since 2003 David has worked with James Mein in their London studio discovering, producing and writing with new talent. He has always been very positive about his writing career going well, which he clearly loves.
He has written for other artists, including the international hit “The Message” for UK soul artist Nate James, and "Baby Get Higher" which was a success hit on the dance floor for Almighty Records and a singles chart hit for Dutch singer Van Velzen. He wrote with Julian Perretta who signed with Sony and toured with Mark Ronson. In 2009, David signed a new deal with major publisher Sony ATV Music Publishing and has written for labels Decca Records, Universal and Syco, Simon Cowell’s label. "This deal has been in the pipeline for a year…we wanted to wait for the right deal. I don’t think there has been another reality TV winner who took a back step to this side of the industry but I like being able to get on with my work. We had to prove ourselves...and so that’s why we did a lot of development work."
March 2011 (C)

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I am so happy for him as I know that success for his writing is his dream. Sometimes we get stuck in a box not of our own making, and altering perceptions of us are nearly impossible - hopefully they can be changed..... one day.  
I will always believe that David's songs are superior. I've written many gig reports (which are posted on the site) and it is hard to explain in words what David's live gigs have meant to his fans, and I believe my photo's express this far better. For me his music and voice, and also his passions and belief, have inspired. I don't really understand a lot of it all, and I'm sure many have wondered about fans waiting patiently for so long, and it really has not been easy to keep faith at times. Perhaps its just the hope of new songs - and that makes me realise how much music means to people. Learning about David the artist has opened new doors - and I hope there are more still to open! Over these years I've listened to David's music - both recorded and live gigs. He has a beautiful quality to his voice - moving yet restrained, soaring yet subtle and deep. His voice moves me like no other singer, and I believe in his talents - and that's why I travelled to the gigs.
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:SONGWRITING::
David has been writing since his parents bought him a piano in his early teens and being inspired by songs such as Elton's 'Rocket Man' and the Beatles 'Ticket To Ride' and 'Let it Be.' In the 80s he was influenced by Scottish bands such as Travis and Wet Wet Wet, who he saw live at Glasgow's SECC.
His musical journey has taken him from the pop of Elton and Robbie, the rock of the Killers and Franz Ferdinand, to singer songwriters such as Richard Ashcroft, John Mayer and Dylan. Now working in London his taste and ear for music have become more discerning and sophisticated. David had written successfully for some top talent.

  ..songwriter, musician..
David enjoys his songwriting and working with other artists;
it is a challenging and rewarding career and helps David develop his music. He collaborates with other artists for their albums with his work for Universal Music.    
:"Baby Get Higher" Van Velzen::
In October 2003 David’s single "Baby Get Higher" made the UK Singles Chart, and this song has subsequently achieved further chart success. In November 2003 the dance label Almighty Records produced a remix, which proved to be hit on the dance floor. The label recorded a version featuring Belle Lawrence, which has been included on several dance compilation albums. In November 2006 this song was also a Singles chart hit for Dutch artist Van Velzen. David had several songs picked up by other artists worldwide in 2006.
:"The Message" Nate James::
Sneddon co-wrote the international hit “The Message” for UK soul artist Nate James which was released as a single in the UK in 2005, and was also a track on Nate’s debut album “Set The Tone”. It charted in Italy and Japan in 2006. Nate James is now on the third album, with considerable success and hits on the worldwide stage. He keeps his music closely to the classic soul sound of Motown. Nate headlined to 120,000 at the famous Montreal Jazz festival July 4 2008 - ‘the Message’ (Top 5 Europe) has been released in Canada (No 5).

::: LIVE GIGS::
David enjoys live performing. In July 2006 David performed intimate acoustic gigs with John Kielty, and in 2007 with guitarist David Mullins.
(John moved to San Francisco in January 2007 to continue his acting and writing career. In July 2006 John, who along with brothers James & Gerry -The Martians, won the Highland Quest for a new musical with "The Sundowe". The musical was produced by Cameron Mackintosh, and premiered at Eden Court Inverness before touring the Highlands early 2008.
 'I love being a songwriter. Tonight however, I play the Troubadour with MY songs to an intimate crowd and get a bigger buzz!!! I love these gigs I'm playing at the moment.' (David's myspace blog) "I’m really looking forward to the gigs – just piano and acoustic guitar and some new songs. 2008 David wrote new songs with guitarist David Mullins. Check YouTube - "Scars", "No One", "My Plan" and "Little Houses". He plays occasional acoustic gigs.

David is playing with a renewed energy and rawness his heartfelt songs... He keeps it real and true to who he is as an artist. His songs are full of clear images, with his emotionally gripping voice singing the wonderful melodies he is so gifted at writing.  'It’s not what people are expecting, I’m trying something a bit different. The feedback, from people who know me from the show, on the new songs has been incredible.'' FPR Radio Oct 2006.

*VENUES DAVID HAS PERFORMED AT - The Regal Rooms, The Bedford, The Jazz Bar Edinburgh, Kilsyth Festival, The Boardwalk, Jericho Tavern Oxford, The Cobden, The Troubadour, The Betsey, The Hobbit, The Boathouse, The Piazza, Covent Garden, The Fleece and Firkin, The Bull & Gate, Highbarn, Oran Mor, Glasgow.

Story so far...
PACE drama shows, theatre & musicals, TV presenting, Bands.
2002 - The Martians band. David WINS Fame Academy Dec 2002.
2003 - A No 1 Hit Single. A debut No 5 UK chart album of his own songs, "Seven Years Ten Weeks" as well as 3 chart topping singles.
Gigs; TV; Radio; Presenting; Uni Tour & Roadshows; Supported Elton John & Bryan Adams
2004-2005: Sham band gigs London & Scotland
2006 -2008: Acoustic Gigs with guitarists John Kielty & David Mullins. Songwriting in London
2008 - 2012: David focused on his songwriting work with James Mein, he played occasional gigs in London.

::2009
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*May 2009 David attended the 'Prince’s Trust Black and White Ball' The Hilton, City Centre, Glasgow. David rode a pedicar to the ball with Miss Earth Scotland. David looked smart in a kilt and performed at the ball. Press expected in No 1, Scottish Field and OK.
* David now has new management for his songwriting work.

July 7th 2009 David performed at the Regal Rooms London. He was being a judge for a singer songwriter night and performed after. No idea what he sang – perhaps he can manage time for a gig for his fans? Apparently some fans knew about this gig (?) We've not heard David do a gig for over 9 months now and it would be wonderful to hear him sing.
I heard that David sang - Rocket Man and White noise.

In 2009, David signed a new deal with major publisher Sony ATV Music Publishing and will be writing for Will Young’s new album and labels Decca Records, Universal and Syco, which is Simon Cowell’s label.

David's ‘White Noise’ Ep continues at NO 1 indiestore chart in 2009 - From Jan 2008 to Dec 2009.  (No 1 Aug, Sept& Nov 2008)

He writes with multi-talented producer and writer James Bauer Mein.
OIn Oct 2009 David announced a GIG - Shuga Bhudda @ Regal Room Gig, Jan 28th 2010, for ‘One Night Only’ as he works exclusively as a writer David will not be gigging again for a while. With special guests...  Sadly he had to cancel this event due to writing commitments.

::2008:
======
:Jan 2008 David's ‘WHITE NOISE’ EP re-entered the Indiestore charts, exactly a year after it was released! Check out the 5 engrossing songs and acoustic vocals - David recorded the EP in one live take. They are songs of the joy of love, with insightful lyrics and gripping piano playing.

His number one hit 'STOP LIVING THE LIE' on YouTube in their charts - with over 10,000 views in 3 months.  David has been writing for Nate James's third album. Nate performed on Jools Holland BBC2 Tv show Feb 8th.

**Feb 2008 'White Noise' EP is NO 1 INDIESTORE CHARTS!
The EP has been at the top of the CHART from January - July 2008. 

:LIVE GIGS!-
David returned to gigs in March 2008, after breaking his left wrist playing football at Christmas, at the Regal Rooms Hammersmith London.

A night of acoustic magic'
May 2008 - David is taking a break from his writing to gig and write some new songs. He has posted 2 new songs on his myspace. No One and Northern Lights - beautiful songs, beautifully sung, with a true acoustic feel.
David announced a week of London GIGS! From April 30th to May 13th - Gardening Club, The Bedford, Regal Rooms, The Cobden, Soho Revue Bar.
June 2008. David played gigs at the Troubadour, Bedford, Water Rats and the Halo Bar London.

Songwriting: David has been writing with Nate James. Nate is headlined at the famous Montreal Jazz festival July 4 2008, where he is touring and ‘the Message’ (Top 5 Europe), co–written with David, is to be released in Canada.

The ‘White Noise’ Ep returned to the Indiestore chart in 2008 - January to December 2008.  And No 1 Indiestore chart August, Sept and November 2008. 

In October David performed a set of 7 songs at the Scotcare gig the Bedford London. He sang a top cover version of Deacon Blues 'Dignity' in the vote for a new Scottish song - and also treated us to 'Without You' live from his 2003 'Seven Years Ten Weeks' album.

::2007:
=====
January 2007 - *David released a 5-track EP called "White Noise" in January 2007. White Noise’ Ep topped the Indie charts for 3 months – No.1 for several weeks, then staying at No. 3 for another month. The EP returned to the chart in 2008. TRACKS: White Noise, Time, Lady Lullaby, One Old Soul & Wish You Well.

2007 was a busy year for David with his music. He has been working hard writing, rehearsing, recording and playing live gigs. He loves his writing job; the songwriting is a rewarding career and helps David develop his craft. He collaborates with other artists for their albums with his work for Universal Music. In 2007 he has been writing for up-and-coming soul singer Julian Perretta’s Album - three of David’s songs on the forthcoming album are ‘Alone’ ‘Words To Love You’ and ’Touchdown’. He writes melodic piano-based well crafted pop tunes. He has had several big hits around the world and writes for many top names in the music industry.  

::January 2007 -Acoustic Tour
with singer-songwriters Chris Townsend & Jake Hook in Bristol, Oxford, Cambridge & London.
March 2007: FM 'Cash For Kids' Oban Scotland, Argyllshire Gathering Halls Gala Auction/Dinner Dance. cashforkids@uwclub.net 07831 883366.
Oban presenter Neil MacKay - ‘haste ye back ....what a belter!, the atmosphere can only be described as electric'
May 2007: David played 4 acoustic gigs, backed by David Mullins on guitar - at the Boardwalk Sheffield, the Regal Rooms in Hammersmith, the Bedford and the famous Troubadour Earls Court, where David performed without piano. He was intense at the mic and introduced 2 new songs with a different energy to them - ‘Don’t Ask Why’ and ‘Salt Water.’

:June 16 - July 14 2007: David hosted an all-sports show 'KEEP OFF THE GRASS' on BBC Radio Scotland at 12.30 on Saturday afternoons during the football closed season. David is a keen Rangers FC supporter. He is a lot of fun on the radio.... and he knows his football!
He played 'Live at the Lake' 18th Aug, Cleethorpes Boating Lake Paddock, Cleethorpes and Kilsyth International Carnival popularly known as KIC) at the Colzium on the 12th August.

::JAZZ BAR EDINBURGH: (23,24,25th August 2007) -
Fans were buzzing after David’s 3 sold Acoustic sessions at the Edinburgh festival Fringe, at the Jazz Bar, Chambers St to excellent reviews. He was back performing with best mate and writing partner John Kielty. The audience was of every age range and responded enthusiastically.  'My first time playing the Edinburgh Festival in 5 years!'
Songs included One Old, Wish You Well, Time, Lady Lullaby, Insomnia, a great cover of Rocket Man, and David’s hit "Stop Living The Lie" - which thrilled fans, many of whom had travelled far to hear him perform live. David also joined the Martians for 2 songs on the High Street before his Saturday gig.

THE REGAL ROOMS Oct 2007 ; David played 3 new songs - ‘The Bricks Move On’, ‘Rocket Ship’ and ‘Colder Blue.’ ‘ David links it home and connects to the heart.’ The new songs are lighter in feel yet with more depth.
He also backed Julian Perretta on piano for 2 songs - 'Touchdown' & 'Alone.'
David asked Jay about how they might record the songs and is taking a break from gigs for a while.

The gigs have had responsive audiences and the songs have been well received. He shows now a maturity of style with insightful and challenging songs.

He writes songs with sincere quality.  David’s music is truthful and tender, profoundly aware of the magic and the miraculous – of the joys and the sadness of love. He has reached a place where he seems grounded and to have a sense of clear direction with his music. He was destined to be a songwriter and to play intimate venue gigs. David decided bravely not to be a Re-run or a Safe-bet, but to be an original.  
(updated March 2008)
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*source INTERVIEW WITH DAVID ON RADIO PAISLEY (FDR) October 2006
David grew up in Paisley, near Glasgow Scotland. At Primary school a teacher suggested a Youth drama group and it was one of the best experiences and gave him confidence to perform. At the age of thirteen he started playing piano and writing songs. He was looking for direction and was open to new influences and searching for that lucky break wherever it might happen to come. He took the gamble of a TV talent show as it was advertised as being about songwriting, after sending off demos and gigging for years. It was the best experience and changed his life. At the time he was with a band the Martians with John Kietly, who are very good and still around today. He was beginning to wonder how he could get into the music business, and he hoped the show might get him down to London to make contacts, and perhaps even a Publishing deal.
The show wasn’t exactly what he expected with the focus on performing pop covers. David performed well though, and went on to win the show, much to his surprise! His Label rather than offering the chance to develop as an artist, wanted to control his image and sound. David had two big hit singles and a hit album, but early on he knew that the 'Bubble gum world of pop' wasn’t for him.  He had some great times on the show, and made good friends, and the Fame Academy tour was a huge success, in fact the biggest tour of its kind. David supported Elton John in Hull, and enjoyed doing Top of the Pops and having the number one single, which he is unbelievably proud of now. Universal offered him a Publishing deal, which was a good opportunity to continue there without having to release any singles, and to be able to write the kind of songs that he wanted to write and to develop as an artist.
David has worked as a songwriter since joining Universal Music in October 2003.
He has written for - soul singer Nate James and new talent such as the 18 yr old Julian Perretta. It has really paid off with his writing taking off in a big way recently, and a string of hits worldwide. Because of his experience he helps these artists with melodies and hooks. But when he is writing, some of the songs are more personal and he keeps them for himself to sing. David is out doing gigs again in London with new backing guitarist David Mullins, and has an EP coming out soon which will be released on the Indie Store. He will possibly release a new album (?) He wants to make a career as a singer songwriter alongside his writing. David has had good Scottish press about his songwriting success.
 ( FPR Radio Interview Oct 2006)
 ‘Really good press in the Record, surprising but nice. Some media have a grain of truth, some no truth. It was good they had focused on my song writing.’
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::2006
=====
In July 2006 David did his first solo gig at the Bedford. With his keyboard centre stage he did a strong performance which was shown on the webcam.  He announced he is recording an EP in October.

GIGS 2006 with John Kielty, July & August - at The Bedford, the Ginglik, Canary Wharf, The High Barn Essex, Dunstaffnage Music festival Oban, Oran Mor Glasgow, Johnstone Paisley, the Cobden Club, and the Troubadour.

MYSPACE - In March 2006 David put himself out there on Myspace, describing his music as 'acoustic indie pop' feel to it..., but most importantly he writes strong melodic songs.  He is playing with a renewed energy and rawness his heartfelt songs, that bring together contemporary influences and his Scottish roots. Meanwhile David continued his day job of songwriting for other artists.

JOHN KIELTY- At the Troubadour gig in November David announced that John Kielty was off to America - after the gig David simply said, ‘Thanks John.’ 
John has entertained & inspired us the past years, and I wish him every success.
In 2005 John Kielty and the Martians won 'the Quest' for a new Scottish musical, with the 'SUNDOWE' which was performed in Inverness in 2007 before touring the Highlands.  Check my John Kielty page for more info on John. 

DAVID'S NEW SONGS - the drama of One Old Soul, the lyrical beauty of Lady Lullaby, the depth of Insomnia, the intense powerful quiet of No More Words, the joy of Northern Lights, the optimism of White Noise, to the poignancy of God or No God. David performed ten new songs; One Old Soul, Time, Insomnia, Northern Lights, Lady Lullaby, No More Words, The Little Things, Not Your Son, White Noise and God or No God.  
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::2004 - 2005
==========
In contrast to his boyish good looks and light-hearted image, David is a talented musician who writes creative and heartfelt highly emotional songs. He projects a fun enthusiasm and energy on stage.

2004 David continued writing and visited music producers in the States.
After positive responses to the new songs, David decided to start a rock band in May. The Sham included Ed Carlile(drums), Si Jones(guitar), Jake Goslin(keys), John Kielty(guitar) & Jay Mein(bass), their debut single 'Goodbye Baby' reached #1 on 7Digital. The Sham band did gigs in England & Scotland and headlined at Aberdeen's hogmanay. 

In 2005 the band continued with gigs, and in May David did an acoustic set at Colne Music festival with John and Harry. He has been writing and recording in his new Studio near London with music producers Jake Gosling & Jay Mein (Phonic8) and taking his music acoustic.

David is a patron for Struan Charity for autistic children and in September he attended the opening of their new school in Alloa Scotland, where he performed a new song he had written for the children, called 'Heart.' 
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::DISCOGRAPHY: 2003
On January 13th 2003 David released his first single ‘Stop Living The Lie’ which was number one Uk Singles Chart for 2 weeks and Top 40 for 10 weeks.
He performed four times on the BBCs famous show Top of the Pops. David made appearances at HMV Glasgow, HMV Oxford St London.
To date he is the only artist from a reality TV show to have a Number One hit single with a self-composed song.

His second singles release 'Don't Let Go' released in April, was #3 in the UK Singles Chart.

'Seven Years Ten Weeks' David's album, was released in April 2003 four months after he won the show - #5 UK Album chart and shipped Gold in the UK. The day of the album release SLTL was #36 and DLG #3.

David wrote songs about his seven years after leaving university when he worked with bands, on stage and writing his songs in Scotland - and about his ten weeks singing live on the BBC TV show. It contains his three chart singles "Stop Living The Lie", "Don't Let Go" and "Best of Order". All Music and Words by David, with 4 co-writes with John Kielty. The album was produced by Hugh Padgham who produced Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel in the 80s, and was recorded with Elton John's band. It received good reviews.

REVIEWS: 'The voice is amazing…The album is the better for the honesty and genuine emotion in it.'
'This debut album engrosses with stirring emotions and heartfelt true lyrics, and takes you on a journey of inspired escapism. The album has David on piano with Elton John's bands backing him. It is a heart-warming collection of songs that move from busking 'All My Life', to the trials on the TV show, OK, to hope with John’s 'Long Time Coming'. When he’s at the piano he holds the audience with a sensitive and true performance.

There was a Scottish album launch, for the release on 27th April, when David did 7 gigs in 10 hours all over Scotland.

He released his third single 'Best Of Order' in August - #19 Uk Singles Chart.
Fourth single 'Baby Get Higher' was released October and made #39. This song has subsequently achieved success on the dance floor for Belle Lawrence and been a chart hit for Dutch artist Van Velsen in 2006.

::2003::
=====
200 was a whirlwind of live shows, interviews, presenting and more. After winning the show David did many interviews and TV and Radio appearances.
He sang live at the Scottish Hogmanay show. In January he performed on the BBCs Top of the Pops live, singing his No 1 hit Stop Living The Lie live on the show. He was given a Reception at his hometown at Paisley Town Hall to screaming crowds before his HMV signing in Glasgow - when he sang 'Without You' and 'Stop Living The Lie'..

David brought Scottish mate John Kielty down to write with him in London and play with his band. He then began writing and recording for his album Seven Years Ten Weeks.

:GIGS 2003
In April David took part in the successful Fame Academy TOUR, which was the most successful of it's kind and took in dates, including Glasgow SECC the highlight for David, where he had seen Wet Wet Wet and Travis live.
David sang his best song from the FA show 'Dont' Let the Sun Go Down on Me' and 'Stop living the Lie' and Lennon's 'Imagine' - sitting on the staircase.

He was thrilled to perform on the BBC's famous Top of the Pops show, a childhood dream, nine times in all. He sang the Scottish National anthem at Murrayfield before the Ireland Scotland game.
David toured with his band and did a Uni tour, the Box Live and Summer XS tour, and supported Bryan Adams at Bristol and Elton John at Hull.
He also performed & presented the Glasgow Children in Need appeal.

He performed on TV many times; Top of the Pops, BBC Hogmanay show, the Lottery show, and GMTV. David was also a guest presenter on The Saturday Show, & appeared on Avid Merrion's ' Bo Selecta' on Channel 4.

2003 was a very exciting year but also an overwhelming media circus of events, interviews, with much travelling and little time for music. David's fourth single 'Baby Get Higher' was released in October. However his Label saw him as a 'new solo Westlife' of ballad-style pop, while David was keen to do his own music his way.

David has always said his first love is his songwriting and he entered the show thinking it was for aspiring songwriters.
He was offered a songwriting deal with Universal Music in September 2003, and has been working there the last years writing for other artists.
'I've loved all the music side of it, it's everything I hoped it would be - the recording, the studio, writing, but the other stuff......??'
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::2002
=====
David decided to enter the BBCs Fame Academy show when he read that the show was for aspiring songwriters, in the summer of 2002. He auditioned in Glasgow, and was selected for the final auditions in London. He made it to the first TV show and had to sing to secure a place. In an ill-fitting brown suit he sang UpTown Girl, a song he hardly knew! Even so it confirmed to him that this was what he wanted to do.

:Against the Odds! - David was not in the final line up for the Fame Academy show, but when one contestant became ill David was offered a surprise place. He took the gamble and was quickly put up for many tests. Playing catch up to the other contestants David worked hard, and each showdown week he won the Public vote.
David surprised singing coach Carrie when he took to the piano to play his own songs, after she made the comment that he was ‘too boyband.’ It was a big thrill or him to be able perform his own song, Stop Living the Lie, on the TV show.
He showed he was a talented songwriter, and recorded his first video with one of his own songs at the Apple Recording Studios in London.

:!WINNING FAME ACADEMY!!
David sang an amazing cover of Elton John's 'Don’t let the Sun Go Down On Me' and made it through to the final.
Competing with Sinead Quinn and Lemar Obika in the Final,
David WON the TV show in December 2002 with 3 & half million votes, beating over 36,000 other applicants!
He sang 'I Don't Want to Talk About It', 'I Guess That's Why They Call it the Blues' and 'Stop Living The Lie;'

The prize was a Record Deal - and for one year a luxury flat, an Audi TT, tickets to everything and champagne and flowers!
David sang on the STV Hogamany show in Glasgow.
He was signed by Mercury as part of his prize, in December 2002.
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::1978 - 2002
===========
David grew up in a Paisley near Glasgow. At Primary school a teacher suggested a Youth drama group called PACE, and it was one of the best experiences and gave him confidence to perform. He attended PACE for 12 years from the age of 8. He enjoyed performing in musicals from a young age, and when his parents bought him a piano he discovered he loved writing songs, and taught himself to play. David was inspired by his Dad's record collection of the Beatles, Sinatra, Van Morrison and Elton John, and he cites the Beatles as his biggest influence, and the way their imaginative lyrics and memorable melodies conjure up unforgettable songs.

He studied music at school, won several talent competitions, and played lead roles in musicals both at school and at PACE Youth drama.  'The person who has inspired me the most is Elton I love the Beatles, but as I was growing up, I always wanted to play the piano like him. I've never had any lessons, so he has been my only teacher.'

In 1997 David studied at Paisley Univeristy for a year, after which he decided to pursue a career in music. He was offered several opportunities, a Musical in London, a young boy band, and he performed lead roles in Musicals and sang with bands in Scotland for several years. He also presented 'Inside Out' a children's show on Scottish TV.

David continued writing and recording demos. The Herald described him as
'a star in the making...He was the Prince in Cinderella and the audience was full of young misses keen to try on more than the slipper with him.' 
The MARTIANS- While acting Romeo he met John Kielty, who was playing Juliet's father! After doing some acoustic nights at the Arches in Glasgow, doing their own songs, they decided to start a band and called themselves The Martians. They recorded a 4-track CD. The Martians performed at the Edinburgh Festival 2002. For Martian info - www.themartiansfansite.co.uk

 
His strength is an emotional voice. One moment he is smiling light-heartedly, the next singing infectious melodies backed byguitar, and then giving one of his moving performances at the piano. Words to describe David - a straight talker, a dreamer, intense, volatile, idealistic, sensitive, with a wicked sense of humour. (Updated 2009)

 'Haste ye back ....what a belter!, the atmosphere can only be described as electric'   Neil MacKay

BIO FACTS-
========
*Born Paisley Scotland, September 15th 1978. Parents David and Anne, and sister Pauline. 
Long-term girlfriend Eleanor Roffe.
He taught himself keyboards and wrote his first song when he was in his early teens, called 'Down To You.'
He went to Glennifer High school, Paisley, where he also did theatre and appeared in plays such as Oklahoma and Anything Goes.
David performed lead roles in musicals at school, and with PACE youth drama theatre.
In 1997 he studied at Paisley University for a year majoring in Media studies.
*David presented BBC Tv show 'Inside Out ' (a children's program he wrote)
Performed with bands from age 18, playing pubs and clubs in Scotland.
Started the Martians band with John Kielty.

*Won Fame Academy with 3 and a half million votes, December 2002, beating 36,000 entrants.
In the final hHe sang 'Dont' Let the Sun Go Down on Me' and 'I Dont' Want to Talk About it' and his own song ' Stop Living the lie'.
Prize Mercury Record Deal - and for one year a luxury flat, an Audi TT, tickets to everything and champagne and flowers!
*Album title Seven Years Ten Weeks refers to David's seven years of struggling and the ten weeks on the Tv show. The album contains all original material, written by David, except for one song written by John.
There was a big Scottish album launch, for the release on 27th April - David did 7 gigs in 10 hours all over Scotland. 
*I2003 with his band did a Uni tour, the Box Live and Summer XS tour. Supported Bryan Adams in May, and Elton John in July 2003.
David performed on TV many times - Top of the Pops, Lottery show, GMTV and other shows.
Presented The Saturday show several times, the Glasgow Children in Need appeal, & was on Avid Merridon's ' Bo Selecta' show.
Left Mercury Records to work for Universal Publishing as a songwriter in October 2003.

2005 - 2005 Performed with rock band The Sham.
He works as a songwriter in London and had several hits songs worldwide in 2006.
Doing a London Acoustic tour in 2006/2007.
Released his first recording in years, the EP 'White Noise' in January 2007 - It was No 1 Indie charts for 3 months, and returned to top the chart in January 2008.

David plays keyboard, piano and drums.
His music is mostly influenced by The Beatles & his piano skills are self-taught.
His hobbies include playing 5-a side football, watching movies, acting and playing video games. Plus a HUGE Taggart fan! (Scottish crime TV series)
*Musical heroes - Elton John and Paul McCartney.
Addicted to X-Box, Irn Bru and Rangers football club!
Awards - Nordoff Robins Award for Contribution to music
    Radio Forth One Newcomer award.
Winner BBC Fame Academy