Advertorial feature On The Rise: A closer look at The Ivor Novellos’ Rising Star Award

Earlier this year, you won the 2024 Rising Star Award with Amazon Music – what was that like?!

It was a big big shock because I knew how prestigious the award was and I knew I had just released my debut album and it’s something I’ve always wanted to be a part of, so it was the best thing to happen to me this year.

Why do you think being a member of The Ivors Academy is so important for young songwriters today?

I think being a songwriter and the history of how they are treated, in terms of fairness and collaboration, can sometimes fall short, whether it’s with payment or credit. For me, I wanted to be part of the change that they’re fighting for for songwriters and are putting them first because they are just as important as the artist and the producer. It’s a big issue that I and others have felt.

What sort of a difference do you feel like it has made for you and your future?

People finally opened their eyes and started taking me more seriously as an artist because the award is genuinely one of the most important ones in the music industry. It’s like you are solidified as a special songwriter in the industry’s eyes which then creates more opportunity. It’s genuinely helped my career so much.

Earlier this year, you were nominated for the 2024 Rising Star Award with Amazon Music – how did it feel to be acknowledged in this way as a songwriter?

It felt truly incredible! I’d been to the Ivor Novello awards a few years prior and it became a goal of mine to be nominated by 2025. I couldn’t believe how kindly I was treated and spoken about as a songwriter. It means the world to me that I was even considered, there are so many unbelievably talented songwriters everywhere in the world, it’s easy to feel a lot smaller than I am. With their recognition, it really reassured my belief in my writing. I can’t put into words how much it meant to me.

As part of the Rising Star programme, you’ve been offered additional support for a series of activations through Amazon Music and The Ivors Academy. Can you tell us a little about what you did?

I went to Nashville, Tennessee! And Los Angeles! Oh my goodness, it was insane. My Nashville trip was so lovely, I had an amazing time, I wrote great songs with skilled individuals who I now call friends. Exploring the world is such a privilege but to do what I love, while I’m doing it? I don’t have the words. It was such a pleasure.

If you had any advice for young songwriters and composers starting out today, what would it be and why?

My advice would be to live as much as possible, and though I struggle to take this advice myself, don’t force greatness out of yourself. It’ll probably come when you’re in a session you’re dreading because you’ve not bothered to write, or when you find yourself in a session you weren’t supposed to be in. The universe is crazy and you belong in every space you end up. Greatness could happen any day, it takes luck and hard work at your skill I think. Though I’m not sure I’m in a position to give advice just yet – I’m still figuring this stuff out!

Earlier this year, you were nominated for the 2024 Rising Star Award with Amazon Music – first off, congratulations! Secondly, how did it feel to be acknowledged in this way as a songwriter?

It truly was the most wonderful feeling of love and gratification. I was shocked to get the nomination but on the day I managed to try and take a second to really enjoy myself and feel like I’m meant to be there among some of the greatest writers around. It was such a beautiful and inspiring day.

How were you first introduced to The Ivors Academy and what encouraged you to become a member?

I feel like I’ve known about The Ivors for years now without being able to place where the first point of hearing about it was. I knew that they did amazing work in so many aspects of the industry but it wasn’t until I went to the awards this year that I saw its biggest strength; the community that it brings together. To be a part of this big, beautiful echo chamber of people who truly care about the craft of songwriting and the well being of all involved is just an amazing feeling. So much of this journey can be terrifying, so knowing that you’re in the same boat as so many others is both comforting and motivating.

Why is it so important for songwriters to receive this level of support from the industry within their careers?

I think support like this is so gratifying for upcoming artists. Sometimes, especially in the modern day social media era we’re in, it can feel like you’re just constantly shouting into the void with nothing coming back to tell you you’re doing anything right. I know in my heart though that if no one was ever watching, or if no one heard any of my songs that I’d still be writing them. But to just get a little nod like this to say “hey, you’ve got this, we see you” is such a lovely motivator. It’s all confidence isn’t it, it just makes you feel like you’re on the right track and that if you keep pushing, good things will come.

How were you first introduced to The Ivors Academy? Why do you think being a member of it is so important for young songwriters today?

I was introduced to The Ivors Academy by my manager and I was encouraged by how embracing it seemed for songwriters. I was keen on developing my skills which became evident that The Ivors would aid even more. Being a member of The Ivors is so important because it provides you with a community of mentors and creatives who genuinely want to see you develop and succeed which is a hard thing to come across nowadays.

As part of the Rising Star programme, you’ve been offered additional support for a series of activations through Amazon Music and The Ivors Academy. Can you tell us how it’s helped to further your career?

The additional support has allowed me to attend writing camps, which has aided in my development as a songwriter. It also allowed me to receive more guitar and piano lessons which has helped me to progress with more speed – I’m incredibly grateful for this. My main objective is just improving and by placing me in certain rooms, it will help me build connections with great people and learn from respected peers which will help further my career.

If you had any advice for young songwriters and composers starting out today, what would it be and why?

My advice would be to seek guidance or mentoring as soon as you can. I was blessed to be surrounded by amazing people as soon as I started my career which allowed me to be in the position I’m in. The majority of the great things and people we see aren’t entirely self-made and require mountains of work from a team in order to become successful. Of course, develop in your own time and be a master of your craft in all aspects but it’s a journey that doesn’t need to be completed alone.

Songwriters, protect your rights, empower your career and champion your craft – join The Ivors Academy over at ivorsacademy.com/membership.

Enter for the Rising Star Award with Amazon Music 2025: There’s no fee – you just need to be aged 18–24, British, Irish, or a UK resident in 2024, and a member of The Ivors Academy. Under 25? Join at a discounted rate. Head to ivorsacademy.com/risingstar

This article is brought to you as part of our partnership with The Ivors Academy. Head over to diymag.com to read the full interviews from the winner and nominees of this year’s Rising Star Award.

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