Interview: Callum Richards
Hailing from the South Wales Valleys, Callum Richards is a professional session musician, having played in London’s West End, on cruise ships, and in many function bands across the UK and Europe. Callum's signature sound and musical style of guitar-driven funky indie-rock are inspired by some of Callum’s favourite guitarists and artists John Frusciante, John Mayer, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
What got you into music?
When I was young, it was Neil Diamond tunes that got me wanting to sing, I was introduced to Red Hot Chilli Peppers when I was 16, and listening to them was what inspired me to pick up a guitar.
Has being a musician something you’ve wanted to do from a young age?
I have always had a massive love for music, but I didn’t go to university to study music like most of my peers, so I wouldn’t say being a musician was going to be a career for me. It was only when I finished my engineering degree that I started attending open mics and developed a passion for performing live and writing songs.
You play cover shows, original shows, cruises, clubs… Where are you at your happiest?
I’m at my happiest when I’m exercising. I wish I could give you a romantic answer of when I’m on stage or performing haha! But exercising is genuinely what makes me feel the best about myself.
Can you describe your music to someone who hasn’t listened before?
I would describe music as being a blend of classic pop and rock vibes, with an influence of funk, which I have picked up from my favourite funk guitars players like Nile Rodgers, Rob Harris, and John Frusciante. Funky rhythm chops are where I feel I am at my best on guitar. In terms of vocally, I would liken my songs to being Stereophonics-esque.
Your latest single Uncatchable Dream, what’s it all about?
Uncatchable Dream is a song I wrote after a gig I landed on London’s West End went wrong. For years I had been battling to get a big gig like that and this was finally it, or so I thought. After a successful opening night, the show got shelved due to low ticket sales. It was a big punch to the gut, and it made me question whether the hard graft that comes with being a musician was worth it. So Uncatchable Dream explores the themes of unrealised dreams and goals not being fulfilled.
What are your goals for 2025?
My goals for 2025 are to do more gigs in big theatres and venues as a dep guitarist with some big acts and tribute shows. I have a few European dates already lined up and I’m looking to add to them. Also, I’d love to headline a gig with my original music, something I’ve not done yet. And of course to release more music.
If you could collaborate with anyone in the world, who would it be?
It’d have to be with John Frusciante, he inspired me to first pick up the guitar and I’m still as obsessed with his guitar playing now, as I was when I was 16.
