ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: SAXON
Welcome to our artist spotlight Q&A with Saxon! Discover the inspiration behind his unique blend of RnB, jazz, and lo-fi, including the late-night vibe of "Go Home." Dive into his creative process, collaborations, and how London influences his sound. Join us for insights into Saxon's music and future projects!
"Go Home" has such a unique vibe. What inspired the sultry, late-night feel of this track?
Firstly, I have to give a shout-out to Remdolla, the producer! He consistently puts together amazing sounds that I find easy to mesh with. I was in Harvey Whyte’s studio when I was working on this track; it was probably around 2 a.m. after a few drinks and a long night of working on several different tracks. Amunaso has such a special tone to her voice, so collaborating with her just seemed like the right thing to do.
How did your collaboration with Amunaso come about, and what was it like working together on "Go Home"?
We’ve been following each other on social media for a while. As I mentioned before, the tone of her voice is really special—it creates an atmosphere that is irresistible. She’s great to work with and serious about her craft. I sent her a demo, and with lightning speed, she sent through the vocals. That was pretty much it from there.
Your music blends RnB, jazz, and lo-fi. Who are some of your biggest musical influences that have shaped your sound?
My biggest musical influences don’t really sit within those genres. Artists like Kate Bush, Franco Luambo, and Koffi Olomide have been more influential. I enjoy RnB, jazz, and lo-fi, but I don’t sing or play any instruments—haha, I wish I did. I’ve been told I have a cadence similar to Giggs and a tone close to that of Barry White, and I feel they’ve helped shape my sound.
"Candy" was well-received, and your performance on Sofar Sounds was incredible. Can you tell us more about the creative process behind that song?
Thank you. It was a great way to start the year. I really enjoyed that performance and being able to share the track. The creative process was really smooth—one of the best sessions I’ve had. The writing process was so fluid. We crafted everything carefully, and then having TryBry lace it all together with his guitar was the cherry on top. You don’t always get a smooth process; there are times when you need to go back and revisit, sometimes taking months, or for some artists, years. I’m grateful that wasn’t the case here—it only took an hour, if that.
You've collaborated with talents like Sheba Q, Sugi.wa, and Harvey Whyte. What do you look for in a collaborator, and how do these partnerships enhance your music?
Like-mindedness and a genuine interest or liking for each other’s work. Without that, I don’t think it’s really a collaboration—more like an exchange. Partnerships founded on mutual respect help to develop more and cultivate the creative space, leading to what I think is a more enriched sound. Whether that enrichment is fun, technical, or otherwise, these partnerships have led to my music being enhanced.
What was it like filming at Plaisterers' Hall for Sofar Sounds, and how did the setting influence your performance?
That’s a great question. The venue has a lot of history and a certain quality to it. It’s grand, which gives you the feeling that your work is “grand.” Everyone was sitting on the floor, which made it intimate and more about sharing than performing. I don’t like performing, but I’m happy to share, and that’s what I felt I was able to do. The cameras weren’t really noticeable—the energy of the crowd was the focus. I guess that’s also thanks to Harry and Alex being such great camera guys!
As an artist hailing from London, how does the city’s culture influence your music?
The city is filled with talent, and in that sense, you’re influenced to create something to the best of your ability. In terms of my city’s direct influence, I’d say the locations I frequent, the spaces I grew up in, and the people I’ve met along the way have all helped shape me as an artist. My music is more of an internal reflection of that. I’m not trying to mimic the sound of the spaces I’ve spent time in or “match” the times; I want my music to reflect how London has shaped me. So, where we choose to shoot videos and the themes I explore are heavily influenced by London.
Your nickname "Barry Black" is intriguing. What's the story behind that, and how does it reflect your artistic identity?
It’s one of many nicknames I have. I’ve been told my cadence is similar to Giggs, but my tone and the texture of my voice lean towards Barry White. I don’t feel bad about either comparison—to be honest, being mentioned alongside the two is a compliment. But all three of us have very different sounds and approaches to music. Barry Black is a homage to Barry White, but I’m not trying to be Barry White. I’m Saxon, and Barry was Barry.
Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations that you're excited about?
There are a couple—I'm excited about a track with KeepVibesNear. My third EP, TRINITY, dropped on the 11th of August. I have a few more projects up my sleeve that I’ll announce in due time.
If you could perform with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
MF DOOM—he was top class.
What message or feeling do you hope listeners take away from "Go Home"?
Free yourself from your inhibitions and take some time to unwind.
How do you see your sound evolving in the future? Are there any new genres or styles you’re interested in exploring?
There’s no limit to creativity. Whatever sonic expression I’m able to explore, I’ll give it a go. I love creating—whether all those explorations will be released is another question.
What’s the most memorable moment you’ve had during a live performance?
The crowd singing the choruses back to us during the live performance at Café Koko. That was great. I had some important people in the crowd supporting me, so it meant a lot.
Do you have any rituals or routines that help you get into the zone before creating or performing?
Before getting on stage: 4 shots of gin, 2 shots of vodka, and a large peppermint tea. While on stage, I’ll have a double ray and nephew and orange juice. My ancestors are with me.
Before creating, it all depends on the purpose of creation—that dictates my ritual or routine.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians looking to find their unique sound?
The same thing Jesus said: Seek, and ye shall find.