Robert Grace
Singer/songwriter/producer Robert Grace revealed his new single “Moving Fast” on June 21st.
With the help of producer Matt Weir, the Irish artist created a catchy pop single.
"Moving Fast" is about being so infatuated with someone that you would do absolutely anything to get with them. They basically have this control over you. You know it's not healthy but you just can't help it! I think we've all been in a similar situation at one point in our lives. I know I have!” explains Grace.
Robert has co-written with some of the best-known songwriters in the UK, including Dan McDougall (The Wanted, The Shires), Blair MacKichan (Paloma Faith, Sia, Lily Allen),Phil Thornalley (Natalie Imbruglia, Pixie Lott) and Josh Wilkinson (One Direction, 5 Seconds of Summer). More recently, Grace wrote and co-produced four tracks on Hometown’s 2015 chart topping album in Ireland.
“Moving Fast” is now available on major streaming platforms.
Introduce yourself - where are you from?
Hi my name is Robert Grace and I’m form a small town in Kilkenny, Ireland.
What's your story?
I’m a 26 year old artist, songwriter, producer, husband & father.
When did your love for art and music begin?
For as long as I can remember I’ve had this deep connection to music. It was a huge part of my childhood. I always took music more serious than any other kid growing up. It meant so much more to me.
Do you remember your early musical memories?
The earliest musical memory I have is one where I was sitting in a stroller trying my best to play a mandolin while watching my dad and his band performing on stage in our local town. The first time I ever sang in front of someone was when I was 13 and it was to try and impress a girl. I was awful!!
Do you remember the first record you ever bought?
The first record I ever bought with my own money was the album “All The Right Reasons” by Nickelback. I don’t know why they get so much hate!
Growing up, what were your favourite records to sing along to?
Top 5 were: “All the small things” - Blink 182, “How you remind me” - Nickelback, “Complicated” - Avril Lavigne, “Mr Brightside” - The Killers, “Sugar we’re going down” - Fall out boy.
When did you start writing songs?
I started writing properly at the age of 13.
When did you decide to become an artist and release your original music?
I wanted to be an artist from the moment I started writing and singing but I didn't actually become one until I was around 17. I started to have confidence in my songs at that time and wasn’t afraid to post them online.
How did your sound evolve over the years?
In the beginning most of my songs were sad songs because I feel like they’re the easiest ones to write when all you have is a guitar. When I started to record & produce my own stuff I found it easier to branch into Pop. The first track I ever officially released was called “Talk to me”. It was singer/songwriter pop (kind of like “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz) and, for me, I felt like it was a good introduction. Since then my sound has evolved into a mixture between Charlie Puth & Shawn Mendes. With every release I feel like I’m getting closer to my own unique sound.
"Moving Fast" is your new single. What's the story behind this song?
“Moving Fast” is basically about being so infatuated with someone that you would do absolutely anything to be with them. No matter what the cost!
Who helped you create this particular song?
A very talented producer named Matt Weir helped me get this track to the next level. I wrote the song, demoed it up and then sent him the stems. He worked his magic from there and out came probably my favourite track I’ve ever released.
What can you tell us about the artwork for the song?
I have this super gifted friend called David Ryan who has done all my artworks since I started releasing music. I go to him with a very basic idea and then he creates these pieces of amazing art. This artwork in particular portrays a guy kneeling in front of a castle with the face of the woman he likes watching over him. It originates from the line in the song: “On my way, I could come over, get there fast like its war and I'm a soldier”.
What do you like the most about this single?
I like that it’s fun with a slightly sexy vibe. I feel like it makes you want to dance and I think that’s vital for a catchy pop song. My most favourite thing about this track though is the flow of the verses. I just really enjoyed writing them.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
I really just want my music to make you feel something for the 3 or so minutes that you’re listening. I feel like life can be super stressful and music is such a healthy way to distract yourself. I want someone to listen to my songs and feel exactly what I was feeling when I wrote them.
What advice would you give to young songwriters?
Just write as many songs as you can. At least a song a day in the beginning. And write with other writers as often as possible because you’ll learn from each other and evolve a lot quicker.
What do you like the most about being an artist?
I love the excitement of releasing new music, the build up and the hype! I also like having creative control so I can be 100% happy with the track before it’s released. I love performing my own songs and hearing what people think. So many loves about being an artist.
From all the things you've experienced in the music industry so far, do you have a favourite memory?
I have lots of great memories but one of my favourites would have to be when I got to write and produce tracks for Louis Walsh’s boyband “Hometown” who were signed to Sony Music UK. It was a lot of fun. Also, when I released my first single/EP! That was a massive moment for me.
What's the best advice you've ever received?
Don’t give up what you want most for what you want now!
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
Cut out single use plastics. It would make a huge difference and it isn’t that hard to do!
What biggest life lessons have you learned so far?
Family is everything, a good reputation is more valuable than money and the more effort you put into something, the more you get out of it.
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