So the time has come again where yours truly is allowed to interview an artist who has proved to be an influential force within the British music scene, especially at the turn of the millennium, which was wow, eleven years ago now. Time flies by so fast these days! Since then Mark Hill has proved that he has exactly what it takes to provide the British music industry with the music that we are desperately searching to hear, working with the likes of Craig David; Corinne Bailey Rae and so many more established artists within the industry. Mark seems to have a gift at bringing out the very best in artists, so it was a honour when he said yes to me interviewing him on his past musical experiences, what’s going on for him at present and what he has in store for the future.
So, sit back and enjoy this fantastic insight into such a talented individual, followed by videos of work he has blessed us with over the years and if you possibly want to chat to the man himself, then you can find him on Twitter and Facebook, also check out his YouTube channel for new updates. Enjoy! When were you first exposed to music? Did you know then that this is something you wanted to pursue?
Music has been a big part of my life from some of my earliest memories; my Parents bought me a tin drum kit when I was 4 and my Grandfather Tom had a house full of instruments that he was self taught on, they ranged from a Guitar; a Banjo, Harmonica and an Accordion. I tried almost every instrument in school until I joined a brass band and settled on Drums and Percussion.
You experienced a large amount of success at the turn of the Millennium, how did that make you feel?
It was an amazing feeling, albeit slightly surreal. There was a massive sense of relief, especially as we had really struggled to make a go of running a studio for years and we were massively in debt. It was also slightly bittersweet getting swept up in the music business politics of the time, we were pretty unprepared.
You produced one of my favourite albums from Craig David, did you ever expect ‘Born To Do It’ to be as successful as it was?
Craig and I used to joke about how many millions the songs would sell, I have to admit we knew they were pretty special. The ones that really resonated gave us an amazing feeling when we wrote them, but we had no real idea of the impact they were to have globally.
Do you still have contact with Craig?
A little, the odd email now and again, but not as much as I would like to, our lives took very different paths after ‘Born To Do It’. Also, I never saw eye to eye with his label, which was a strain on our relationship. We’ve talked about writing together again, but saying that, I’m not happy with doing it via email. The best music we wrote was when we were vibing in the studio together.
Will you ever work with Craig again on a new project?
Never say never! I’m open to it, but it would have to be on the right terms creatively, I’d love him to guest on a track for my new project.
You’re still doing your thing within music, what projects do you have lined up for the future?
I’ve made a vow to concentrate on writing music for pleasure now, not business. I’ve realised I’m no good at being a jobbing writer/producer working to a brief, so I’m setting a label to release my own music and collaborations, also developing new artists that emerge through writing and recording sessions.
I adored your project ‘The StiX’ that you did a few years back; will you ever do anything like that again? If so, who would you love to work with?
I’ll definitely do another similar album, I’m also working on a Rock album, there are so many great soulful artists in the UK; both signed and unsigned. I’d love to work with Corinne again and all the other guys from BLNT. As soon as the label is up and running, you can expect to hear all sorts of projects to come out of it.
What music are you really into at present? Are there any artists out there whose music you appreciate?
Spotify is my new best friend and YouTube, I discover new music daily but I’m enjoying Citizen Cope; Deadmau5; Magnetic Man; Ed Sheeran and a lot of underground dance stuff at the moment. I’m also a big fan of John Mayer, as I think his songwriting is superb.
You’ve leaked various songs via the internet over recent months, is there a project in the pipeline?
Definitely, I have an as yet unnamed album coming out in time for summer and I’m planning to tour it as a live show featuring a few guest singers.
What are your thoughts on the current state of the music industry?
The traditional music industry is really struggling, but the new music industry is incredibly exciting. The internet has helped to create a much more level playing field for emerging artists. I’m so excited about what the future of music holds.
What do you think the future has in store for Mark Hill and fans of his work?
A lot of music! If my current mood prevails, I’m going to be making a lot of music in the future, especially now I have a new outlet for it. I really want to leave a legacy for my kids too, give them something to be proud of.
To those who haven’t heard your music (unbelievable as it may be), how would you describe your sound?
I always try and make each track sound a little different, but inevitably people seem to recognise it. I suppose a simple way of putting it is that it’s uplifting; soulful; feel good music with a bit of an edge. It’s always easier for someone else to describe it though.
Finally, is there anything you would like to say to the people reading this interview?
Thanks for taking the time to read it and keep supporting new music, also I hope that you have a great and fulfilling life.
Artful Dodger – Re-Rewind (feat. Craig David)
Artful Dodger – Woman Trouble (feat. Robbie Craig & Craig David)
Artful Dodger – Please Don’t Turn Me On (feat. Lifford)
Mark Hill – Could Just Be The Bassline (feat. Ed Sheeran)
Mark Hill – New Album Minimix
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mark for taking the time to answer the questions I asked him and wish him all the success he truly deserves in the future. After all, this is one very talented man.
