At AWAL, we love sharing our artists’ stories so their paths — as individual and unique as the music they make — inspire others to pursue their own music-career goals.
Here in our “My Journey” series, our members share their stories — the challenges they’ve faced, how they’ve overcome them, the milestones they’ve achieved, and where they hope the future leads.
This week, we’re speaking with UK based electro/rnb artist — ECKOES.
Can you tell us a bit about where your artistic journey began?
I’ve always, always wanted to be a singer, but I decided to make music my life after uni.
I went to a few different music schools then realized the only way to learn to be a musician is to go out there and be one. I spent a lot of time in London pubs and clubs trying out my material.
What stage of your musical journey are you in now?
That’s so hard to say, because where does my particular journey go?
I’m an indie artist and love being my own boss. It’s not easy juggling my own music, toplining, live shows, press, etc., but if you want it, you make it work.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far?
Drowning out the noise and steering clear of shiny objects. It’s easy to start thinking you need to sound a bit more like X or Y, and it can pull you off course. Also, there’s a difference between a good opportunity and a good opportunity for you.
What have been some of the most rewarding moments in your career so far?
Opening for Sister Sledge was amazing, especially since Joni Sledge passed away this year, so that was a real honor to share a stage. I’ve been lucky enough to play festivals here and in Europe with my brilliant band, but sometimes the best bits are just writing in the studio — when a new song falls into place and everyone gets high on creation.
Any major milestones on the horizon?
Two more tracks I’ve co-written have recently been signed and will be on some 2018 dance compilation albums which is cool. I’m looking forward to releasing a debut EP next year, too.
What are some of your ultimate goals for your music career?
I 100% want to tour the world and perform to as many people as possible. Glastonbury MainStage would be pretty insane, too. I just want to be doing it all for a very long time.
AWAL Insights™ Into ECKOES’ Journey
- Although ECKOES is most popular in her native UK, her music is gaining listenership in the US — it’s her second most popular streaming country.
- ECKOES’ music is slightly more popular with men — 55% of all listeners are male, while only 45% are female.
- It seems like any time is a great time to groove to ECKOES! Listeners are streaming her music throughout the day, but the highest times are between 3-5pm Tuesday-Friday.
How has your experience with AWAL been so far?
Amazing. They’re on hand to help all the time, and actually get involved with artists. You can tell it’s run by guys who genuinely love music.
The best outlets for artists to learn from are from other artists! Sign up to the AWAL Weekly and see how AWAL artists like ECKOES are conquering the grind and finding success!
