STEVEN WINTON
Q: What was the inspiration behind your song “Outlaws”?
I went through a stage in life where I struggled with the daily monotony and was always looking for a way out. My debauched weekend escapism often resulted in seeing myself as an “outlaw” but I always managed to keep my shit together. I wanted to get my story told in the most positive melody I could, I feel I managed that with Outlaws.
Q: The lyrics of “Outlaws” mention being both your best friend and your own worst enemy. How do you relate to that concept personally?
I guess it goes for everyone, one day we love ourselves, and the next we can’t stand the sight of ourselves. It’s all about the devil on one shoulder, and the angel on the other. We’ve all got a bit of good and bad inside us. No one is perfect.
Q: There’s a strong theme of internal conflict in the song. Can you tell us more about what was going through your mind while writing those lines?
Again following the lines of finding perfection, I would imagine its impossible for most people, but we all have an inner battle to try and reach that place. If not perfection, we can at least try and strive for happiness.
Q: You sing about the struggle to “find that harmony.” How do you balance the darker and lighter sides of yourself in your own life?
A lot of the time through music. It may seem a lazy answer, but its the truth. I often go back to my favorite album or playlist when I’m going through a rough time. Songs trigger memories, and often I want to find a happy place if things aren’t going so well. Oasis’ Whats The Story Morning Glory album is where I usually head when I’m down. But the key is to stay balanced, not too high and not too low – took me a while to figure that out, but here we are.
Q: What does the idea of being an “outlaw” mean to you in the context of this song?
Again breaking free of the tedious Monday to Friday routine you find yourself in and wanting to cut loose when the weekend comes. Be a little lawless if you can, with of course, staying within the law.
Q: How does “Outlaws” fit into the broader themes of your music and your artistic journey so far?
When I was younger I was in a band called Fridge Magnets, myself and the rest of the members (and entourage) were Outlaws. It was a crazy few years, but I’m still here to tell the tale (and I do, often!).
Q: When writing “Outlaws,” did you have a specific audience or listener in mind?
Not really, I tend to write songs to inspire myself in the hope that others enjoy them too. My music isn’t going to rewrite the book of music, but I do tend to try make the songs as upbeat as possible. It’s best served on a sunny day after a bottle of Rose or two.
Q: How do you typically approach songwriting? Do you start with the lyrics, the melody, or something else?
I usually start with my guitar to get a chord sequence or riff, then take the melody from there. The lyrics always come last. I’m not the most accomplished guitar player, so I tend to focus more on writing a catchy lyric as opposed to some complex guitar playing. At the end of the day. the lyrics (to me) are the most important part.
Q: How much of your personal experience influence your songwriting?
I would say my songs are largely based on my life events. Relationships, scenarios, travel experiences, tales from friends – I would say almost 99% of it has an element of truth to it.
Q: “Outlaws” has a very reflective and philosophical feel. Do you consider yourself a philosophical person?
No, not really. Never really thought about it, to be honest. But I do like that it gives off that vibe.
Q: Do you think the themes of “Outlaws” will resonate with a particular generation or group of people?
In terms of sound, it will appeal to an older demographic. That’s for sure, but I guess the chorus is catchy enough for anyone to hum along too. In terms of lyrics, if people do have a look through them i guess it could relate to anyone. Students, Accountants, Chefs….teachers, Outlaws is a pretty universal story about escapism.
Q: Can you tell us about any particular artists or songwriters who have influenced your approach to lyrics?
I’ve always admired Noel Gallagher as a songwriter, especially his earlier work. His lyrics often revolved around escapism and positivity but in a simple way. As a working-class man, he was easy to relate to. Neil Young and Ryan Adams are also two songwriters that I often look up to.
Q: What’s the most challenging part of writing lyrics that are as introspective as those in “Outlaws”?
Maybe not Outlaws perse, but it can sometimes be a challenge writing a lyric so personal that the listener can take it the wrong way. Although i said most of my songs have a strong personal feel to it, they are always embellished with some fantasy. My life isn’t that exciting to write a whole album about, so you need to spice it up once in a while. As long as people remember that when listening, then there’s no harm in some introspective work.
Q: Do you have a favorite lyric or line from “Outlaws” that holds special meaning for you?
“A devil lives inside of all of our mind, but its the angels we try hardest to find”.
I’d say that’s my favorite one.
