Having moved to London from France in 2013, Kevin Davy White has been building a music career in the United Kingdom, and has most recently released his latest single Honey earlier this year, which was inspired by his drummer returning to France. Kevin has previously recorded and released his own EPs, has toured the world with his music, and is now preparing for performing at festivals this summer. In 2017, Kevin was a finalist on Series 14 of The X Factor, where he was mentored by American singer Nicole Scherzinger and finished in third place. Chatting with us, Kevin talked about his latest single Honey, his upcoming festivals this summer and being a finalist on The X Factor.
How long were you working on your new single Honey and can you tell us about the release?
Honey began as an adventure in 2013, when I moved to London for the first time. So ten years. I had to go through a lot in my life before I felt the song was complete and ready. It only took me two days to record it for the album. When you feel it’s the right time. It’s exactly like a highway.
Where did the inspiration come from for the single and how was it working on the whole process for the release from writing to producing?
My inspiration came when the drummer from my rock band quit and returned to France. It was as if a friendship breakup had happened. But deep down, it brought me to a crossroads in my career. I began to write about it as if it were my girlfriend. However, this song is about my “Ex” drummer. Then, you know, when I start hearing the song in my head, I can almost hear the finished version. I just needed to have fun while recording it.
Who do you think your music will appeal to and why would you recommend listening to Honey?
If you enjoy music in general then why not listen to my song. It has a rock, blues, and soul spice to it.
Having previously released your own EPs, what were they like to work on?
Purely fun. That’s all I do. I just make music and let people listen and enjoy.
How was your time as a contestant on The X Factor and what encouraged you to apply for the show?
My X Factor experience was awesome! I stumbled upon this show totally by chance. I heard it was the final day of auditions. I was free. And I said, “Why not?”.
How was it reaching the Final in 2017 and being mentored by Nicole Scherzinger?
I was once again reminded by making it to the Final that music has no borders. People believed in me because of my music. They could feel it!
Nicole was incredibly encouraging to me. She knew I could shine in my own way, so she made sure I had the freedom to do so.
Was there anything you enjoyed most about being a contestant and what are some of your favourite memories?
It was incredible to perform in front of millions of people every week! Every live performance I did on that show was one of my favourite memories. Along with all the love from my family, friends, and those at home who were watching and following my journey.
This summer, you are performing at Weyfest Music Festival, what are you looking forward to most for performing at the event?
As usual, sending out some positive energy. And what a line-up it is this year! It is an honour for me to be a part of it! It’s always a pleasure to perform with my band! I have always been a fan of Jools Holland so I hope he gets to hear me play, I will be listening to him for sure! I’m also looking forward to checking out Ward Thomas as I’ve recently started listening to their music!
We understand you’ve toured your music around the world, what is it like playing to audiences and seeing their response to your music?
Being able to go through this is a great blessing. People connect in the same way no matter where we play! That is what I enjoy most about music. It transcends words. It is just as powerful as love.
Where does your love of music come from and how did you get into the industry?
It all started when I saw Jimi Hendrix’s Woodstock performance! It demonstrated to me that I could express myself freely through music. My father, as well as the rest of my family, enjoys listening to music. All of this, combined with a strong will, has brought me to this point!
Do you have a favourite aspect of being a musician?
Yes, I feel free!
How do you like to spend your time away from your career?
My family time is very precious to me.
Who are some of your favourite music artists to listen to and are there any you’d like to collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with Jacob Banks or Gary Clark Jr. And even more artists. I love this concept of merging two souls into music.
Having released Honey recently, do you have any future release plans as yet and where can fans see you perform live this year other than Weyfest?
Oh oui! There are many brand-new songs in my repertoire. Just watch the space! It is heading in your direction.
This summer, I will have the honour of being Lionel Ritchie’s special guest at the Lytham Festival.
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