Simon Wiffen

Although he started writing music in his teens, Simon only started performing in public two years ago, and described playing his first gig as ‘terrifying’. Many more gigs later and a few great reviews under his belt, things are just getting better and better…

 What inspires you to write your songs?

I kind of wish I knew as I’d be able to write more often. I find it difficult to sit down and write, most of my songs have written themselves. Some are about me, some are just made up and some are a bit of both. They’re all a bit depressing really, I’m trying to lighten up a bit! I had six or seven years without writing anything at all – I think what started me up again was the birth of my first child.

 Do you think the music industry has lost touch with the art of songwriting?

I wouldn’t say so, it’s probably better now than it was five or ten years ago. There seem to be a lot more singer/songwriters around now – that’s what I listened to growing up. It’s probably as healthy now as it’s ever been.

 Who do you consider to be a great lyricist?

You’ve got your obvious Dylans and Springfields, but I tend to listen to a lot of American songwriters such as Matt Nathanson and Glen Phillips – he does a lot of acoustic stuff. It’s good to see how Glen Phillips uses the guitar to fill out the song; I wish I was a better guitar player so it’s good to listen to someone with a bit more experience.

 Where would you like to be in five year’s time?

I really don’t have any idea. I don’t have any aspiration to be massively successful. I’m already playing more now than I ever expected to be. I just enjoy doing it – it’s such an unlikely thing for me to do as I’m really shy, although not as much as I used to be.

 Leeds has a huge music scene. What’s the best thing about gigging here?

The best thing is probably the worst thing as well. There’s so much going on, it does mean that you’re often playing to small crowds as there are so many quality people playing everywhere. It’s better having that than have nothing going on though. We’re so spoilt in Leeds.

 You’ve posted some of your lyrics up on your website and offer free downloads – do you think sharing music is important?

Some people have said it’s a bit pretentious but I always want to know what the lyrics are when I listen to music, so if there’s anyone who wants to know them then they’re up there. My attitude is that if someone wants to listen to the songs then they’re there to download. It might backfire if I ever get to release something as everyone will have it but who cares?

 Which song is your favourite and why?

I really don’t think I’ve got one. ‘Leave Me Gently’ is possibly my favourite. I’ve got a core set of songs that I prefer, I’m not at the stage yet where I’ve got loads of good songs – some of them mean more to me than others but they’re not necessarily the best songs. It’s just therapy really.

For more information and upcoming gigs check out Simon’s website at www.simonwiffen.co.uk