Rock’n Roll has long been a staple in music. It has also been an artistic arena severely lacking in queer representation. While many of todays bands and artists refrence being heavily influenced by Bowie, Queen, Elton, Janis, Joan Jett and others, the number of out artists in the “Rock” vein of music continues to be minimal.
Enter UK Emo Rockers Second Cities. With a sound that falls in sync with artists like My Chemical Romance, Yellow Card, The Red Jumpsuit and even Paramore, Second Cities has been steadily gaining momentum in industry interest and a feverishly growing fanbase. All the while unapologetically proud to be fronted by openly queer lead singer Jamie Martin.
With the power and passion the band is generating for queer and straight audiences alike, we caught up with Jamie for a Q&A to help folks learn a little more the man and the band. It’s time to get to know your new obsession Second Cities!
What first got you into music?
The idea of being able to escape into my own little world for a while?
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
I wouldn’t say so, I have a relative in a band too, but we’re the only two.
Who are the artists that inspired you to make music?
Green Day, My Chemical Romance, Lady Gaga, Joan Jett.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Melancholic Emo Vibes
How would you describe your creative process and how you approach music?
It’s very dependent on the subject matter, half of the time we just jam in the studio and Jamie (Me, Vocalist) will write lyrics in his own time.
Who would be your dream artists to collaborate with?
Too many to count! Gerrard Way Hmu tho!
Has your music style changed much since you first started creating music?
I’d say i’ve become more accepting in diversifying my genre tastes.
If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?
I’d love to open for a Miley Cyrus show, she’d be so different but she seems like her shows are WILD.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
We represent those who feel like fringe folk, and wish to create a family that celebrates diversity through our music, expressing that its okay to not feel okay sometimes, but it’s also important to live your truth. If you feel like that, come join us. <3
What is the most useless talent you have?
I can make origami in freezing weather.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Our lockdown music video proves that, mainly local artists that people haven’t listened too enough off!
What do you get up to when you’re not making music?
I’m always doing something band related, It’s too enjoyable not to.
Where are the kinds of venues you have performed in?
O2 Academys/Institutes in the UK, We’d like to play more gay clubs though.
What are your favourite and least favourite types of venues?
Dive bars, especially bars where fringe folk like to hang.
How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?
It’s made it more accesible for most to get into, but the playing field got a whole lot bigger!
What is your favorite thing about making music?
Being able to write about how im feeling in the moment, and create a sound that reflects that.
What is your least favorite thing about making music?
Not being able to switch off! Sitting at night trying to sleep but not being able to until you’ve finished that little idea.
What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?
I think its the unity it brings between people, I like the idea of people being able to unify through our music.
What is your favourite song to perform and why?
Emo, because it’s always been the vibes of music i’ve enjoyed.
Which famous musicians do you admire?
Gerrard Way, Billie Joe Armstrong – he’s a big one actually, he’s what helped me come to term with my own sexuality and made me feel okay about it.
Have you played any Pride festivals? What was the experience like?
Not yet, but we’d love too!
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Be yourself, **** the haters.
How do practice self care while dealing with the challenges of the music industry?
Remove myself from stressful situations, take a outside eye approach and reapproach a different day.
Do you follow a process or ritual before a performance to get rid of nerves or performance anxiety?
Nope, i just let it all out on stage.
What advice would you give to someone staring out in music?
Don’t stop, hit the ground running and be sure to make lots of friends.
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
I’d cut down on talent shows.
What does the next year look like for you?
Very very full of enjoyment with friends and loved ones.
Describe your worst performance. What did you learn from this experience?
Don’t book yourself in to a fairly right wing establishment…
If you were stranded on an island and could only have one album with you, which one would it be and why?
American Idiot, some of the songs are like 11 minutes, how can you get bored of that?
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