Despite finding a home on a major label back in 2011, Liverpool-based singer and songwriter Katie Foulkes aka Delta Maid found it hard to navigate the very real business side to the industry. So she decided to pull herself away from that world and keep her musical ambitions a private affair. But after a nine-year hiatus, she is back with a brand new album, arriving on the 5th June.
Previewed by the wonderfully soulful new offering You Better Run, this sweeping new jam sees her follow in the footsteps of artists like Lianna La Havas and Gabriella Cilmi with its soft and sweet aesthetic.
So with her return now back on the cards, we caught up with her to find out more about her earliest beginnings and what began this journey for her.
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Although most of the music I make now is predominately guitar-led, the first instrument I fell in love with was the piano. It was the first instrument I learned to play, and I will always have a soft spot for it.
What has been the most prominent inspiration behind your music so far?
I have pockets of inspiration, but when it comes on heavy, it is usually as a result of something that has rocked me on an emotional or mental level.
What kind of music did you love as a teenager?
I was into all kinds, I still maintained my love for old-school blues, but I was also into bands like The Verve, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and female singer-songwriters like Lauryn Hill, Alanis Morrisette. Had a huge penchant for 90’s RnB too.
Can you remember the first song that made you want to pursue a life in music?
I can’t really pin it down to one, unless I have a terrible memory. I remember playing Jewel’s ‘Pieces of You’ album over and over again when I was young. That transformation of personal expression into music through a very female perspective sparked something in me. I didn’t actually write until years later, but those kinds of listening experiences are indelible, I guess.
When you wake up in the morning, what kind of music do you like to listen to?
I don’t tend to listen to a lot of music in the morning but if I do it usually has to be pretty calming and soothing, maybe some relaxing jazz instrumentals.
How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?
All the songs I’ve written have been about people I know or have heard a story about.
What has been the most memorable moment in your career so far?
I’ve had some memorable moments in the past that I’m very grateful for but coming back after a nine-year hiatus and releasing a single called Better Love after all this time was a highlight for me.
Outside of music, what is your biggest passion?
Family, friends, life itself.
If you weren’t a musician, what other path do you think you might have taken?
I was a training to be a vascular scientist before I made a career change into music years ago. Maybe I would still be looking at arteries and veins.
And what advice would you give to other musicians looking to stay productive through the coronavirus lockdown?
I can only really say what can work for me! Try not to dwell on future outcomes (you cannot predict the future), stay in the present. Swerve the perfectionism; doing something is better than nothing at all. Don’t be tempted to sell-out or do something that goes against your authenticity either out of fear or because other people are doing it. Stay true to who you are.
Delta Maid’s new single You Better Run is available to stream and download now, and her new album is set to arrive on the 5th June.
By FM
