Jump to content

Rob Lear: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous editNext edit →
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
m https
Script-assisted fixes: per MOS:NUM, MOS:CAPS, MOS:LINK
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2020}}
{{dablinks|date=August 2020}}
{{dablinks|date=August 2020}}
{{Infobox musical artist
{{Infobox musical artist
Line 8: Line 9:
| origin = Wales
| origin = Wales
| birth_date = [[Mid Glamorgan]], Wales
| birth_date = [[Mid Glamorgan]], Wales
| genre = [[Acoustic]], [[Singer-songwriter]], [[Folk Rock]], [[Pop music|Pop]], [[Country Folk]], [[Indie rock]], [[Alternative rock]], [[Americana]], [[Cymru-cana]]
| genre = [[Acoustic]], singer-songwriter, [[Folk Rock]], Pop, [[Country Folk]], [[Indie rock]], [[Alternative rock]], [[Americana]], [[Cymru-cana]]
| occupation = [[Singing|Singer]], [[Songwriter]]
| occupation = Singer, songwriter
| years_active = 1995–present
| years_active = 1995–present
| instrument = [[Vocals]] [[Guitar]] [[Keyboards]] [[Ukulele]] [[Mandolin]]
| instrument = Vocals guitar keyboards [[ukulele]] [[mandolin]]
| associated_acts = [[Lear]]<br /> [[Proud Marys]]<br /> [[Mark Purnell]]<br /> [[dunkie]]<br /> [[Katie Waisell]]<br /> [[Edge of Universe]]<br /> [[Lua Sonique]]<br />
| associated_acts = [[Lear]]<br /> [[Proud Marys]]<br /> [[Mark Purnell]]<br /> [[dunkie]]<br /> [[Katie Waisell]]<br /> [[Edge of Universe]]<br /> [[Lua Sonique]]<br />
| website = [http://www.roblearmusic.com roblearmusic.com]
| website = [http://www.roblearmusic.com roblearmusic.com]
Line 17: Line 18:
}}
}}


'''Rob Lear''' is a [[Wales|Welsh]]-based [[Singing|singer]]-[[songwriter]]. He began his career as the principal songwriter and lead singer of Welsh bands [[Lear]] and the [[Proud Marys]]. An early solo performance came supporting [[Rue Royale (band)|Rue Royale]] on January 27th 2013 in the venue 10 Feet Tall<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.getawriggleon.com/guides/cardiff/10-feet-tall</ref>, [[Cardiff]].
'''Rob Lear''' is a Welsh-based singer-songwriter. He began his career as the principal songwriter and lead singer of Welsh bands [[Lear]] and the [[Proud Marys]]. An early solo performance came supporting [[Rue Royale (band)|Rue Royale]] on 27 January 2013 in the venue 10 Feet Tall<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.getawriggleon.com/guides/cardiff/10-feet-tall</ref>, [[Cardiff]].


His music has seen him tour the [[UK]] and [[Europe]], including a residency at [[Liverpool]]’s [[Cavern Club]], performances at [[Wembley Arena]] and playing support to [[Amy Wadge]], [[Henry Priestman]], [[Bernard Butler]] and [[Ian McCulloch]]. As a dedicated song-smith he has also been sought after to co-write songs from [[Country (music)|Country]] to [[R&B]], has co-written for UK [[X-Factor]] Quarter-finalist [[Katie Waissel]], [[Spain|Spanish]] [[Electronic dance music]] artist [[Edge of Universe]] and [[Electronic dance music]] [[Ramsgate]], [[England]] based trio [[Lua Sonique]]<ref>https://www.bbc.co.uk/music/artists/d6b4a3ec-3810-4225-9a5d-2d318a3be43c</ref>.
His music has seen him tour the UK and Europe, including a residency at [[Liverpool]]’s [[Cavern Club]], performances at [[Wembley Arena]] and playing support to [[Amy Wadge]], [[Henry Priestman]], [[Bernard Butler]] and [[Ian McCulloch]]. As a dedicated song-smith he has also been sought after to co-write songs from [[Country (music)|Country]] to [[R&B]], has co-written for UK [[X-Factor]] Quarter-finalist [[Katie Waissel]], Spanish [[Electronic dance music]] artist [[Edge of Universe]] and [[Electronic dance music]] [[Ramsgate]], England based trio [[Lua Sonique]]<ref>https://www.bbc.co.uk/music/artists/d6b4a3ec-3810-4225-9a5d-2d318a3be43c</ref>.
He has also written songs for animated films, as well as for the 2012 British motion picture musical "[[Rain: An Original Musical (film)|Rain: An Original Musical]]"<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2215435/</ref> (aka 'Summertime') by [[Tornado Independent Films Ltd]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://cineuropa.org/en/prodcompany/157079/</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://film-directory.britishcouncil.org/summertime</ref> and Directed by [[Maxine Evans]]<ref>https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1468768/</ref>.
He has also written songs for animated films, as well as for the 2012 British motion picture musical "[[Rain: An Original Musical (film)|Rain: An Original Musical]]"<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2215435/</ref> (aka 'Summertime') by [[Tornado Independent Films Ltd]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://cineuropa.org/en/prodcompany/157079/</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://film-directory.britishcouncil.org/summertime</ref> and Directed by [[Maxine Evans]]<ref>https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1468768/</ref>.


Lear was voted the best live act{{Citation needed|date=November 2011}} while touring [[Scotland]], during which he played in support of [[Mark Morriss]], [[Dodgy]], [[Mystery Jets]], [[Tom Hingley]], [[Stories (band)|Stories]], [[The Crocketts]] and [[Thousand Reasons]].<ref name="Echo review">{{cite web | url=http://www.walesonline.co.uk/showbiz-and-lifestyle/music-in-wales/2011/07/12/review-futuretown-rob-lear-10-feet-tall-cardiff-91466-29034213/#ixzz1RzrSKof4 | title=Rob Lear Review | work=South Wales Echo | author=Dave Owens | date=12 July 2011 | accessdate=17 September 2011}}</ref>
Lear was voted the best live act{{Citation needed|date=November 2011}} while touring [[Scotland]], during which he played in support of [[Mark Morriss]], [[Dodgy]], [[Mystery Jets]], [[Tom Hingley]], [[Stories (band)|Stories]], [[The Crocketts]] and [[Thousand Reasons]].<ref name="Echo review">{{cite web | url=http://www.walesonline.co.uk/showbiz-and-lifestyle/music-in-wales/2011/07/12/review-futuretown-rob-lear-10-feet-tall-cardiff-91466-29034213/#ixzz1RzrSKof4 | title=Rob Lear Review | work=South Wales Echo | author=Dave Owens | date=12 July 2011 | accessdate=17 September 2011}}</ref>


The Rob Lear Band blends instrumentalists including [[Van Morrison]] bassist '''Pete Hurley''', African rhythm student '''Liz Mullins''', Country Music guitarist '''Brett Green''', Back Of Beyond’s drummer '''Tim Robinson''' and flautist & acoustic guitarist '''Terry Payne'''.
The Rob Lear Band blends instrumentalists including [[Van Morrison]] bassist '''Pete Hurley''', African rhythm student '''Liz Mullins''', Country Music guitarist '''Brett Green''', Back Of Beyond's drummer '''Tim Robinson''' and flautist & acoustic guitarist '''Terry Payne'''.


==History==
==History==


===2010-2012: Solo beginnings and ''Little Acorns'' and the ''A Million Stars: A Mini Album''===
===2010–2012: Solo beginnings and ''Little Acorns'' and the ''A Million Stars: A Mini Album''===


From August 2010 to June 2011 Lear wrote and recorded a number of songs for the 2012 [[South Wales]] based film "[[Rain: An Original Musical (film)|Rain: An Original Musical]]"<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2215435/</ref> (aka 'Summertime') released by [[Tornado Independent Films Ltd]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://cineuropa.org/en/prodcompany/157079/</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://film-directory.britishcouncil.org/summertime</ref>. The songs included, in the [[Soundtrack]], were 'Two Steps Behind You', 'We’re So Young', 'The Cull-de-sac Tango' and 'Fight scene theme'.
From August 2010 to June 2011 Lear wrote and recorded a number of songs for the 2012 [[South Wales]] based film "[[Rain: An Original Musical (film)|Rain: An Original Musical]]"<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2215435/</ref> (aka 'Summertime') released by [[Tornado Independent Films Ltd]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://cineuropa.org/en/prodcompany/157079/</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://film-directory.britishcouncil.org/summertime</ref>. The songs included, in the Soundtrack, were 'Two Steps Behind You', 'We’re So Young', 'The Cull-de-sac Tango' and 'Fight scene theme'.


Lear’s first solo recording, ‘A Million Stars’, was a six track Mini Album/E.P., the success of which resulted in the title track becoming Welsh Single of the Week on [[BBC Radio Wales]], as featured on the [[Roy Noble]] show <ref name="BBC Radio Wales">{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0149487 | title=Rob Lear Radio Interview| work=BBC Radio Wales | author=Rob Noble | date=20 September 2011 | accessdate=21 August 2020}}</ref>. Rob’s second single ‘Little Acorns’, produced by celebrated producer [[Greg Haver]] was also made Welsh Single of the Week on [[BBC Radio Wales]]. Following these releases Lear linked up with a unique and eclectic supporting band of musicians which added "[[djembe]]", "[[accordion]]", "[[bass guitar]]" and "[[guitar]]" to the live line-up.
Lear’s first solo recording, ‘A Million Stars’, was a six track Mini Album/E.P., the success of which resulted in the title track becoming Welsh Single of the Week on [[BBC Radio Wales]], as featured on the [[Roy Noble]] show<ref name="BBC Radio Wales">{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0149487 | title=Rob Lear Radio Interview| work=BBC Radio Wales | author=Rob Noble | date=20 September 2011 | accessdate=21 August 2020}}</ref>. Rob's second single ‘Little Acorns’, produced by celebrated producer [[Greg Haver]] was also made Welsh Single of the Week on [[BBC Radio Wales]]. Following these releases Lear linked up with a unique and eclectic supporting band of musicians which added "[[djembe]]", "[[accordion]]", "bass guitar" and "guitar" to the live line-up.


Between February and April 2012 Lear co-wrote and recorded the songs 'Air', 'Everyone Everything' and 'Reflections (Physics)' for the 'No More Silence EP' by [[Spanish Language]] [[Emo]] Musician [[Alen Seed]] release, [[Modern World]] Studio produced by [[Greg Haver]].
Between February and April 2012 Lear co-wrote and recorded the songs 'Air', 'Everyone Everything' and 'Reflections (Physics)' for the 'No More Silence EP' by Spanish Language [[Emo]] Musician [[Alen Seed]] release, [[Modern World]] Studio produced by [[Greg Haver]].


During May 2012 he teamed up with 2011 UK [[X Factor]] Quarter-finalist [[Katie Waissel]] and her band The Red Velvet Lovers at [[Tetbury]], [[England]] and co-wrote the songs 'Geek Chic' and 'Straight up, Straight laced'. These songs appear on her 2020 self-titled solo album ('Geek Chic' is renamed 'Geek').<ref>https://open.spotify.com/album/5JmoMce3o3uuwd1jR8p6V8?si=g-qrI9XpQKao3EaF7EJDyQ</ref>
During May 2012 he teamed up with 2011 UK [[X Factor]] Quarter-finalist [[Katie Waissel]] and her band The Red Velvet Lovers at [[Tetbury]], England and co-wrote the songs 'Geek Chic' and 'Straight up, Straight laced'. These songs appear on her 2020 self-titled solo album ('Geek Chic' is renamed 'Geek').<ref>https://open.spotify.com/album/5JmoMce3o3uuwd1jR8p6V8?si=g-qrI9XpQKao3EaF7EJDyQ</ref>


===2013-2015: The release of debut studio album ''Let It Go''===
===2013–2015: The release of debut studio album ''Let It Go''===
On the back of the success of 'Little Acorns' and 'A Million Star: A Mini Album' Lear released the debut album 'Let It Go' a further success and the release saw Lear become Welsh Artist of The Week for two consecutive weeks via [[BBC Radio Wales]].<ref name="The Roy Noble Show">{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0149487 | title=Welsh Artist of The Week| work=BBC Radio Wales | author=Louise Elliott | date=6 March 2013 | accessdate=21 August 2020}}</ref><ref name="The Louise Elliott Show">{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01r6g4n | title=Welsh Artist of The Week| work=BBC Radio Wales | author=Louise Elliott | date=13 March 2013 | accessdate=21 August 2020}}</ref>
On the back of the success of 'Little Acorns' and 'A Million Star: A Mini Album' Lear released the debut album 'Let It Go' a further success and the release saw Lear become Welsh Artist of The Week for two consecutive weeks via [[BBC Radio Wales]].<ref name="The Roy Noble Show">{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0149487 | title=Welsh Artist of The Week| work=BBC Radio Wales | author=Louise Elliott | date=6 March 2013 | accessdate=21 August 2020}}</ref><ref name="The Louise Elliott Show">{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01r6g4n | title=Welsh Artist of The Week| work=BBC Radio Wales | author=Louise Elliott | date=13 March 2013 | accessdate=21 August 2020}}</ref>


The success of the Let It Go release was quickly followed by appearances playing a host of shows and summer festivals alongside the likes of [[Seth Lakeman]], [[Show of Hands]], [[The Mystery Jets]], [[Hayseed Dixie]] and [[Martin Simpson]].
The success of the Let It Go release was quickly followed by appearances playing a host of shows and summer festivals alongside the likes of [[Seth Lakeman]], [[Show of Hands]], [[The Mystery Jets]], [[Hayseed Dixie]] and [[Martin Simpson]].


''“If nothing happens to these songs then the record industry must have s*** in their ears”'' – Kingsley Ward, Founder of [[Rockfield Studios]] <ref name="WalesOnline Review">{{cite web | url=https://www.walesonline.co.uk/lifestyle/showbiz/review-futuretown-rob-lear--1820789 | title=Futuretown & Rob Lear Review | work=WalesOnline | author=Dave Owens | date=12 July 2011 | accessdate=22 March 2013}}</ref>
''"If nothing happens to these songs then the record industry must have s*** in their ears"'' – Kingsley Ward, Founder of [[Rockfield Studios]]<ref name="WalesOnline Review">{{cite web | url=https://www.walesonline.co.uk/lifestyle/showbiz/review-futuretown-rob-lear--1820789 | title=Futuretown & Rob Lear Review | work=WalesOnline | author=Dave Owens | date=12 July 2011 | accessdate=22 March 2013}}</ref>


About recording the album Lear has said ''"there are some personal stories that I don't mind telling people about, like (the song) No Way Home which follows the story of my mother's grandmother's family who sold everything to leave [[Dublin]], jump on a boat and come to [[Cardiff]] to find work. Selling up in a time when there were no benefits and taking that step looking for a better life seemed like a courageous thing to do. Others songs are personal, but in a more emphatic way where I've drawn inspiration on a situation where I've been an observer"''.<ref name="Plugged In Magazine Wales">{{cite web | url=https://issuu.com/plugged_in_magazine/docs/plugged_in_issue_17 | title=Rob Lear Interview | work=Plugged In Magazine Wales | author=Jessica Risby, Stephen Round, Dexter Walkley, Sam Rees and Darren Warner | issue=17}}</ref>
About recording the album Lear has said ''"there are some personal stories that I don't mind telling people about, like (the song) No Way Home which follows the story of my mother's grandmother's family who sold everything to leave [[Dublin]], jump on a boat and come to [[Cardiff]] to find work. Selling up in a time when there were no benefits and taking that step looking for a better life seemed like a courageous thing to do. Others songs are personal, but in a more emphatic way where I've drawn inspiration on a situation where I've been an observer"''.<ref name="Plugged In Magazine Wales">{{cite web | url=https://issuu.com/plugged_in_magazine/docs/plugged_in_issue_17 | title=Rob Lear Interview | work=Plugged in Magazine Wales | author=Jessica Risby, Stephen Round, Dexter Walkley, Sam Rees and Darren Warner | issue=17}}</ref>


During May 2014 Lear provided Top-Line melody work and vocal recording for [[Ramsgate]] based [[Electronic dance music]] artists [[Lua Sonique]] on their release of 'It All'<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxxKszdmlM0&</ref>, playlisted on [[BBC Radio One]], [[BBC Introducing]] in 2015 as 'Record of The Week' in conjunction with their 'Lines' album '.<ref name="Abbie McCarthy">{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02nlv2s | title=Record of The Week| work=BBC Music Introducing in Kent | author=BBC Radio | date=11 April 2015 | accessdate=21 August 2020}}</ref>
During May 2014 Lear provided Top-Line melody work and vocal recording for [[Ramsgate]] based [[Electronic dance music]] artists [[Lua Sonique]] on their release of 'It All'<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxxKszdmlM0&</ref>, playlisted on [[BBC Radio One]], [[BBC Introducing]] in 2015 as 'Record of The Week' in conjunction with their 'Lines' album '.<ref name="Abbie McCarthy">{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02nlv2s | title=Record of The Week| work=BBC Music Introducing in Kent | author=BBC Radio | date=11 April 2015 | accessdate=21 August 2020}}</ref>


2015 saw Lear collaborate with another [[Electronic dance music]] musician, this time with [[Spain|Spanish]] [[Electronic dance music]] artist [[Edge of Universe]] (aka Alen Seed) on the track 'Ama La Vida'. The [[Latin pop]] track featured Lear on co-writing and vocal duties, the track also featured [[Leo Diaz]].<ref>https://open.spotify.com/album/6KOMOd9PJ2SwUVY6LvA7Cd</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21dGQe6_8DU</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mT12LESBlc</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QY_ciVZfH0c</ref>
2015 saw Lear collaborate with another [[Electronic dance music]] musician, this time with Spanish [[Electronic dance music]] artist [[Edge of Universe]] (aka Alen Seed) on the track 'Ama La Vida'. The [[Latin pop]] track featured Lear on co-writing and vocal duties, the track also featured [[Leo Diaz]].<ref>https://open.spotify.com/album/6KOMOd9PJ2SwUVY6LvA7Cd</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21dGQe6_8DU</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mT12LESBlc</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QY_ciVZfH0c</ref>


===2016-2019: The release of second studio album ''Motorcycle Heart''===
===2016–2019: The release of second studio album ''Motorcycle Heart''===
From his base in the Welsh valleys, 2016 saw the release of Lear’s second album, ‘Motorcycle Heart’, and as with his debut album ‘Let It Go’, once again, Rob teamed up with [[Richard Thompson (musician)]]’s Grammy nominated [[Producer (music)]] (from their work on the album "[[Dream Attic]]") Simon Tassano <ref>{{cite web | url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dream_Attic</ref> as co-producer along with Cardiff's Ty Drwg Studio's, Frank Naughton.
From his base in the Welsh valleys, 2016 saw the release of Lear’s second album, ‘Motorcycle Heart’, and as with his debut album ‘Let It Go’, once again, Rob teamed up with [[Richard Thompson (musician)]]’s Grammy nominated [[Producer (music)]] (from their work on the album "[[Dream Attic]]") Simon Tassano<ref>{{cite web | url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dream_Attic</ref> as co-producer along with Cardiff's Ty Drwg Studio's, Frank Naughton.


The album blended all the skills and influences of Lear’s band to produce 12 tracks that bridged [[Americana]], [[Folk]], [[Country Music]] and [[Pop]]. The songs themselves took their inspiration from Lear’s experience growing up in a homestead dominated by motorcycles and motorcyclists and the unique characters and stories that flowed from them.
The album blended all the skills and influences of Lear’s band to produce 12 tracks that bridged [[Americana]], [[Folk]], [[Country Music]] and [[Pop]]. The songs themselves took their inspiration from Lear's experience growing up in a homestead dominated by motorcycles and motorcyclists and the unique characters and stories that flowed from them.


During 2018, 2019 and 2020 Lear provided [[Vocals]], [[Keyboards]] and [[Guitar]] for the tracks "Rabbit Hole"<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaSNT6bTPbs</ref><ref>https://open.spotify.com/track/5NeiZSQxl0d0BBzjAwstye?si=cIa9oP78SqCZjPKcYMoTzA</ref>, "I Don't Wanna Die In Minnesota {Part II}"<ref>https://open.spotify.com/track/3neu4Sg2ZxAYufAmTMEBN4?si=ubWcQBx2RsigyhZ6ni0q6w</ref> and "Choke" for the album "Working To Design"<ref>https://open.spotify.com/album/2XbkVYf3jxMWGuVeRaFlur?si=oUjk0bR2SlO37zoEShn8qQ</ref> by [[Wales|Welsh]] [[Singing|singer]]-[[songwriter]] Anthony Price<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bigtakeover.com/recordings/DunkieWorkingToDesignSWNDRecords</ref> (under musical pseudonym name "[[dunkie]]").<ref>{{cite web|url=https://eclecticmusiclover.com/2020/02/05/dunkie-album-review-working-to-design/</ref>. He also appeared within the "[[dunkie]]" live band set in early 2020 providing [[Synth]], [[Percussion]] and [[Backing Vocals]] duties alongside Terry Phillips ([[Acoustic Guitar]] and [[Electric Guitar]]), Adam Price ([[Electric Guitar]]), Dorian Richard Holmes ([[Bass Guitar]]), Charlotte Jayne Goodwin ([[Trumpet]] and [[Violin]]), Gareth Anthony ([[Piano]] / [[Keyboard]]), Adam Gregory ([[Drums]]) and [[Music Producer]] Wayne Bassett ([[Electric Guitar]]).
During 2018, 2019 and 2020 Lear provided Vocals, Keyboards and Guitar for the tracks "Rabbit Hole"<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaSNT6bTPbs</ref><ref>https://open.spotify.com/track/5NeiZSQxl0d0BBzjAwstye?si=cIa9oP78SqCZjPKcYMoTzA</ref>, "I Don't Wanna Die In Minnesota {Part II}"<ref>https://open.spotify.com/track/3neu4Sg2ZxAYufAmTMEBN4?si=ubWcQBx2RsigyhZ6ni0q6w</ref> and "Choke" for the album "Working To Design"<ref>https://open.spotify.com/album/2XbkVYf3jxMWGuVeRaFlur?si=oUjk0bR2SlO37zoEShn8qQ</ref> by Welsh singer-songwriter Anthony Price<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bigtakeover.com/recordings/DunkieWorkingToDesignSWNDRecords</ref> (under musical pseudonym name "[[dunkie]]").<ref>{{cite web|url=https://eclecticmusiclover.com/2020/02/05/dunkie-album-review-working-to-design/</ref>. He also appeared within the "[[dunkie]]" live band set in early 2020 providing [[Synth]], Percussion and Backing Vocals duties alongside Terry Phillips (Acoustic Guitar and Electric Guitar), Adam Price (Electric Guitar), Dorian Richard Holmes (Bass Guitar), Charlotte Jayne Goodwin (Trumpet and Violin), Gareth Anthony (Piano / Keyboard), Adam Gregory (Drums) and Music Producer Wayne Bassett (Electric Guitar).


===2020: Writing and recording for the forthcoming album===
===2020: Writing and recording for the forthcoming album===
Line 77: Line 78:
#Just Love
#Just Love
#HeartStrings
#HeartStrings
#Hearts On The Radio
#Hearts on the Radio
#Strange Birds
#Strange Birds
#No Way Home
#No Way Home
#I Want It Back
#I Want It Back
#Coming Down
#Coming Down
*''[[Motorcycle Heart (album)|Motorcycle Heart]]'' (2016, May 1st)
*''[[Motorcycle Heart (album)|Motorcycle Heart]]'' (2016, 1 May)
#Grace
#Grace
#Look Me Up
#Look Me Up
#Light Of My Life
#Light of My Life
#Michael
#Michael
#Strung Out
#Strung Out
Line 99: Line 100:
==External links==
==External links==
*[http://www.roblearmusic.com/ Official website]
*[http://www.roblearmusic.com/ Official website]
*[https://issuu.com/plugged_in_magazine/docs/plugged_in_issue_17 Interview with Plugged In Magazine Wales, pp 18-19]
*[https://issuu.com/plugged_in_magazine/docs/plugged_in_issue_17 Interview with Plugged In Magazine Wales, pp 18–19]
*[https://www.facebook.com/roblearmusic/ Facebook Page]
*[https://www.facebook.com/roblearmusic/ Facebook Page]
*[http://www.roblearmusic.com/discography.html Rob Lear's Discography]
*[http://www.roblearmusic.com/discography.html Rob Lear's Discography]
Line 105: Line 106:
==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}
<ref>https://issuu.com/plugged_in_magazine/docs/plugged_in_issue_17, pp 18-19</ref>
<ref>https://issuu.com/plugged_in_magazine/docs/plugged_in_issue_17, pp 18–19</ref>
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}


Revision as of 12:55, 24 August 2020

Rob Lear
Birth nameRobert Lear
BornMid Glamorgan, Wales
OriginWales
GenresAcoustic, singer-songwriter, Folk Rock, Pop, Country Folk, Indie rock, Alternative rock, Americana, Cymru-cana
Occupation(s)Singer, songwriter
InstrumentVocals guitar keyboards ukulele mandolin
Years active1995–present
MembersRob Lear
Terry Payne
Pete Hurley
Liz Mullins
Brett Green
Tim Robinson
Websiteroblearmusic.com

Rob Lear is a Welsh-based singer-songwriter. He began his career as the principal songwriter and lead singer of Welsh bands Lear and the Proud Marys. An early solo performance came supporting Rue Royale on 27 January 2013 in the venue 10 Feet Tall[1], Cardiff.

His music has seen him tour the UK and Europe, including a residency at Liverpool’s Cavern Club, performances at Wembley Arena and playing support to Amy Wadge, Henry Priestman, Bernard Butler and Ian McCulloch. As a dedicated song-smith he has also been sought after to co-write songs from Country to R&B, has co-written for UK X-Factor Quarter-finalist Katie Waissel, Spanish Electronic dance music artist Edge of Universe and Electronic dance music Ramsgate, England based trio Lua Sonique[2]. He has also written songs for animated films, as well as for the 2012 British motion picture musical "Rain: An Original Musical"[3] (aka 'Summertime') by Tornado Independent Films Ltd[4][5] and Directed by Maxine Evans[6].

Lear was voted the best live act[citation needed] while touring Scotland, during which he played in support of Mark Morriss, Dodgy, Mystery Jets, Tom Hingley, Stories, The Crocketts and Thousand Reasons.[7]

The Rob Lear Band blends instrumentalists including Van Morrison bassist Pete Hurley, African rhythm student Liz Mullins, Country Music guitarist Brett Green, Back Of Beyond's drummer Tim Robinson and flautist & acoustic guitarist Terry Payne.

History

2010–2012: Solo beginnings and Little Acorns and the A Million Stars: A Mini Album

From August 2010 to June 2011 Lear wrote and recorded a number of songs for the 2012 South Wales based film "Rain: An Original Musical"[8] (aka 'Summertime') released by Tornado Independent Films Ltd[9][10]. The songs included, in the Soundtrack, were 'Two Steps Behind You', 'We’re So Young', 'The Cull-de-sac Tango' and 'Fight scene theme'.

Lear’s first solo recording, ‘A Million Stars’, was a six track Mini Album/E.P., the success of which resulted in the title track becoming Welsh Single of the Week on BBC Radio Wales, as featured on the Roy Noble show[11]. Rob's second single ‘Little Acorns’, produced by celebrated producer Greg Haver was also made Welsh Single of the Week on BBC Radio Wales. Following these releases Lear linked up with a unique and eclectic supporting band of musicians which added "djembe", "accordion", "bass guitar" and "guitar" to the live line-up.

Between February and April 2012 Lear co-wrote and recorded the songs 'Air', 'Everyone Everything' and 'Reflections (Physics)' for the 'No More Silence EP' by Spanish Language Emo Musician Alen Seed release, Modern World Studio produced by Greg Haver.

During May 2012 he teamed up with 2011 UK X Factor Quarter-finalist Katie Waissel and her band The Red Velvet Lovers at Tetbury, England and co-wrote the songs 'Geek Chic' and 'Straight up, Straight laced'. These songs appear on her 2020 self-titled solo album ('Geek Chic' is renamed 'Geek').[12]

2013–2015: The release of debut studio album Let It Go

On the back of the success of 'Little Acorns' and 'A Million Star: A Mini Album' Lear released the debut album 'Let It Go' a further success and the release saw Lear become Welsh Artist of The Week for two consecutive weeks via BBC Radio Wales.[13][14]

The success of the Let It Go release was quickly followed by appearances playing a host of shows and summer festivals alongside the likes of Seth Lakeman, Show of Hands, The Mystery Jets, Hayseed Dixie and Martin Simpson.

"If nothing happens to these songs then the record industry must have s*** in their ears" – Kingsley Ward, Founder of Rockfield Studios[15]

About recording the album Lear has said "there are some personal stories that I don't mind telling people about, like (the song) No Way Home which follows the story of my mother's grandmother's family who sold everything to leave Dublin, jump on a boat and come to Cardiff to find work. Selling up in a time when there were no benefits and taking that step looking for a better life seemed like a courageous thing to do. Others songs are personal, but in a more emphatic way where I've drawn inspiration on a situation where I've been an observer".[16]

During May 2014 Lear provided Top-Line melody work and vocal recording for Ramsgate based Electronic dance music artists Lua Sonique on their release of 'It All'[17], playlisted on BBC Radio One, BBC Introducing in 2015 as 'Record of The Week' in conjunction with their 'Lines' album '.[18]

2015 saw Lear collaborate with another Electronic dance music musician, this time with Spanish Electronic dance music artist Edge of Universe (aka Alen Seed) on the track 'Ama La Vida'. The Latin pop track featured Lear on co-writing and vocal duties, the track also featured Leo Diaz.[19][20][21][22]

2016–2019: The release of second studio album Motorcycle Heart

From his base in the Welsh valleys, 2016 saw the release of Lear’s second album, ‘Motorcycle Heart’, and as with his debut album ‘Let It Go’, once again, Rob teamed up with Richard Thompson (musician)’s Grammy nominated Producer (music) (from their work on the album "Dream Attic") Simon Tassano[23] as co-producer along with Cardiff's Ty Drwg Studio's, Frank Naughton.

The album blended all the skills and influences of Lear’s band to produce 12 tracks that bridged Americana, Folk, Country Music and Pop. The songs themselves took their inspiration from Lear's experience growing up in a homestead dominated by motorcycles and motorcyclists and the unique characters and stories that flowed from them.

During 2018, 2019 and 2020 Lear provided Vocals, Keyboards and Guitar for the tracks "Rabbit Hole"[24][25], "I Don't Wanna Die In Minnesota {Part II}"[26] and "Choke" for the album "Working To Design"[27] by Welsh singer-songwriter Anthony Price[28] (under musical pseudonym name "dunkie").[29]. He also appeared within the "dunkie" live band set in early 2020 providing Synth, Percussion and Backing Vocals duties alongside Terry Phillips (Acoustic Guitar and Electric Guitar), Adam Price (Electric Guitar), Dorian Richard Holmes (Bass Guitar), Charlotte Jayne Goodwin (Trumpet and Violin), Gareth Anthony (Piano / Keyboard), Adam Gregory (Drums) and Music Producer Wayne Bassett (Electric Guitar).

2020: Writing and recording for the forthcoming album

Discography

Main article: Rob Lear: Solo Discography
  1. A Million Stars
  2. Beautiful Face
  3. Snowblind
  4. Willow
  5. Heaven Help
  6. I Saw Her
  1. Never Do
  2. Elvis
  3. What You Do
  4. Let It Go
  5. Christine
  6. Just Love
  7. HeartStrings
  8. Hearts on the Radio
  9. Strange Birds
  10. No Way Home
  11. I Want It Back
  12. Coming Down
  1. Grace
  2. Look Me Up
  3. Light of My Life
  4. Michael
  5. Strung Out
  6. Didn't I
  7. Who
  8. Elfinman
  9. Carry On
  10. Too Beautiful
  11. Beseeched
  12. I Want You

References

  1. ^ {{cite web | url=https://www.getawriggleon.com/guides/cardiff/10-feet-tall
  2. ^ https://www.bbc.co.uk/music/artists/d6b4a3ec-3810-4225-9a5d-2d318a3be43c
  3. ^ {{cite web | url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2215435/
  4. ^ {{cite web | url=https://cineuropa.org/en/prodcompany/157079/
  5. ^ {{cite web | url=http://film-directory.britishcouncil.org/summertime
  6. ^ https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1468768/
  7. ^ Dave Owens (12 July 2011). "Rob Lear Review". South Wales Echo. Retrieved 17 September 2011.
  8. ^ {{cite web | url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2215435/
  9. ^ {{cite web | url=https://cineuropa.org/en/prodcompany/157079/
  10. ^ {{cite web | url=http://film-directory.britishcouncil.org/summertime
  11. ^ Rob Noble (20 September 2011). "Rob Lear Radio Interview". BBC Radio Wales. Retrieved 21 August 2020.
  12. ^ https://open.spotify.com/album/5JmoMce3o3uuwd1jR8p6V8?si=g-qrI9XpQKao3EaF7EJDyQ
  13. ^ Louise Elliott (6 March 2013). "Welsh Artist of The Week". BBC Radio Wales. Retrieved 21 August 2020.
  14. ^ Louise Elliott (13 March 2013). "Welsh Artist of The Week". BBC Radio Wales. Retrieved 21 August 2020.
  15. ^ Dave Owens (12 July 2011). "Futuretown & Rob Lear Review". WalesOnline. Retrieved 22 March 2013.
  16. ^ Jessica Risby, Stephen Round, Dexter Walkley, Sam Rees and Darren Warner. "Rob Lear Interview". Plugged in Magazine Wales.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  17. ^ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxxKszdmlM0&
  18. ^ BBC Radio (11 April 2015). "Record of The Week". BBC Music Introducing in Kent. Retrieved 21 August 2020.
  19. ^ https://open.spotify.com/album/6KOMOd9PJ2SwUVY6LvA7Cd
  20. ^ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21dGQe6_8DU
  21. ^ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mT12LESBlc
  22. ^ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QY_ciVZfH0c
  23. ^ {{cite web | url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dream_Attic
  24. ^ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaSNT6bTPbs
  25. ^ https://open.spotify.com/track/5NeiZSQxl0d0BBzjAwstye?si=cIa9oP78SqCZjPKcYMoTzA
  26. ^ https://open.spotify.com/track/3neu4Sg2ZxAYufAmTMEBN4?si=ubWcQBx2RsigyhZ6ni0q6w
  27. ^ https://open.spotify.com/album/2XbkVYf3jxMWGuVeRaFlur?si=oUjk0bR2SlO37zoEShn8qQ
  28. ^ {{cite web|url=https://bigtakeover.com/recordings/DunkieWorkingToDesignSWNDRecords
  29. ^ {{cite web|url=https://eclecticmusiclover.com/2020/02/05/dunkie-album-review-working-to-design/

[1]


Stub icon

This article on a singer-songwriter is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.

  1. ^ https://issuu.com/plugged_in_magazine/docs/plugged_in_issue_17, pp 18–19
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Rob_Lear&oldid=974691823"