Since finding fame via the wonders of social media, 19 year-old Gabrielle Aplin is the latest in a lengthy line of internet phenoms. With over 10 million YouTube views and counting and her debut EP gaining critical applause, Aplin is set to embark on a November tour. Wonderland caught up with the singer/songwriter just as she unleashed the video for her brand new single ‘Please Don’t Say You Love Me’.
You’re a viral phenomenon, but where did it all start for you?
I started uploading YouTube videos, sharing music on Facebook and using Twitter too. I suppose people started to pick up on it and I guess its all grown from there.
When did you first start writing music?
I’ve always written lyrics and poetry. When I was around 13 I started to teach myself piano and that’s when I realised i could put words to music.
Was music your ultimate passion or did you ever consider carving out a career down a different path?
Music was what I loved always. I studied different things and I wanted to go into languages. I dropped out of sixth form to study the industry and opportunities came up that I wanted to make the most of.
So how important would you say that social media and networking sites are to an emerging artist’s career?
For me, and similar artists, I think its very important. Even just saying thank you to people who support you. There are obviously other ways to grow as an artist and old methods are still working but this is the only way I know of.
Tell us a little bit more about your new single ‘Please Don’t Say You Love Me’?
I wrote it after watching (500) Days Of Summer. It’s not about the film at all, but I was inspired by how relatable the story was. It’s about enjoying the thrill of the early stages of a relationship that you don’t want to ruin.
The video got over 200k views on it’s first day of release. Were you overwhelmed by the reaction it’s been getting?
Most definitely, but I try not to get too roped into it. I think it’s great to celebrate success but not to dwell on it too much. I’m always looking for the next thing I should be doing and working towards new goals.
How would you say that your writing and subject matter differs from that of other female singer-songwriters?
I don’t think it really differs too much and I don’t try to be really different. Whatever I write is always completely honest.
Everything you have achieved so far has been done independently. How are you feeling about signing to a major label?
Even though I’ve just signed to a major label not much has changed. We still have a great team around us and I’m still very much independent in the way i make my music. No one’s telling me what to do.
Your debut EP hit the Top 30 without any promo. What can we expect from the full length record?
It’ll be a development of what I’ve already released. It’s still going to be folky, but will have darker songs on it. There’ll also be a few new recordings of older songs too.
You’re touring in November. What can we expect from your live shows?
This time i’ll be using a live band. It’s only a small set up but it makes a big difference! It”s going to be fun, but not taking away from the intimacy of my acoustic gigs.
You can pre-order ‘Please Don’t Say You Love Me’ here. www.gabrielleaplin.co.uk
Words: Shane Hawkins