As part of our Music Made Us campaign, BIMM student Hazel Smith tells us what inspired her route into music, why she chose to study Songwriting, and what drew her to London.
Who inspired your route into music?
My main inspiration comes from David Bowie and Depeche Mode, but the main reason I decided to take the leap and pursue a musical career was discovering Nothing But Thieves in 2015. It had been a long time since an up-and-coming band had caught my attention like that, and there was something very raw and genuine in the intention they put in their music that really spoke to me.
I saw a video of Connor Mason on YouTube giving a Masterclass at BIMM and then met him at a concert in Paris, and it’s our chat back then that convinced me to change my career path. The next day, I gave my notice at work, got an offer at BIMM and moved to London a few months later!
What made you choose to study Songwriting?
I actually started with the diploma in Vocals Performance because all I could do was sing, I couldn’t play any instrument. I worked really hard, learned rudimentary keys skills and started a band after that. However, after a year, I decided to enrol at BIMM again, this time for the Songwriting degree, with the goal of becoming more independent and to start a solo project under the name H A Z E. I am now in my third year and have just released my debut solo single called “King”.
Why is London right for you?
I always thought London was great for me musically because of its history and all the genres and styles it hosts. Literally, each part of the city has something different to offer, and the opportunities are endless, as long as you know where to look.
Our Music Made Us campaign is told through the students, graduates, journalists, experts and passionate people who have been shaped by music. Discover their stories here.
