As part of our Music Made Us campaign, BIMM student Jacob Powlett tells us what inspired his route into music, why he chose Music Production, and what drew him to London.
Who inspired your route into music?
I was inspired by all sorts growing up. Despite studying Music Production, I guess my biggest influences in terms of making me want to create music were the performers I used to watch. People like Jack White, Kele Okereke, Yannis Philippakis; all these great frontmen that made a recorded song sound electrifying on stage. I’ve always loved indie-rock bands and the aggressive yet controlling nature of their amazing frontmen, and I want that feeling.
“I continue to be inspired by new and different people every week.”
As I’ve gotten older and learnt more, I continue to be inspired by new and different people every week. But, in terms of making me want to be a musician, it’s got to be the frontmen of the bands I grew up listening to.
What made you choose to study Music Production?
Although I know I want to be an artist, I thought that in the long term there were going to be times where I’ll struggle without being able to educate or transfer my skills into something else. I love working with audio and DAWs (Logic X and Ableton) so I thought it would make the most sense to do other freelance stuff alongside creating my own music.
“There are so many avenues to explore in music production; it’s impossible to get bored when you really love it.”
I’d love to start producing beats and arrangements for other artists, as well as mixing/directing audio for short films and art films. There are so many avenues to explore in music production; it’s impossible to get bored when you really love it. I’ve also just been really into producing beats and instrumentals for the longest time anyway, so I thought it’d be a great way to improve and grow, getting advice along the way where I need it.
Why is London right for you?
Full disclosure: I’m not fully certain it is. At times, I love London: how chaotic it is and the diversity and versatility. But when you’re like me (anxious A.F.), some days that can be amazing and other days it’s incredibly overwhelming.
“It’s nice to expand my circle of friends and potential collaborators.”
Studying here has been cool because I’ve met a lot of really interesting like-minded people – more so than I’d be able to in my hometown (Ipswich) so it’s nice to expand my circle of friends and potential collaborators.
After I graduate from BIMM, I’m undecided on whether or not I should stay here. I guess it depends on whether I get signed to a record label or whatever other opportunity arises. With how everything is in the industry at the moment, it’s pretty hard to make a concrete plan, especially in the early stages. Although, I would love to fall in love with London again.
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.
