Phil Bentley

Story

Born Doncaster England and instinctively almost immediately became interested in pop music. Studied music theory at school age 12 and made a miserable effort to play the tenor horn with the school band. Picked up a guitar late teens after hearing 'Who's Next' and quickly started composing tunes. Collaborated with song writing partner Mick Huxley for several years and was prompted to continue after his death. Music has always been a way of letting light into my world and song writing helps me to try and make sense of the world around me. Song writing and home studio production has now become the main focus for my creative output. Not expecting to get rich but if one person can relate to the issues I write about then I have succeeded. Although there have been many influences, I have mainly been influenced by music from the late sixties and early seventies from bands such as The Kinks and The Who. Great song writers such as Bob Dylan, David Bowie and Pete Townshend have also been an inspiration. However, my style remains unique and original. Primarily guitar based the songs are triggered from real life events or personal experiences in which I hope others can relate. Music being the universal language the songs are intended to connect and communicate with the listener on some level. Thanks for listening, please enjoy. Phil Bentley

Profile

Instruments

Genres

Influences

Equipment

Languages

What is music to you? What does it give you?

As a listener I feel a connection to the artist. As an artist the intention is to communicate and connect with everyone and everything. Music is also very good for your body mind and soul.

What is your music dream?

To get paid a reasonable wage for making music.

If you could change the world - what would you start with?

I think a good place to start would be in schools. Radical changes in the way children are educated. Children don't seem to be educated, their just given information and knowledge which is often incomplete, biased or incorrect. Improvements in education, such as encouraging original thought, and how to avoid conflict and war could change the world radically in one generation.

Which is the most memorable song from your childhood?

"The Legend Of Xanadu' By Dave Dee Dozy Beaky Mick and Tich. 1968

Who are your favorite musical artists or bands?

David Bowie, Bob Dylan, Pete Townshend and The Who, Vangelis, George Harrison, Marvin Gaye.

What inspires you to make music?

Self expression and a desire to communicate in ways that surpass the limitations of language. I've got something to say and I want to be heard.

What is the message you want to send with your music?

Every piece of music or song will have a different message.

How do you feel when you perform in front of an audience?

When I rarely perform in front of an audience I feel reasonably comfortable and know how to get their attention.

How do you see the musicians’ reality nowadays? What could be improved?

Technology and the internet has changed the reality of being a musician. There are now millions of people producing music in their homes and uploading it in the hope that someone else will hear it, like it or even buy it. Consequently, there is much more music available these days than ever before.

What do you think of Drooble?

Drooble is a good community base for musicians, for support and feedback. The online radio I think is a great idea, streaming music continuously, giving artists the opportunity to be heard and the listener an opportunity to discover new talent. It's all good and helps promote mutual support.

What frustrates you most as a musician?

People turning a deaf ear.

Do you support your local scene as a fan? How?

There is no local "scene" here. Local scenes tend to stay in the big cities. There is a very vibrant music scene in Manchester where they've got more musicians than plumbers. So I've been told.

What qualities should a musician nowadays have in order to get their music heard by a larger audience?

Determination, enthusiasm. original thought, patience, skill talent and a love for music. And you must believe in yourself.

Share some awesome artists that we’ve never heard of.

Brio'con. https://www.reverbnation.com/briocon