Sam's keeping it in the family

By Kev Hutchings BBC Radio Devon Introducing

Sam Dowden performs First Day Of Eternity for BBC Radio Devon Introducing

South Molton based singer songwriter Sam Dowden is preparing for big things as he nears the completion of his debut album.

There are almost 200 miles between his North Devon home town of South Molton and Hammersmith - but that's a small distance to travel when there's a chance to record your debut album at a top London studio.

For Sam, that also meant working with his record producer uncle, Nick Sykes.

"He's been recording for the last 30 years and now has his own studios, Rooster Studios in London," explained Sam.

"We thought it would be nice to finally do an album together."

South Molton is a lovely place to write and be inspired but to get my music heard I have to move away. Sam Dowden

Working with his uncle also meant Sam was following in the footsteps of some other rather well known artists.

"The biggest artists he's worked with are probably Robbie Williams and Cliff Richard," said Sam modestly.

And although 'Uncle Nick', Robbie and Sir Cliff have made the studio their second home, Sam told me it took him rather longer to get used to his new surroundings.

"When I first went in to the studio it was a massive shock!

"I had just been putting rough demos down before that but Nick really knuckled me down and explained I had to be on the ball - and that I had to take my time with it.

"It could take a whole day to do just one verse," said Sam.

Devon inspiration

When Sam joined me in the BBC Radio Devon studios, the 21-year-old played three acoustic songs for inclusion in the show.

Sam says he may have to leave Devon behind in search of success

All self-penned, guitar-led, feelgood pop songs which wouldn't have sounded too out of place next to the likes of Newton Faulkner and James Morrison.

I'm looking forward to hearing the finished album and I'm convinced some very exciting times are on the cards for Sam, even if it means that he may need to leave Devon behind.

That's something he admits will probably happen eventually: "South Molton is a lovely place to write and be inspired but to get my music heard I have to move away.

"I am in London a lot anyway playing gigs there.

"I love performing, so if I can do it in a large venue so much the better."

With the album due for release early in 2010 and his hard work - and commitment to putting on great live shows - I'm sure the audiences will grow and grow.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for another success for the Devon music scene!

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