In collaboration with
- Words Notion Staff
- Photography Phoebe Cowley
Have you heard the soulful stylings of Aaron Taylor? We've got the London musician on repeat.
You might not have known his name, but you would likely have heard his music. Aaron Taylor’s 2018 hit “I Think I Love You Again” featured strutting rhythms and relatable lyrics, coated in smooth-as-butter vocals. But it’s not his only number to have racked up millions of listens; Aaron’s debut EP from 2016 produced the extremely popular tunes “Blue” and “Lesson Learnt”.
Recently announced as one of Virgin Money’s Emerging Stars, Aaron Taylor has joined the programme of exciting artists to watch. The music initiative, supported by ambassador Laura Whitmore, aims to identify, support and promote the best emerging talent in the UK.
The London born-and-raised musician makes “groovy beats, heartfelt ballads” and grew up listening to soul, R&B and gospel, naming Lauryn Hill and D’Angelo as some of his key influences. With all of his music based on his own personal experiences, Aaron Taylor’s music is a passage into his heart and head.
With his latest release, however, Aaron is leaning into a more electronic sound. On “Shooting Star”, he teamed up with Rex Orange County’s “Loving Is Easy” collaborator, Benny Sings. Could this be the start of a new sonic direction for Aaron Taylor?
We spoke with Aaron about everything from his creative process to the power of music, and how people can support musicians during COVID-19.
How does it feel to be one of the first Virgin Money Emerging Stars?
It’s a special honour to be chosen for this. It’s comforting and encouraging to have people’s belief in you and tout you as one to watch when there is such amazing talent around.
Describe your musical process?
It varies, normally I start with drums or chords I like.
What is the best thing about being in the music industry?
Appreciation of your musical ideas.
What is the hardest thing?
Inevitably comparing yourself to everyone else.
How important is it to support emerging musicians, especially right now with the current effects of COVID-19?
Musicians may be among the last people to get back on their feet after COVID. Many venues and festivals remain closed and cancelled and live shows make up an important part of the industry’s income. Support is really appreciated.
What would your advice be to music listeners to help up and coming artists?
Keep streaming/downloading. Buy any merch available and spread the word about artists you like.
Which song did you wish you had written?
“Someday We’ll All Be Free” by Donny Hathaway.
Why do you think music is so powerful?
It transcends science; it’s spiritual – a universal language.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Headlining a sold-out Jazz Café show and hearing fans sing the words unprompted.
How important do you think social media is when it comes to building your profile and audience?
Social media is the easiest way to market your music now. It’s important to plug into the platforms that work for you.
Tell us about your social media profiles – which should we follow you on and why?
I like Instagram the most, but I’m also on Twitter and plan to use my YouTube channel more too – @iaarontaylor. I downloaded TikTok but haven’t tried it yet.
What’s the best career advice you’ve been given?
Start where you are; use what you have; do what you can. Tumblr!
