Scottish songwriter Luke Marshall Black has revealed his gritty, epic new single ‘Skin’ - out now via AWAL.
Following ‘Losing Sleep’ and ‘Let Love Go’, the release of ‘Skin’ marks the final stage of three songs that introduce multi-instrumentalist Luke Marshall Black to the world. It is also his production debut. A slow and steady approach to launching his career has been important to Luke - an artist whose mission statement is all about adding value; ‘It’s really important for me that my music can add something unique to the tapestry of songs out there and mean something important to the people who hear it’’. This approach is proving successful, with support so far from the likes of CLASH magazine, an appearance at Glastonbury Festival, support from BBC Radio Bristol, and a sold-out debut headline show. Having achieved all this entirely independently, it’s clear that the future is bright for this talented young artist.
‘Skin’ consolidates Luke’s ability to craft the modern heartbreak ballad. Discussing themes of isolation and the loss of physical touch, lockdown 2021 is the perfect time for this song; “I wish that I could feel you on my skin, and I wish I knew how much of me you’re in,” sings Luke. The track is laced with melodic hooks and ear-worm refrains. A gritty vocal soars over string lines which are contrasted by sultry contemporary beats with mass popular potential.
Introducing Luke Marshall Black
Having started writing songs from the age of 14, it was only as Luke got older that started to build confidence to share his music with the world. Cutting his teeth busking on Glasgow’s infamous Buchanan Street, he first began playing really late at night for fear of being recognised. But the more he did it, the more his confidence grew, and the earlier he began to play. “Once I found that confidence I just never really stopped,” he says. It was this slow build in confidence and tenacity that eventually led to Luke deciding to pursue a career in music. “I think when you find the thing that really sets your soul on fire, you’ve gotta chase after it. Because even if it’s out of the ordinary, if you don’t do it, what’s the point in doing anything, you know.”
With his experience behind him, ‘Skin’ provides a more mature and sincere reflection than your typical pop offering, “I wanted to offer something that touched on the experience of lockdown without being exclusive to it. It’s important to me that songs reflect life on a few different levels...I think that's the key to longevity”. This long-term vision and commitment to longevity encapsulates Luke’s approach to his craft. Slowly but surely... an important new artist is beginning to carve his space in the musical landscape.
‘Skin’ is out now via AWAL. Watch 'Introducing Luke Marshall Black' here.
