London's own multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, Tommy Down, is fast becoming a name synonymous with heartfelt, genre-blending music. His soulful track 'Mrs Blue', plucked from his 2024 album '21st Century Living', has amassed a staggering 5.7 million streams on Spotify, cementing his position as a rising star. This impressive feat has garnered attention from tastemakers like Radio X and Earmilk, building a dedicated following eagerly anticipating his next moves.
Tommy is now gearing up for a 2025 EP release, teasing fans with the recent launch of its first single, the dreamy psych-rock offering 'Do You Want It All?'. This new track made its debut via the renowned CLASH Magazine, hinting at the diverse sonic landscape Tommy is set to explore.
Behind Tommy’s distinctive sound lies a rich tapestry of influences and collaborations. He’s worked alongside acclaimed producers such as Jeffrey Silverman, and the Grammy-nominated duo Jon Shave and Jason Pebworth of Invisible Men. His journey has taken him to stages at events like the Camden Rocks Festival, where he’s shared the bill with acts such as Frank Turner. Notably, his music has featured prominently in HBO’s hit drama Industry, co-created by his brother Mickey Down, with six of his songs gracing episodes across all three seasons.
A Camden native, Tommy’s musical odyssey began at just fourteen, drawing from the wellsprings of jazz, rock, and soul. His musical lineage runs deep, with his grandfather having sung for WWII troops. After honing his craft with the Bristol-based jazz ensemble BUJO, touring Europe, he returned to London to produce a captivating soul album. Tommy continues to captivate audiences across the capital, his performances a compelling blend of his rich UK-Ghanaian heritage and a profound passion for storytelling through song. Comparisons to the raw emotionality of Paolo Nutini and the expansive soundscapes of Tame Impala are often made, and it’s easy to see why, with inspiration drawn from a diverse palette including Marvin Gaye, Radiohead, and Michael Kiwanuka. Now, with Tommy taking the reins on production and performing live with his backing band, his forthcoming EP promises an intriguing fusion of psychedelic rock and soul, drawing cues from Radiohead and Mitski.
Despite the significant buzz around 'Mrs Blue', nothing truly prepares a first-time listener for its stirring impact. This wonderfully romantic tune is poised to charm fans of John Mayer, Jason Mraz, and even early Maroon 5. The track’s stripped-back arrangement, featuring a steady, gently grooving rhythm section reminiscent of Al Green, alongside a delicate, atmospheric organ and subtle backing vocals, provides ample space for Tommy's timeless voice—a vocal performance that is both controlled and brimming with genuine feeling. 'Mrs Blue' masterfully conveys the poignant pangs of yearning, exuding a gooey warmth, deep adoration, and a touch of melancholy.
Tommy shared his insight into the creation of the track: "The song was produced by Grammy and Brit award-winning producer Jon Shave. I brought Jason Pebworth, one of the Invisible Men, a song I wrote about my girlfriend. I felt blue one weekend because I felt like my girlfriend was too, but we hadn't spoken about it. It felt like a sixth sense, and I wrote a song about that feeling. Jason and I started writing a new version of the song, and I completely changed the lyrics. Jason suggested getting a sort of Al Green 'Lets Stay Together’ beat for the track, which worked very well."
Tommy Down is not just making music; he’s crafting experiences. His journey continues to unfold, promising a rich and evolving sound that demands attention. Join Tommy Down today on Instagram, Facebook, and X.
