18 Questions with introduces 1883 readers to the brightest young artists, actors, creatives and beyond. From childhood memories and guilty pleasures to their latest ventures and upcoming projects, our goal is to bring you closer to the people who inspire and entertain us.

As David Barr continues his journey as a solo artist, he places no pressure on himself and focuses on what he loves to do — making music. With the release of his second single as a soloist “Moon Under Water” this past month, the Scottish singer odes to being older and wiser as the formula for this era as an artist. Barr’s folk sound is mesmerizing and fresh. In addition to music, Barr also led a short film called, Clean, recently. Travelling between California, London and Scotland; there is a lot in store for David Barr and fans will have to wait and see how it all unravels. 

1883 Magazine chats with David Barr about his solo career, his new single and his evolution as an artist.

What’s one exciting thing that happened to you this week?

I played the lead in a short film in London.

What was the last thing you read? 

Billy Sloan’s “One Love One Life.”

Favourite memory growing up? 

Going to T In The Park music festival. 

Where was the last place you travelled to? 

I was just in California for three months then London currently back in Scotland. I travel a lot! 

What was the last thing that made you laugh? 

Just a silly WhatsApp msg from my friend. 

What’s your nighttime ritual? 

Shower, moisturize, brush my teeth and then listen to green noise to help me sleep.

Who would be on your dream dinner party guest list? 

Paul McCartney.

Favourite quote from a film or TV show? 

“FREEDOM!” Since I’m Scottish. 

What’s your go-to karaoke song? 

“Anyone know Wonderwall?” 

Favourite item in your closet? 

My Blake Hedley jacket that I wore on The Moon Kids video for ENEMY. 

What’s the inspiration behind “Moon Under Water”? Was there anything about writing “Moon Under Water” that surprised you about yourself? 

Well, I started writing it kind of about self-destruction and it became far more about self-discovery and being defiant in the face of adversity. 

Transitioning from a band to a solo project can be quite a significant change. What motivated you to embark on this solo journey?

No other motivation other than I love writing songs and didn’t ever plan to stop doing that.

How does it compare to your experiences with The Moon Kids? There are pros and cons of being solo and being in a band. I wouldn’t say I preferred one over the other. 

Are there any specific themes or messages that you’re exploring through your solo music?

Just universal truths I hope. 

Many musicians draw inspiration from a variety of sources. What artists or genres have had the greatest impact on your solo work, and how do you incorporate those influences into your music?

Growing up I was inspired by UK indie music like The Stone Roses, Blur, Oasis, The Verve, The Smiths etc but I don’t deliberately try to incorporate them I think they influence us just naturally there. 

As a solo artist, you’re likely more involved in the production and recording process. Can you walk us through your approach to recording and producing your music, and how hands-on are you in these aspects of the creative process? 

I was always hands-on even when I was in a band. For ‘Moon Under Water’ I just worked directly with producer Elliott Lanam in his studio in California and we both laid down all the parts together—a very easy process. The song was written on an acoustic guitar in a motel in Santa Barbara. 

How do these themes differ from what you previously explored with The Moon Kids?

Not that much different, I’m just older and hopefully wiser now with my writing. 

What are your hopes and goals for your solo career, and how do you envision your music evolving in the future? 

I’m not putting any pressure on that… I’m going to just chip away and see what develops.

“Moon Under Water” is out now.

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