Adam Taylor, also known as ADMT, is an artist who is not afraid to de-stigmatise conversations around mental health through his artistry. Originating from Doncaster, North of England, ADMT’s music spreads across seas, showcasing his beautifully emotive and raw voice, and songwriting. His most recent track, Best Friend, is Adam’s interpretation of 50 Cent’s profound and timeless song. ADMT’s distinctive sound has garnered support from various Spotify playlists, as well as from influential figures like Huw Stephens and BBC Introducing, resulting in millions of streams.

In conversation with 1883 Magazine, Adam Taylor delves into the release of his latest single, exploring the messages he aims to convey through his music and reflecting on his journey leading up to his current standing in the music scene.

I admired your take of 50 Cent’s Best Friend. That brings me to wonder, what genres of music do you personally enjoy listening to yourself? 

Thank you! I love so many different types of music. I seem to go through phases with different artists or genres. I got brought up on soul music, rnb and hip hop so I always seem go back there, to my happy place, eventually. But right now I’m in Country mode haha. 

Following the significant exposure from 50 Cent, not only watching the video but also sharing it, how has your career trajectory shifted?

I mean, my whole life has changed. I’m a full time musician now you know. I’ve done brand deals, traveled, and I am selling out venues. I dunno what’s happening. I’m just a guy from Donny who loved music haha. The truth is my life’s completely different thanks to him. I’ll never not be grateful, you know.  

Your track, Wish You Loved You, explores the profound theme of wishing someone loved themselves, delivering a beautiful message. Could you elaborate on the takeaway you hope people have from this song? 

I think these days there seems to be so many issues with self mental health and confidence. I kind of just wanted to give people some love back. I’ve been in situations where people close to me gave me so much love, but didn’t really love themselves. This was kind of a gentle nudge to remind them and other people that they matter. They are a light in a lot of peoples worlds even if they don’t see it. 

I think social media comparison and many other things caused these issues but it’s important for us to know that we are all individuals and with that individuality comes uniqueness. Embracing that can become something really special.

Your commitment to de-stigmatise conversations around mental health and wellness is commendable. Apart from creating music, are there other avenues or initiatives you actively pursue to support others? 

To be honest, I think just speaking about these things openly is really important. Especially to people who don’t feel comfortable talking about this stuff. This is still quite a radical move for some people, particularly men.

I try to not make it a big deal in conversation, both in the community I’m hopefully creating online and live. I think conversation without fear of judgment or attack is really important. It’s important for people to feel safe enough to speak about things openly because just that in itself helps create community and hopefully stops people feeling alone. 

I’m pretty dedicated to normalizing looking after mental health. I want it to become as natural as looking after your physical health because it’s just as,if not more, important.

Reflecting on the outset of your musical journey, what pivotal milestones have paved the way for your current position in the industry? 

I think we can’t deny that 50 Cent has played a huge role, but in all honesty consistency also plays a big role. I have been working really hard for a really long time, it’s not always been easy but I have stuck at it for the love of it. I think being in it for the right reasons does translate and people seem to recognise my authenticity.

Some incredible things happened to me and as always, I am so grateful but without consistency no opportunity arises. The more things you involve yourself in, the more chance there is of things like the 50 Cent moment happening. You really have to put yourself out there even though that can be a challenge in itself. 

Share your experience with busking. Where did you busk and how has that experience shaped your musical path? 

I used to work in a factory around the same time as Covid happened. I started to struggle with my mental health and decided working at something that did not feed my soul was a contributing factor. That’s when I went busking. I had some friends who busked also. They showed me the ropes and from there I used to hit up different towns throughout the week. 

I think busking gave me even more resilience, determination and more passion for something that I love. It showed me nothing comes without hard work or struggle, whether that’s standing in the cold all day, or singing to people in the street who sometimes don’t even acknowledge you. 

Looking ahead, where do you envision yourself in 5 years?

Wembley baby ! Hahah I envision happiness in all honesty. As long as this keeps feeding my happiness, I’ll continue to do it. I don’t know if I want to be “famous” I just want to do what I love and hopefully through that I can help some people along the way 

Congratulations on your upcoming 2024 tour – incredibly exciting! Can you mention three essentials that will undoubtedly accompany you in April? 

Disaronno. Hahah I’ll be honest this has all happened so quickly I don’t have a definitive list. Manuka honey, my vocal steamer, hats and trainers. Haha this is my vibe right now. 

Best Friend is out now, follow ADMT via @iamadmt

Interview Saina Penrake

Photography Jack Alexander