5 Songs I Love W/ MJ Fretwell

MJ Fretwell has recently released the radiant debut single 'Tainted' displayling a natural ability to craft soulful, emotive and commercially viable music. Bringing togetehr acoustic singer-songwriter elements with some restrained drums, backing vocals and bass, the single creates a varied soundscape under the elengent and melodic lead vocals. Naturally, we wanted to know more a bout MJ's inspirations and some of her favourite music. Over to MJ Fretwell to give us 5 of her all time faves!

Wild Horses - The Rolling Stones

My dad played me this song when I was young, and It always stood out to me amongst others. However a couple of years ago I read Marianne Faithfull's autobiography and discovered where the inspiration for the song originated, this reignited my love for it . Stylistically, this song has definitely inspired me, It's a record written straight from the heart. 

Love of My Life - Queen

I connected with this song as soon as I heard it. It's a simple song, but the vocal technique is complex and reflects the sad lyrics beautifully. You can really feel and hear the desperation in the way the lyrics are sung, it encapsulates the raw feeling of being abandoned by the one you love so well. That's what makes this record a true piece of art. 

Heroes - David Bowie

I love the different sounds in this record, it has such a timeless groove to it. It's one of those songs that makes you feel like you're on top of the world when you're in fact just walking down your local highstreet. There is just something so undeniably cool about the way it sounds, Bowie has a top tier discography, but this has to be my favourite song of his. 

How Deep Is Your Love - BeeGees

I could have chosen any song from their iconic Saturday Night Fever soundtrack album, but How Deep Is Your Love was always my favourite. I think my love of layered vocal harmonies was deeply inspired by this track, they capture your attention straight away and you become instantly absorbed into the dreamy soundscape. The lyrics blend perfectly with the music, and create such a sensual listening experience. 

I Heard Love Is Blind - Amy Winehouse

Amy was the queen of blending tongue in cheek songwriting with raw powerhouse vocals. I love this track specifically because it's everything songwriting is supposed to be. It's a reflection of the artist's personality and experiences, it's entertaining, and it tackles the awkward topic of infidelity with such whimsy. It achieves all of the above, and is beautifully sung with little to no effort. This one is a forever favourite for sure.

Listen to MJ Fretwell's new single below: