Some of the best childhood memories revolve around bus rides and singing along to the radio. And while most of the kids partaking in the sing-a-long don’t have musical aspirations, there is a handful that does so one can only imagine how they feel when they get older and finally hear themselves on the station that once housed their favorites. That became Hannah Grace’s reality thanks to Radio 2, but if you think her story starts and ends on the airwaves, think again! She’s got a lot more left to give and from what she told us, it’s a debut album and then some. Now get to know more about Hannah in this back and forth!
Kendra: Looking back, who was your first supporter when it came time to pursue your musical career?
Hannah Grace: have always been so lucky to have a wide supportive community around me. But my family are definitely the first people that believed in me, they have always supported and encouraged me in pursuing a career in music.
Kendra: From where you started to where you are now, have there been any unexpected delights so far?
Hannah Grace: So many! The music industry is unpredictable and so many opportunities have popped up over the years that I’m hugely grateful for. Having my cover of “Praise You” used in an advert was so good for me, it really helped people discover my music which was great! More recently I was asked to perform at Richard Quinn’s Fashion Show a London Fashion week with live strings and that was so amazing, I feel very lucky to have been asked.
Kendra: Getting so much love and support from Radio 2 has to feel great. Did you have that quintessential moment of hearing yourself for the first time on the radio?
Hannah Grace: Yes of course! It’s very surreal hearing yourself on the radio, and I am a huge Radio 2 fan as well so it’s extra special. I think it’s also really nice because my family and friends hear me too and always message me when I come on. (especially my Mum!).
Kendra: The story and idea of “Blue” is something so many can relate to. Being fed up with the sadness that comes with being human. It can sometimes be too much to handle. Other than music, how do you deal when reality gets overwhelming?
Hannah Grace: I’m lucky to live in a big shared house full of my best friends. We have so much fun together but also just talk all the time and listen to each other when we’re feeling down. I am very lucky to have that community. Other than that, I have lots of simple remedies; having a bath, cooking my favourite meal, watching my favourite film or going for a run!
Kendra: You noted, “It’s been very helpful for me to sometimes just be distracted from the stresses of life and surround myself with kind people and music to dance to!” Ironically enough before I sat down to write these, me and my fiance took a little top of the hour dance break. When you break out the moves, what’s your signature one?
Hannah Grace: That’s a hard one! I don’t think I have a signature move yet, but I loved dancing in the “Blue” video – so maybe one of those moves. The important thing is to just let go and have fun right?!
Kendra: Usually, this is where I ask people what they have planned in the coming months but with the world in a strange place right now, plans aren’t as concrete as they typically are. You can go ahead and let us know what you have tentatively planned but can you also share a song that never fails to get you through when the world around you feels like a mess?
Hannah Grace: I’m always writing more and I’m always singing, so a lot more of that. I have finished recording my debut album and I am beyond excited about all of my new music. I really can’t wait to have it out in the world. I love these songs so much. I hope to release more singles from my album in the coming months and hopefully have it all out at the end of 2020. Fingers crossed.
Go to songs – “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” the Aretha Franklin version. This always uplifts me and gives me hope.
