BRING THE NOISE FESTIVAL | FRANKIE DOBSON INTERVIEW

Hailing from Bishop Auckland, County Durham, Frankie Dobson is a rising indie artist who began his musical journey two years ago. Drawing inspiration from the heartfelt lyricism of Sam Fender, the storytelling of Louis Dunford, and the infectious energy of The Vaccines, Frankie has quickly carved out his own distinct sound. His music merges raw emotion with an anthemic edge, delivering relatable narratives wrapped in captivating melodies. Despite being early in his career, Frankie is already making waves with his fresh and dynamic approach, establishing himself as one to watch in the indie music scene.

Could you introduce yourselves, who’s in the band, what your sound is, and how you came together?
My name’s Frankie Dobson. I’m from Bishop Auckland in County Durham. I started playing about two years ago, and now I sound a bit like Sam Fender, Louis Dunford, and the Vaccines.

What’s happening for you right now? Any new releases, upcoming gigs, or exciting projects in the works?
I released my debut single, Candy, last month, and I’m planning my first headline tour in November this year.

📸: @saintsophie_

Looking back, how has your music evolved since you first started out? Are there any key moments that shaped your sound or approach?
I think my music has changed massively. I’m writing a lot more about myself and my life experience. There’s a lot to be said about a place that no one knows about, and no one knows me yet, so putting my life on paper has been a new hurdle that I’ve jumped.

What’s your biggest challenge as an independent band, and how have you navigated it?
I think the hardest part is the money, working a pint time job in a bar taking abuse all day after you’ve just had a snippet of what your life could be, it’s soul crushing to be honest, but it just makes me want to work harder I’m 22 year old so I feel like the worlds mine for the taking if I work hard enough.

What’s your songwriting and recording process like when creating new music? Do you have any unique rituals or methods?
When I write new music, it’s almost like it creeps up on me. It’ll be about 2 a.m., and I’ll hear a full song in my head, and I have to just get it out of my system. Lyrics-wise, it’s just finding the words that comprehend my feelings at the time. Trying to make sense of it is like tuning in a radio or sorting your aerial out. It’s blurry, but you get there eventually.

If you had to describe your upcoming (or latest) release in just three words, what would they be?
I think my last release, Candy, is just a relatable pop song that you can dance to and have a good time to!

What made Bring the Noise stand out to you? What excites you most about playing (or being part of) the festival?
This festival stood out to me because of the many bands on. It’s amazing to be around so many people striving for the same thing and to hear other people’s stories. There’s no hierarchy or snobbery.

Sheffield has a rich musical history; how do you see your band fitting into or challenging that legacy?
Being from a place like Bishop Auckland, I’m constantly challenging things because I’m right in between three huge north-east cities. So, coming to a place like Sheffield is just another opportunity to make myself known and have people ask, “What’s in the water in Bishop Auckland?”

The indie scene is constantly evolving. Where do you see it heading, and how do you hope to contribute to its future?
It’s difficult to predict the future of the music scene, especially considering how the government has treated creative sectors. Bands are becoming smarter and learning how to navigate the industry on their own. I want to emphasise that someone from a smaller town or rural area can make an impact, too. It’s surprising how many people believe you have to move to London to succeed in music, you don’t have to! You should never settle for anything less than exactly what you want.

Who would you choose if one band on the lineup could cover your tracks?
STONE 100% I’d love to see Stone play one of my tracks.

Frankie Dobson plays at the Bring The Noise Festival at Sheffield’s Network on the 26th of April. Tickets are available here: https://www.skiddle.com/festivals/bring-the-noise/