The solo project of guitarist and singer-songwriter, Ben James Miller, Church, Honey is somewhere between indie and folk. Founded in 2020, Church, Honey is relatively new, but Ben has already received raving reviews from Narc Magazine and It’s All Indie (to name a few). We spoke with the Middlesborough musician about his debut single ‘Pity Sex’ and much more.
Why did you decide to enter the music industry?
I’ve been playing music now for about 10 years off and on as a solo artist. I felt like I’d hit a bit of an impasse and didn’t quite know what I wanted to do or what I wanted to make. At the beginning of this year, I realised I had enough songs that I really loved and decided to start the new project Church, Honey.
Can you tell us about the single ‘Pity Sex’?
‘Pity Sex’ is a big, anthemic indie song about the last night you spend with an ex-lover. It’s an emotionally vulnerable plea to have one last moment with somebody you loved before you part ways.
What was the recording and writing process like?
Recording was amazing! We took the track to Young Thugs Studio in York and recorded with Jonny. He really helped bring the song to life and added in extra instrumentation. I had a fairly good idea of how I wanted it to sound and it’s pretty much exactly what you hear today.
Does the single have any significant meaning for you?
It was definitely the first song I’d written in years where I thought, ‘I can actually see this played on stage with people singing along and dancing’.
What do you hope people take from your music?
I always say I hope it stings a little bit. You know you’re onto something when somebody tells you, ‘I listened to your song and it really cut me deep’.
What is more challenging for you – melody or lyrics?
Definitely melody! I usually write my lyrics first or a particular line will spark the song. It’s rare that I have music first. My brain just doesn’t seem to wire that way!
How do you keep yourself motivated?
I find motivation really difficult. I think one thing is not to be too precious. If something isn’t working then I get rid of it, Instead of focusing on something and getting frustrated, I just start something new. I also find that once I’ve found a theme or a catchphrase for the song it usually writes itself and that’s exciting.
How would you describe your sound?
I’d say we’re somewhere between indie and folk. ‘Pity Sex’ is a huge song with lots of instrumentation, but the next song is more acoustic with a country-style vibe to it.
What do you think is the best way to discover new music?
Ask your friends! I have lots of friends who are musicians and I find that when you support and lift each other up, when you share each other’s music and tell people about it you’ll find people tell you about other music you’d like.
What does the future hold for you?
At the moment there’s not a lot we can do. I’m hoping we can be gigging by the end of the year and really get our live shows up to scratch. Then ideally we’ll release a few more songs before year’s end.
Do you have a message for our readers?
Say hello! We love getting messages from people who enjoyed the songs. Drop us a Tweet or a message; we’d love to hear from you!
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