Singer songwriter Richard Anderson hails from Tooting and has just released album Up Before Dark.

Katie Kemp chats to him about his music and activism in Wandsworth.

Katie Kemp: When did you first discover an interest in music?

Richard Anderson: I started playing the guitar in my last year of secondary school, rather late to start, and played my first gigs after moving to study in Glasgow the following year.  

KK: You’re quite a significant activist in Wandsworth. Have you played any gigs as part of a campaign?

RA: I actually organised and played a gig last year at the Bread and Roses in Clapham for Wandsworth Against Cuts. We did manage to raise significant funds with Arthur Smith and Attila the Stockbroker appearing on the bill.

KK: What would you say most influences your music?

RA: My songs are built around things I hear in conversation or things I’ve read, which I think will be memorable. Despite being involved in activism most of my songs have been personal although there are a couple of political tracks on my Up Before Dark. 

KK: Which is your favourite venue to play locally?

RA: I had a positive experience when playing the Bread n Roses and because of their ethos of supporting workers I would have to say that venue. I do though like the intimate theatre of the Bedford, in Balham.     

KK: What do you hope to achieve with your music?

RA: I hope to continue to widen my audience for gigs and recordings to the point where I can spend most of my time on my music.   

KK: How long have you been living in Tooting. What made you decide to make the move from Scotland?

RA: I moved to Tooting four-and-a- half years ago. I had a couple of contacts living in London, played some gigs down here and felt the capital was where I needed to be. Immediately prior to coming here I actually lived in the North of England and was a travelling troubadour.

KK: Have you got any upcoming gigs in the local area?

RA: My last gig was the album launch I did with my band at the Troubadour in Earl’s Court. Hopefully I can confirm something in the local area very soon and details will appear on richard-anderson.co.uk.