Artist Spotlight: August Charles
August Charles is a rapidly emerging artist born in Zambia and raised in Doncaster, South Yorkshire. His thought-provoking lyrics, lush instrumentals, and the perfect blend of alternative and R&B have earned him worldwide recognition in recent years.
Charles has always viewed his music as a form of escapism, a way to express whatever he’s going through. While he doesn’t always feel comfortable sharing the backstory of his songs, he occasionally opens up during live performances when his emotions can be heightened. Charles feels deeply connected to every song he releases, and even though they have one meaning to him, he appreciates how they can be interpreted differently for everyone.
His highest-streamed song, “Blessed,” explores his delicate relationship with his mother, capturing his journey to understand their bond. Although he wrote the song during a rough patch in their relationship, it’s a testament to his love and appreciation for his mother. In the chorus, he sings “said that I’m blessed, I’ll find you easy on my arm,” reflecting on his reassurance that his mother will always be there for him, and he always wants to make her proud.
His latest release, “Stand on Trial,” is a collaboration with Toronto-based hip-hop artist jev. The two artists blend their talents in jazz, hip-hop, and R&B, crafting a unique easy-listening experience. Despite moving frequently as a kid, Charles finds a sense of home in the UK. He is currently on tour in the UK until the end of May, and tickets for his shows are selling quickly.
You can listen to “Stand on Trial” here: https://too.fm/3oe33ar