THE revival of Swing music in recent years, thanks to the likes of Robbie Williams and Westlife, has spawned a host of Rat Pack wannabees.
From Michael Buble to Jamie Callum, it seems that every other solo artist is aiming to be the next Bobby Darin or Frank Sinatra. One person who may just fulfil that ambition is Derry born singer Martin John, who is set to perform at the Alley Theatre next Saturday night.
Like many young artists these days, Martin was forced to seek stardom through reality television. Unlike the thousands who went down the same route, the man from the Culmore Road actually achieved success, reaching the final 21 in the X Factor and the final stages of Fame Academy.
The experience gave Martin an insight into just how the music business works and what is required to make it on the big stage.
So, with a little help from his uncle, Martin decided to gather a 12 peice orchestra, including six Strabane musicians, and embark on a nine date tour of Northern Ireland. This Saturday night's gig at the Alley is the last date on that tour and such has been the success of the Derry crooner, it's next stop Las Vegas.
The Strabane Chronicle caught up Martin earlier this week to chat X Factor, excitement and experience.
"I've been singing and writing since I was eight and it's all I've ever wanted to do. So, when the opportunity of doing Fame Academy came along I said yeah, I'll have a go at that. It was more about writing songs than the X Factor was, so it suited me better," Martin explained.
"Would I advise a young person to go on one a reality show? I don't know. The end product that you see on television isn't really how it is. For instance you have to do two auditions for the producers before you even get to go before the judges. It's all very set up and geared towards making good television. What I would say to any young person is take it with a pinch of salt, but if you are considering trying out, then either go at it 100 percent or just don't do it all."
Commenting on his recent tour, Martin added: "It went very well and I'm really looking forward to the gig at the Alley. It's the last one on my tour schedule so it should be a good night.
"I have six musicians from Strabane in my orchestra, including James McCafferty, Gerry Bradley and Laurence Quigg, so it'll be good for them to play in front of a home crowd. After that, I'm off to Las Vegas for a series of shows done over two weeks.
"It'll be all backing tracks out there, but I'm still very excited." he said.
You can catch Martin John this Saturday night at the Alley Theatre by contacting the box office on 02871 384444. Or for more information about Martin, log on to www.simplyswingpresents.com.
