British singer-songwriter Lewis Knaggs has built a reputation for writing songs that cut straight to the emotional core, blending indie rock, Americana and grunge with an honesty that feels both intimate and uplifting. Whether performing in stripped-back settings or on major stages, his music is driven by a belief that the most powerful stories are often the most personal.
His latest single 'Forget How to Forgive' is perhaps his most revealing work to date. Written in the wake of personal loss and recorded in a single take with nothing more than voice and acoustic guitar, the song reflects on grief, forgiveness and the importance of embracing life while there's still time. It's a raw, unfiltered performance that captures the emotion of the moment exactly as it was felt.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Gibson 335. My Dad had a version of it called a Gibson EB2, it’s a beautiful shape. I saw his one and fell in love with it.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I was an indie kid mostly. But I started off skating so Tony Hawk’s playlist was the one: Rage Against the Machine, Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Green Day.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I think it was Nirvana, Nevermind
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Springsteen, Thunderroad
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I write best in-between the happy and sad moments. That no man’s land seems to be the sweet spot for me.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
The Scratch - my girlfriend's Irish, she put me onto them. Also been on a Queens of the Stone Age and System of a Down kick after watching them live recently.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Bruce Springsteen!
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Emptying your head in the studio and hearing back what you wanted to hear - when you've actually captured the essence of the song. Then putting it out into the world and watching people connect with it.
And what is the most frustrating part?
When you have just recorded a new song you’re really excited about but you have to wait to release it.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
My Dad told me it sometimes just takes that one song. So keep at it.
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Lewis Knaggs' new single 'Forget How To Forgive' is out now. Check it out in the player below.