FOLLOWING a recent UK arena tour as guest to Bastille, the Harare-born London musician Rationale heads to Bristol’s Fleece as part of his own headline tour on January 23.Andy Howells recently put questions to the singer/songwriter.

How did you first start out in music?

I first started making music as a kid at secondary school. I was bullied a lot during the my few years there and I remember needing somewhere to escape the goons during break times. So, I found the music block, an amazingly inspiring hippy music teacher and a computer programme called Cubase. I haven't stopped since.

Who or what has inspired you most on your musical journey?

I've been inspired by a lot by a load of musicians through out my journey. Jimi Hendrix for his unorthodox playing style, Prince for boundless charisma, Michael Jackson for his amazing triple threat talent.

Can you give us some background about your latest release?

My next release song is called 'Reciprocate.'It's a really up tempo retro tinged soul track. It was created in collaboration with a really talented producer called Grades. I'd heard some of the stuff he'd created with NAO some months back and knew I wanted to collaborate with him.

You’re touring shortly are you looking forward to that?

Yes, I'm really looking forward to another headline tour and also joining Bastille on part of their European tour.

What can people expect from your forthcoming Bristol gig?

People can expect it to dance, furiously.

What are you enjoying listening to at the moment?

I'm listing to a lot of Childish Gambino at the moment, I think he's great. I'm also falling in love with Chaka Khan all over again.

What else have you got planned for the rest of the year?

I'm planning to release my album this year and touring across the UK and Europe.

For further updates on Rationale visit:

Twitter: @iamrationale

Instagram: @iamrationale