Stewart Dugdale is a songwriter, working from his own studio in Shirley, Southampton. He works with local singers, writing songs to suit each person's partuicular vocal style, and claims to be able to write in any style.

Stewart has only recorded his own voice on one track, Day By Day, available as a download from his website. We decided to give it a listen.

Stewart says that he prefers downbeat music and that's certainly what this is. There are no drums at all. In terms of style it's no mainstream hit. It's possible to imagine it being part of a film soundtrack.

Day By Day

Stewart Dugdale

We reckon Stewart has a few Bob Dylan albums and maybe some Cat Stevens. The similarity is certainly there.

In recording terms, the track has the sound of a home studio. The overall mix is a bit dry and the balance is just a tad messy in places.

Stewart has been building a 'proper' studio in an outbuilding, to replace the set-up on which this was recorded and it would be interesting to hear a recording from the new studio.

As a song, Day By Day probably isn't going to win any awards and Stewart's performance, both vocal and instrumental, could be described as average, but is that the point?

Stewart is putting his money where his mouth is. He's building a studio and looking for others to join him in recording sessions. He's made a video for Day By Day - you can see it on his website - and he's working on a ten track CD, featuring local singers, to be recorded this year.

With so many aspects to his approach he might end up being a songwriter, a musician, producer, talent scout, recording engineer, publicity manager, video producer, the list seems endless.

Of course, many have walked the same path and ended up becoming an insurance salesman. Success requires many things, including a lucky break. Does Stewart have what it takes? What do you think?

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