Despite his roots in blues and rock music, Ross Harding harbours a deep appreciation for classical music, particularly the works of Beethoven, with a specific fondness for Beethoven’s piano compositions, showcasing his diverse musical interests and influences beyond the realm of his own genre.
There’s probably a lot that you don’t know about this musician, but today my aim is to change that…
Here are 18 Interesting Facts you might not know about Ross Harding
1. Originally hailing from Boksburg, situated in the East Rand east of Johannesburg, Ross Harding resided in Pretoria for many years before relocating to Guildford, England.
This move marks his commitment to expanding his musical journey in the UK, with shows planned across various cities, demonstrating Ross’s dedication to reaching new audiences and his readiness to embrace new challenges and opportunities in pursuit of his musical goals.
2. Ross Harding leads a sober lifestyle, abstaining from drugs, alcohol, and other substances, which reflects his commitment to health, well-being, and personal discipline, perhaps influencing his focused and disciplined approach to his music career and creative pursuits.
3. Ross Harding hides “signatures” in his lyrics to engage with fans and create a deeper connection with his audience, allowing them to discover hidden meanings and messages within his songs, fostering a sense of intrigue and mystery around his music.
4. His single and video, ‘A Thousand Snakes’, is rooted in the haunting, dark, and sinister nature of bluesy tones, embellished with his unique style and personal reflection. This evocative approach to music-making showcases Ross’s ability to evoke emotion and create a rich sonic landscape that resonates with listeners on a visceral level.
5. Ross’s musical journey is marked by a deep connection to the raw emotion and authenticity of the blues, serving as the canvas for his creative expression. This profound connection to his musical roots informs every aspect of Ross’s artistry, from his songwriting to his live performances, ensuring that his music remains grounded in tradition while also pushing the boundaries of genre and style.
6. With an extreme interest in psychology, Ross Harding delves into topics such as psychopaths and serial killers, exploring both fiction and non-fiction works to gain insights into the human psyche and the darker aspects of human behaviour, which may influence his songwriting and thematic choices.
7. Ross Harding embarked on his musical journey in 2017 when he founded the Blues Rock band ‘Black Harbour Blues’, demonstrating his passion and commitment to the art of music from its inception. His decision to establish a band rather than pursue a solo career underscores his belief in collaboration and collective creativity.
8. Adorning the back of his left arm, Ross Harding proudly displays a Lord of the Rings tattoo, showcasing his love for the epic fantasy series created by J.R.R. Tolkien and perhaps symbolizing themes of heroism, adventure, and camaraderie that resonate with him personally and artistically.
9. During lockdown periods, Ross Harding immersed himself in the game of chess, finding solace and stimulation in the strategic challenges and intellectual pursuits offered by the ancient game, which may have provided him with a creative outlet and mental stimulation during times of isolation.
10. Ross Harding’s academic background includes a degree in Literature & Media, demonstrating his intellectual curiosity and academic pursuits, which may inform his songwriting process and lyrical content, drawing inspiration from literary themes and media studies.
11, A self-proclaimed foodie, Ross Harding has a particular fondness for pizza, indulging in the diverse flavours and culinary experiences offered by this beloved comfort food, which may serve as a source of inspiration and enjoyment in his daily life and creative endeavours.
13. As a history nerd, Ross Harding harbours a keen interest in medieval history, delving into the intricacies of this fascinating period and exploring themes of chivalry, warfare, and societal structures, which may inspire his songwriting and lyrical themes, drawing parallels between historical events and contemporary issues.
14. Notable highlights of his career include headlining the prestigious Drakensberg’s ‘White Mountain Festival’ and sharing the main stage at the RAMFest 2014 with renowned acts like Biffy Clyro, Trivium, Foals and Killswitch Engage. These achievements underscore Ross’s stature within the music industry and his ability to hold his own alongside established international artists.
15. In 2018, Ross co-hosted a sold-out ‘House of Blues’ show, featuring top South African Blues musicians such as Andre Kriel (The Black Cat Bones), Pepi Dimevski (Gunshot Blue), and Richard Bruyns. This collaboration not only showcases Ross’s versatility as a performer but also highlights his role in fostering a sense of community and camaraderie within the South African music scene.
16. He has supported major South African artists, including Dan Patlansky, The Narrow, Prime Circle and Fokofpolisiekar, while serving as the frontman for the acclaimed South African Super Rock Group Fear of Falling. Ross’s willingness to support and collaborate with fellow artists demonstrates his humility and commitment to the collective growth of the music industry.
17. His music explores the depths of the delta blues, intertwining personal struggles and philosophical reflections on human existence, resonating profoundly with soulful expression. This introspective approach to songwriting reveals Ross’s depth as an artist and his commitment to exploring the complexities of the human experience through music.
18. He captivates audiences with his vocal prowess and acoustic guitar finesse, whether performing solo acoustic sets or with his band. Ross’s ability to command the stage and engage listeners highlights his natural charisma and talent as a live performer.
Well, there you have it, 18 Interesting Facts you might not have known about Ross Harding. I would like to thanks Ross for providing us with these facts and I wish him all of the best with his future musical endeavors.
Watch this space for updates in the Facts category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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