How Ross Stewart Has Taken the Norfolk Music Scene by Storm

Music has an incredible power to bring us together.

Whether it’s singing at the top of your lungs with thousands at a concert, meeting friends through a fanbase on social media or connecting with others through a mutual memory of a song, music creates connections that can make a group of strangers feel like best friends.

And, here in Norfolk, the music community continues to grow by the day. From musicians playing their first gig at venues like the Waterfront and the LCR, to festivals such as Wild Paths that celebrate a multitude of genres, local musicians are surrounded by endless support and celebration.

I recently caught up with local musician, Ross Stewart, to discover his journey in the music industry, the importance of independent music venues and how he thinks we can overcome some problems the industry face.

When did you know that you wanted to become a musician?

It wasn't any single moment. 

I knew I loved music and playing music from the moment I started learning to play the guitar.

Since then, it's been a million different micro-decisions that have led to where I am now.

Describe your music in three words!

Such a hard question!

1. Decide

2. For

3. Yourself!

What power do you believe music has?

The greatest power is the ability to bring people together.

Where/ what do you draw inspiration from for your music?

Other songwriters, musicians, nature, life...

Describe your creative process when writing a song!

It usually starts with lyrics and melody, then chords and structure is fleshed out. But it's never really the exact same twice.

How do you deal with creative blocks?

Switch up the method. 

Sometimes, limitation is the best way to deal with it. Reduce the options and avoid paralysis.

What is your proudest moment as a musician?

Getting 100 people to sing on my song, playing the LCR, selling out headline shows. 

There's been a lot to be proud of, which in itself, I'm very proud of.

What do you love most about being part of the musical community across Norfolk?

The very, very strong sense of camaraderie. It's everywhere.

What impact has social media had on the music industry?

Much easier to get in front of people, but far more competition. 

It's a tool however, and when used correctly, it can be very powerful.

Across the country, many independent music venues have been forced to shut down due to a lack of funding and support. Why is it so important to support these venues?

It's important to stop the industry from becoming too top-heavy. 

If there are no grassroots venues, there is nowhere for grassroots musicians to play, hone their craft and break through.

What do you believe is the biggest challenge the music industry faces today (and how can we overcome this)?

Getting seen and getting opportunities to progress further. We overcome that by being persistent and taking everything we can.

There is also the looming threat of AI on creatives. To challenge this, we continue to champion authenticity and the beauty of people, individuality and imperfection.

What is the best piece of advice you have received during your journey as a musician?

Be kind.

The people you pass on the way up the ladder are the same people who will be there on the way back down.

What do you hope to achieve in 2026?

I'd like to do lots of festivals!

To keep up to date with the incredible music of Ross, you can head to his Instagram (@rossstewartofficial)!