Scottish singer-songwriter Callum Beattie is poised for a remarkable year, with the release of his first independent album, a highly anticipated performance at Edinburgh Castle, and a headlining slot at the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival.
Beattie’s journey has been one of perseverance and determination. “When I was younger, I had nothing else really going for me other than my music,” he reflects. “I had these big dreams, and suddenly they are becoming real.”
The 28-year-old musician has already achieved impressive success, with his previous albums, “People Like Us” (2020) and “Vandals” (2023), both reaching number one on the Scottish album charts. Now, his third album, “INDI,” marks a significant milestone as his first release without a record label.
“It’s quite a big test for me,” Beattie acknowledges. “I genuinely think it’s an amazing album. The songs came very naturally, and I think if it comes easy, you’re in the right place, and they are probably good songs.”
Beattie’s music is deeply rooted in his Scottish heritage, with tracks like “Always Rains in Glasgow” capturing the essence of the country’s rainy days and the loneliness that can come with living in a city. “I wrote that last year literally in my flat in Glasgow,” he says. “As clichéd as it sounds, it was raining outside, battering on the window, and I think I had been listening to Bruce Springsteen and stuff like that.”
The upcoming gig at Edinburgh Castle holds a special significance for Beattie, who fondly remembers his early days playing pubs around the city’s Royal Mile, hoping to capture the attention of fans leaving other concerts. “It’s mental,” he exclaims. “It’s one of those things you will remember for the rest of your life. It’s a milestone moment. They’ll never leave you.”
Beattie’s connection to the Highlands has also played a crucial role in his career. He will be the Thursday night main act at the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, a dream he’s had since he was 15 years old. “For some reason, the Highlands always get behind me when I go up there to play gigs,” he says. “There’s always an amazing atmosphere, and they’ve taken me as one of their own.”
As Callum Beattie embarks on this exciting chapter, he remains grounded and grateful for the support of his family and friends who have been with him every step of the way. “People I begged to go to one of my gigs on a Monday night and I didn’t know how I would get through it,” he reflects. With his unwavering passion and the backing of his loyal fanbase, Beattie is poised to reach new heights in 2023.
