Paddy Echo, real name Patrick Leishman, has just released his second single Still Fall For You, a song he calls “future-retro synth-pop”, in collaboration with Alexander Price aka Wildwood. Impressively he’s already got a management deal with Page 1 Management, who also look after the likes of Broods and Joel Little. Paddy was featured on NZ On Air Music‘s NewTracks compilation this October, so we were curious to find out more about him.

What’s your name, where are you from and what instruments do you play, if any?

My full name is Patrick (Paddy) Leishman and I was born in Auckland, NZ. I have played a number of instruments over the years with some sticking and some falling away! My seven-month stint at violin at 8 years old, an example of the latter! I play guitar and piano the most and have done since primary school, as well as dabbling with the drums and bass.

Any high school or other music training that was important to you?

For me, my time spent at my high school, Senior College, was the most defining time for me as a musician. I had a brilliant music teacher, Nick Duirs, who pushed me to continue music and songwriting outside of high school. Without his influence, I would not have studied music at tertiary level. I also studied classical voice from the age of six, which was also hugely important and pivotal in my growth as a singer. I don’t miss the exams though!

What other projects might we know you from?

The only other project of mine was my first solo project, Little Sir Echo, which I started when I lived in the UK. It was a very DIY/record at a mate’s home studio/bedroom stems kind of vibe, but is something that I am very proud of.

What’s the background to how Paddy Echo came to be as a project?

Paddy Echo is an evolution from that first solo project. When I moved back home after my few years away, it felt like the right time to change it up on the music front, both in sound and project. It wasn’t until I jumped into the studio with Alex Price, aka Alex Wildwood (co-writer/producer), last year that this new sound started to develop. It became clear to me then, in those early sessions, that it was the right time to begin this next chapter.

How has your music evolved from your beginnings in songwriting to where it is now?

My songwriting has evolved immensely. The main difference for me is that I am learning to really love collaborating, which is something that I hadn’t done much of in the early stages of my songwriting. It was always a ‘sit alone in my room and write a song’ kind of scenario with me until a couple of years ago, and now, I honestly believe I thrive more with someone else in the room. Another set of ears is so valuable to me now when it comes to writing.

How did you arrive at the Paddy Echo name?

The ‘Echo’ in Paddy Echo comes from that original project, Little Sir Echo, which is the title of the old 1930’s Bing Crosby song that my grandmother Nanette used to sing to us as children! I wanted to keep it in my name as it holds strong sentimental value to me, and I love that she continues to be a part of my music. Nan was the one who convinced my mother to enrol me into singing lessons all those years ago and her piano sits in our living room. I play it every day.

What makes Still Fall For You stand out (for you) as a single?

This song is incredibly important to me. The second I got back the demo after the first session in September last year, I knew it was a track that I needed to release. At the time, it felt like I had finally said what I’d been trying to admit to myself for a long time. Whether I still feel the same way now, I’m unsure, but regardless it was a big deal for me then.

What’s the story behind Still Fall For You?

Without going into too much detail, this song is about stopping and asking the questions – not only of the person that the song is about but to myself as well. I got to a point last year where I just wanted clarity.

What’s your favourite moment of the single?

I’m a sucker for a self-indulgent guitar solo and there is most definitely one in this track! (Shout-out to Alex Wildwood!) Also the line in the pre-chorus; “I’m with you although we come and we go” – that sums it up pretty perfectly for me and I’m sure/hope that said someone feels the same way.

Who did you write/produce the single with and where? 

As I’ve mentioned, I wrote and recorded this track with my close friend, Alex, in his Kingsland studio. He helped bring the song to life, not only on the writing front, but with his incredible production as well. We are pretty in-tune when it comes to our music taste so that is a massive bonus, especially on a creative level. There were so many funny moments. Every session with him is hilarious and I value our friendship immensely.

What would you like listeners to take away from this song?

Honestly, whatever they want to feel!

In general, how do you work out what song would make a good single?

I know it seems like a simple answer, but it’s truly based on feel. My first single, Best Friend, stood out to me in a big way. It sat with me emotionally and creatively and Still Fall For You has done the same.

Can you please tell us three other local tunes that should be on a playlist alongside your song.

These guys are by no means new but my favourite recent kiwi tracks right now are:

• The Leers – So Far
• Paige – Bloom
• Bailey Wiley – Yours Truly

Have any of your previous applications not resulted in funding or inclusion on NewTracks? Got any advice? 

This is the first time I have ever applied for funding so I a feel very lucky to have been included!

Was there an NZOA criterion you struggled with in the application? 

Not particularly. I had great help from my management at Page 1 and we answered everything as best we could!

Are there any musical blogs, Youtube channels or podcasts you’re super into?

Ohh I am HUGELY into podcasts. My favourites are:

• Today Explained (Vox & Stitcher)
• Happy Place (Fearne Cotton)
• Broken Record (Malcolm Gladwell & Rick Rubin)
• George Ezra & Friends
• Table Manners w. Jessie Ware
• The Infinite Monkey Cage (BBC)
• Under The Skin (Russell Brand)

I could go on and on!

How can we find you on social media?

Facebook 
Instagram
Twitter
YouTube

Any last words?

I hope everyone loves this single! I am looking forward to having it out in the world. I would also love to thank NZ Musician for their support.