Living in the sunnier, laid back climes of California, it would be hard not to write a song that was bursting full of optimism, hope and inspiration. ‘Rolling Stone‘ by Pete MacLeod is a song that brings the warmth of LA through your speakers with a message that’s simple but appealing and that makes you want to pack your bags and head out on a voyage that’s yours and yours alone, becoming too, a Rolling Stone.
The Glasgow born and raised musician has spent the last five years living in Los Angeles and this influence can be heard in his new release. Behind the cheerful song however, is a darker reality, with Pete having returned to Glasgow due to his father being diagnosed with cancer.
In 2008, in what could be considered as a pioneering move, Pete released his ‘This Is Modern Soul‘ album on his website for free, something that has been copied by numerous musicians since, only to greater publicity. This time, the song isn’t being given away, but is being used to raise funds for those suffering from cancer, with sale proceeds going to Cancer Research UK.
Everyone needs to live a nomadic experience at some point, and this song pulls at the strings, encouraging just that. Even the artwork, by Stefan Duerr (sleeve designer for Ocean Colour Scene) screams of sun-filled adventures.
Having already sold out King Tut’s on previous occasions, you’ll find Pete performing there again in May but before that, catch him at Glasgow’s Pivo Pivo on the 9th of February, where a DJ set by the legendary Alan McGee will follow his acoustic session.
The single was officially released on the 1st of January and can be purchased on iTunes and Amazon. This is a song that deserves to be purchased for a number of reasons!
Keep up to date with all the latest Pete MacLeod news over on his Myspace page and official website.
(Barry Begg)
