Meet Richard Coutts | Songwriter/musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Richard Coutts and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Richard, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
Music is an integral part of my life. Giving up has never occurred to me. Being an independent musician, there are times when you think why continue. If it’s about the money, then maybe I would need to have a serious talk with myself. I’ve been very fortunate throughout my life to have music as a second income as well as an artistic platform. As I get older, I feel I’m honing my craft to a point where I’m expressing my artistic vision and sharing that vision is what drives my work.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a songwriter/musician. Like so many musicians, the Beatles had a huge influence in my life. It opened my mind to a multitude of genres like R&B, blues, and jazz.
Every artist brings their own point of view and perspective to their work. It’s the sum total of learning, working hard at my craft and not ignoring inspiration when it comes. How I see something may be unique, or it may inspire someone to dig deeper into their own understanding. It’s my strong desire to connect with others that brings it all together.
I played in party/cover bands for many years and had the privilege of working with incredibly skilled musicians. There were always gigs. You just had to be diverse and have a spontaneity in your skills. If the instrument I was using was not required, I would learn quickly how to play another. It was always a good idea to be a vocalist as well. I stopped touring to give me time to explore my song writing passion.
The experience of teamwork within the band, and pulling out every creative stop to get the music right is probably what gives me a bit of an edge.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in southern Alberta near the Rocky Mountains. The rural landscape inspires me every day. I would definitely take my guest to Banff and the Kananaskis valley. Calgary, where I lived most of my life, has the Canadian National music centre celebrating great artists inducted to the Music Hall of Fame. It also has many instruments and studio equipment from famous international artists like Elton John, Stevie Wonder and the Rolling Stones. The Calgary Stampede is a must for a a new visitor. This is, after all, cowboy country. Well, at least for a week.
Calgary has many fine restaurants for all tastes. It is where the Asian delight, ginger beef, was created as well as the beverage, Bloody Caesar (like a Bloody Mary but with Clamato juice).
If you can afford the tickets, we might take in a hockey game. The Flames are always entertaining. Like most hometown sports fans, we wish they would win more often.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are many people who have supported me throughout my musical career. Parents, fellow musicians, teachers have encouraged me for years. My wife has been my greatest cheer leader and critic. You definitely need a sounding board to get a balanced response for the songs and performances. I jokingly refer to her as “my angel with a red pencil”.

Website: https://accidentalmartyr.ca

Instagram: @accidentalmart1

Linkedin: Richard Coutts Recording Artist Accidental Martyr

Facebook: Accidental Martyr Music

Youtube: @accidentalmartyr8269

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4wYc86eo33A0qedsvhJVvJ?si=EcFQuZUZS3KGydPrFOaDSA
(this site has the most streams)
iTunes/Apple Music: Accidental Martyr