Mr Television
Biography:
Roots music for the digital generation
There is something in the simplicity of a songwriter and a guitar that appealed to Simeon Bates (aka Mr Television) from a very young age.
The storytelling of Steve Earle and Johnny Cash; the transcendent vision
of Chris Whitley; to the raw emotion of Ryan Adams. And, of course, the melodies of The Beatles.
With neat finger-picked patterns and cracked imagery of weeping angels, colliding lovers and dry bones, Mr Television has found an authentic voice in the traditional troubadour style, fit for the modern world.
Experiences during his travels in the Middle East, South Africa and Eastern Europe, including Aids hospitals and orphanages, have helped colour his writing. Its added to an already perceptive take on everyday life.
‘Folk and country music have been a big influence on me. I’ve taken that inspiration and developed my own style which I think relates to the hopes and fears, love and loss, of my generation’ he says.
Maybe it’s the struggle for life that characterised his early years that has added to the soulfulness of his voice. In fact for his first two years he made no sound at all. He’s made up for it since, playing guitar, piano, harmonica as well as singing and writing almost obsessively.
Tune in to the emerging talent of Mr Television on 2008 EP On Air, latest offering Change the Channel 2010 EP and live.
Music Types
Band Images
Sample Tracks
| Track Name | Play Track |
| We Lost Joan | |
| Dreamer | |
| Falling Man |
Websites
http://www.mrtvonline.com