BIOGRAPHY

 

Chris' musical journey began at an early age, nurtured in an environment steeped in music. His father, a renowned piano player, was known for his comedic performances and his ability to play any song the crowd requested. Surrounded by music from the very beginning, Chris’ connection to his musical roots is deeply ingrained in his upbringing. By the age of three, he was already picking up the basics of piano, sitting on his father’s lap as he played, and absorbing the love of music. This early exposure, paired with a childhood obsession with a Meat Loaf VHS tape, ignited his passion for performing. Inspired by the larger-than-life theatrics of rock icons, Chris made the bold decision to stage his own concert at the age of eight, performing a full set of Meat Loaf’s biggest hits under the name “Malt Loaf” at the local Burley Village Hall. This early foray into performance laid the foundation for a lifelong dedication to music and live shows.

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As Chris grew older, his musical influences evolved, expanding to rock giants like Alice Cooper and Guns N’ Roses. At age 10, he picked up the guitar and began teaching himself the instrument, honing his skills with the guidance of his guitar teacher, John Wines (also known as the "Old Grey Guitarist" and a semi-finalist on America's Got Talent). Playing alongside his father at countless gigs, the guitar became his primary instrument. His passion for rock music led to the formation of several bands, including Colt 45, a group that gained local notoriety and even secured a production deal at the age of 15. While the band eventually disbanded, Chris' musical journey continued, and his next project, Hightown Parade, took shape in 2017.

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Hightown Parade was an alternative rock band that gained traction on the UK music scene, with Chris' dynamic songwriting and powerhouse vocals taking center stage. Their music, often described as anthem-driven rock, garnered airplay on radio stations such as Planet Rock, Kerrang!, and Scuzz. BBC Solent also featured Hightown Parade through the BBC Introducing program. Despite the band’s success, Chris found himself yearning for a creative outlet that allowed for greater freedom of expression and a chance to explore a wider range of influences.

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In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Chris took the opportunity to focus on his solo career. With the time and space to develop his production skills, he began creating original music in his bedroom studio. The result was a collection of songs that reflected his multifaceted approach to rock and pop, blending influences from the bold theatrics of Prince, the chameleon-like sound of Bowie, the hard rock edge of Nine Inch Nails, and the classic anthems of Queen. This new chapter, now under his own name, allowed Chris to explore his musical vision without the constraints of a band.

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In his solo work, Chris' songwriting delves into themes of vulnerability, determination, and the pursuit of dreams. His music is a reflection of the human experience, capturing both the triumphs and the struggles of life. The catchy hooks, anthemic melodies, and heartfelt lyrics of his songs connect with listeners on a deep, emotional level, creating a powerful bond between Chris Payn and his fans.

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Chris has already built a solid foundation for his career. As he continues to gain recognition across the UK and internationally, there is no doubt that he is on the verge of leaving an indelible mark on the rock and pop music landscape. With his electrifying live performances, unique fusion of genres, and unforgettable voice, Chris is poised to inspire a new generation of music lovers and solidify his place as one of the most exciting artists to emerge in recent years.

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In every song, in every performance, Chris Payn brings an energy that’s impossible to ignore—a true testament to his lifelong dedication to music and his unwavering belief in the power of rock and pop to unite, uplift, and inspire.