Zak Abel: 'Deserve To Be Loved' music video premiere

Exclusive

UK artist Zak Abel (Press image)

Following a slot as the main support for Kwabs on his UK tour, 20-year-old artist Zak Abel has released the video for an impressive, emotional stripped back version of his track "Deserve To Be Loved".

From north London, Abel wrote his first song aged 14, moving into music professionally after a career in table tennis didn't work out and going on to score his first top 20 hit in October with Gorgon City's "Unmissable"

You might note similarities to fellow Brit Sam Smith, but [in this writer's opinion], Abel's vocals have less of that nasal sound and a little more soul.

Watch the video's exclusive premiere below and let us know what you think.

Q&A with Zak Abel

What artists have you been listening to recently?

Shakka - his new EP is an absolute masterpiece. I feel like he gets his feelings across very clearly, his song 'Heart Don't Lie' is the first song to have made me cry in such a long time. I am also really into Raury - I can't believe it took me this long to find out about him.

Can you talk a bit about the story behind "Deserve to be Loved"?

For various reasons I grew up with a distorted view of love and self-esteem, and that lends itself to whether you feel worthy of love. For a long time I didn't think I was worthy, and that can make you feel very alone in the world. And that's how I was feeling that day when I went into the studio to write, which is why the song is so raw.

How are you feeling about your gig at Notting Hill Arts Club?

Right now I am feeling nervous as I've just started rehearsing: I always get nervous before a gig. I am also excited because when I get up on stage I am reminded of why I make music. I am pretty excited as well as I have a new guitarist who is sick. I also have a fantastic surprise guest joining me for a song as well. It's Tom Misch. I can't keep a secret! It sold out pretty quickly and it's crazy seeing people try to get tickets on Twitter. There's supposed to be this mystique about artists and how they're all unattainable and cool; when you're onstage playing an intimate venue you can prove to people that that's all bollocks, and what it's really about is being in the same room and connecting with people.

What have you got lined up for next year?

I am making an album at the moment – I'm writing songs song for it right now, so there will be more music coming out. I'll also playing some gigs. And I will be trying to convince Mark Ronson to work with me.

Zak Abel plays Notting Hill Arts Club on 12 November