Gavin & Stacey Star Oscar Hartland Hopes His Band Will Be the Next Stereophonics
By Lamielsidenews | Entertainment
Oscar Hartland, best known for playing Neil the Baby in the hit British sitcom Gavin & Stacey, is working towards a career in rock music and hopes his band can follow in the footsteps of successful Welsh rock groups such as the Stereophonics.
The 17-year-old actor and singer attracted widespread attention during the sitcom’s Christmas 2024 finale, when he performed The Beatles’ song Blackbird at the wedding of his on-screen father, Smithy, played by James Corden.
The performance introduced many viewers to Hartland’s singing ability and helped bring attention to his musical ambitions.
A New Sound for Wales
Hartland, who comes from Machen in Caerphilly county, South Wales, has recently released a single titled Wild Bull. He says the song reflects his energetic personality and the experiences of growing up in the Welsh valleys.
Speaking to BBC Radio Wales, Hartland explained that he and his bandmates want to develop a distinctive modern sound that reflects their Welsh roots.
He described the track as a reflection of his younger years, when he was energetic, adventurous and always looking for something to do.
According to Hartland, the goal is not simply to make music but to build a movement that listeners can feel connected to.
His band includes Cayden Hughes on bass, Aiden Williams on drums and Deacon Ball on electric guitar. The musicians have been working together to develop their sound and establish their identity.
Hartland said the response to the new release had been encouraging, with listeners showing strong interest and interacting with the band online.
From The Voice Kids to Gavin & Stacey
Hartland’s musical journey began attracting attention when he appeared on The Voice Kids at the age of 14.
His performance of Foo Fighters’ My Hero impressed viewers and caught the attention of Gavin & Stacey creators James Corden and Ruth Jones. They subsequently approached him about appearing in the sitcom’s 2024 finale.
His role as Neil the Baby had already made him familiar to fans, but the finale gave him an opportunity to showcase another side of his talent.
The Christmas Day episode became a major television event, drawing millions of viewers in the UK. Hartland has said he is amazed that audiences continue to remember and discuss the performance.
He has also expressed gratitude for the encouragement he receives from members of the show’s cast as he explores opportunities beyond acting.
Recording in a Famous Welsh Studio
Hartland has been recording music at Rockfield Studios in Monmouthshire, a Welsh recording facility associated with internationally known artists and bands, including Queen and Oasis.
He has spoken enthusiastically about the studio’s musical history and hopes to continue recording there as his career develops.
For the young musician, working in such an environment is an opportunity to learn, experiment and find the sound he wants to bring to audiences.
His ambitions come as he continues to explore different parts of the entertainment industry. Although music is currently his main focus, Hartland has not ruled out returning to acting.
He has also expressed interest in recording a version of Run, the song by Stephen Fretwell associated with Gavin & Stacey.
Looking Beyond Television Fame
Hartland’s journey highlights how a memorable television appearance can open doors to other creative opportunities.
While audiences may continue to recognise him as Neil the Baby, he is determined to establish himself as a musician in his own right.
Whether his band eventually reaches the heights of the Stereophonics remains to be seen, but Hartland is focused on developing his sound, releasing music and building a connection with listeners.
For now, the former child star is taking his next steps in music while keeping the door open to future acting roles.
Sources
- "BBC News – Gavin & Stacey and Oscar Hartland" (https://www.bbc.com/news)
- "British Comedy Guide – Gavin & Stacey: The Finale" (https://www.comedy.co.uk/tv/gavin_stacey/episodes/2024/1/)
- "Female First – Oscar Hartland’s Music Career" (https://www.femalefirst.co.uk/tv/news/gavin-stacey-neil-baby-says-thankful-james-corden-ruth-jones-1411512.html)
- "LADbible – Oscar Hartland and His Music Career" (https://www.ladbible.com/entertainment/gavin-stacey-neil-the-baby-the-voice-kids-950819-20230627)
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