Step Adams is what I’d call a songwriter’s songwriter, a guy who writes about the realities of life, the human experience in all its shapes and forms. His songs are deep and meaningful, they deal with topics most of us don’t really talk about ... and yet they resonate with anyone past their twenties. Together with his band 23 FIELDS Adams offer us something that his bio calls "comforting familiarity". I fully agree with him on this description. Listening to his music is like visiting a close friend or returning home. You’re safe and warm and in the presence of something you want more of.
The thing that caught my eye when reading about you was that the band is comprised of middle-aged musicians. That’s intriguing. What’s your goal in music?
Ideally to make a living through my music.
Who all are in the band and how did you guys come together?
Lou and I used to work in A&E together (she’s still there!), Jason was my barber and during covid, I started writing again, Lou came round and played some violin. It just felt right so played the recording's we'd made to Jason during a haircut and he asked if we wanted drums (he’s a pro drummer with a long history) and there we have it!
Step, you are the one who writes the songs. Could you tell us a little about what inspires you to write?
Everyday life, experiences etc. Mostly just storytelling of various life experiences.
What is “You’re Alright” about?
This was written after finding out a few friends had been struggling lately with day-to-day survival, finances but also other things. The song's about looking after yourself, and the well known phrase, “It’s ok not to be ok”.
Your music has a good amount of Americana in it and yet you are from the UK. How did this happen?
Americana is a bit of a blanket term for music that doesn’t fit into one specific genre but is originally based on American roots. I’m still wondering how this happened, just started playing and writing and this is what’s turned out. I have quite a history with folk and always loved the singer-songwriter stuff, just a style that I found I could sing!
You released an album in 2023 called “The World is Raining”. Could you please tell us about it? How did it come together?
My partner Paula bought me some studio hours when I started playing again, so off I went to record the new songs, then Lou popped in, then Jason ... so it was all recorded backwards on a very small budget £400 I think, you can tell that in the production.
One of my favourite tracks on that album is “Growing Old”. What's that about?
This was written for my dad, seemed to just happen over night that I noticed he was getting older and not being able to do the things he used to. He asked me to tile his bathroom, as in his words, his DIY days were over. Still can’t play it live without my eyes welling up.
According to your Spotify bio, you took twenty-five years off from music. Why? And more importantly, what made you come back?
I focussed on my career as an Emergency nurse and never really believed that I could have a career in music. My partner Paula gave me the kick up the arse needed and "The World Is Raining" had some really positive feedback so I just kept going.
What was your childhood like?
Pretty good, really. I spent a few years in Tanzania as a child thanks to my dad having the balls to uproot the family and move out there. It was the best experience and I have many, many fond memories of that time.
Our next single, due out on the 18th of December, is called "Afrika Nitarudi" – Africa I will return – and is a reflection on my childhood.
When and how did your journey as a songwriter start?
At school, I was always writing little tunes. Having said that, I recently found a tape I recorded when I was about 15/16 and that is going to be kept under lock and key!
Where does the name 23 FIELDS come from?
The first time I went to a studio I was 23. It was in an old stable in the middle of nowhere. I came out and was surrounded by fields and the name just stuck with me.
What do you have in store for us in 2026?
Our third album "The Vacant Stars Of Wandering Souls" is being released in its entirety on Christmas day 2025.
Also, I have just booked the producer for some more recording – 5 new tracks with subjects ranging from society glued to phones and the internet to a friend who was involved in a car accident. That EP (untitled as yet) will hopefully be released early summer.
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