‘British music has shaped me completely’

Arlo Parks

Singer and songwriter, 26

What book has most inspired you?

All about love by bell hooks taught me so much about the nuances of connection and desire; it helped me make sense of the world and embrace my sensitivity. She had such a compassionate and inspired approach to truth-telling that I try to carry with me wherever I go.

What albums or artists have most shaped your sense of self?

British music has shaped me completely. In Rainbows by Radiohead taught me to yearn, bend genres and embrace minimalism. Blue Lines and Mezzanine by Massive Attack moulded my taste in drums and song structure. Dummy by Portishead encouraged me to be as vocally naked and unafraid as possible. [The song] Archangel by Burial taught me to embrace the grime and the magic and the grey of London.

What cultural moments have felt most significant to you?

Radiohead headlining the Pyramid stage at Glastonbury. Tate Modern opening its programming into the late night.…