MUSSELBURGH singer-songwriter Callum Beattie's third studio album is out today.
The new album, INDI, is his first to be released completely independently following his decision to step away from making music under major labels.
Speaking to the Courier in October, Callum said that the "next goal on the horizon" was for his new independent release to hit the Top 5 in the UK Album Charts.
The album has been described by his management as the most important of his career to date.
Dave Rogers, Callum's friend and manager, said: "I was working out this week, that I’ve made, contributed to, been involved in over 200 albums in my career, but without a shadow of a doubt INDI has been the most important.
"We poured our absolute hearts into every single aspect of the record and I’ve never believed in anything so much in my entire life.
"So much music these days is made to hit an algorithm or to appeal to a certain radio station, or whatever the current trend is."
The duo said they made a conscious decision to step away from the pressures of creating a 'hit', instead striving to make music that has "honesty, integrity and authenticity".
Known for hits including Salamander Street, What it Means and We Are Stars, Callum first developed his craft playing in pubs around the Royal Mile and the Lothians in 2019.
The release of INDI comes during a landmark period in Beattie’s career after he headlined the OVO Hydro in Glasgow last November.
In July, he is set to headline Edinburgh Castle Summer Sessions, an offer he initially thought was a joke, before describing the opportunity as “surreal”.
The Castle Esplanade performance marks another major milestone for the East Lothian musician, who began by busking on Edinburgh’s streets before building a loyal following across Scotland and beyond.
After parting ways with major label Universal, Rogers said that the decision to go it alone had not been easy financially, but that it has been vindicated by the response from fans.
He also paid tribute to the support Beattie had received from fans throughout his career.
He added: “I wanted to take this opportunity before the absolute madness kicks in this week to say an enormous thanks to all of you guys for supporting us and always having our backs.
"Without you, none of this would be possible and Callum and I are both very grateful to have built our little tribe alongside all of you.
"You are honestly different gravy."
The team are now hoping fans can help push INDI, now out on all major streaming platforms, into the top five of the UK Album Chart.
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