If one artist has felt the overwhelmingly beneficial impact of internet virality, it's the Colchester-raised Liam C. It may be his sneaking backstage on a video set to meet Ed Sheeran in Soho, serenading Dua Lipa at Glastonbury, Central Cee stopping by to see the busker graft on the streets of Manchester, or footage of him chasing down Will Smith's car with a banjo in hand that draws you in, but it's his undeniable charisma, unwavering determination, and eclectic soundscapes that'll keep you captivated.

Though TikTok fame and trending sounds are often short-lived and fleeting in nature, Liam C has combatted this, building a steady fanbase of listeners hooked, not just on his personality, but on his infectious, thrilling cuts. 

His debut offering, 'Dolla Dolla' — released July of this year — is a sharp, biting narrative of the debt trap, which received attention from the likes of Pete Doherty, James Buckley (The Inbetweeners), and Tom Grennan. Coming in quick succession, the sophomore offering 'Bang Bang' explores the explosive soundscapes of The Streets to create a track that cemented his craft as a musician and demanded that he not be underestimated. 

His most recent release, 'Tina', harks overt similarities to Jamie T ('Stella'), resulting in an indie-rock drenched cut that's instantly moreish. Following previously explored narratives, 'Tina' dives straight back into empty pockets of 'Dolla Dolla' ("done all my dough in the fruity / no cash left at the bar"), before swiftly turning his attention to prosperity with girls ("I'm going home with Tina / and now I'm getting texts of Sabrina"). Despite opening with romantic self-pity ("who do you think's gonna choose me / who's gonna steal my heart?"), the track is, at heart, an anthem for getting "unstuck" and eventual, long-awaited strokes of luck.

Co-produced by Future Cut (Lily Allen, Rihanna, PinkPantheress) and Ant Whiting (Rizzle Kicks, MIA), 'Tina' is an arena-ready honed offering that's equal parts fun and sincere.

Liam C isn't just a musician, an internet personality, or just another Cinderella story - he's a champion for "every underdog chasing the dream".

Lana Williams

@lanatakesphotos / @_lanaajade

Image: Provided by Liam C