“When things seem bad they always get better.”
Arguably one of Dundee’s best known artistic exports has been The View, whose debut album went platinum in 2007. Their lead singer Kyle Falconer has since gone solo in the decade since his band were at their peak powers.
Battles with alcoholism and drugs have been well documented, however Kyle has reached a calmer place.
What has been your biggest life challenge so far and what did you do to overcome it?
The anxiety that came about four years into good solid touring,
I became too anxious to perform without drinking or taking drugs and began to vomit every time I thought about playing.
Thought I was going to have to give up music, move away to move to Australia to become a bricky.
I overcame it when I realised what the cause was, and removed it from my life, and trained my body to stop reacting to that feeling.
What do you think affects your mental health positively?
I’m big on Feng Sui, if your surroundings are clean and organised around you, it’s a great vibe.
Surrounding yourself with positive people.
And negatively?
Just the opposite of the above really, just being around negative places or people and getting suckered into it!
I try to limit my social media use as well and attempt to be present in the moment.
What role does creativity play in your wellbeing?
Every time I write a song it’s like a weight off my shoulder.
It must release some endorphins or something cause I just feel fucking great!
Also listening to your favourite band, favourite song, can really take you to another place.
What are you currently reading, watching and listening to?
Watching, American Shameless – loving the chaos.
Loved the UK one. Good to see the characters in a different style.
Listening to the composer Gustov Mahler, he reminds me of death which makes me feel alive, and helps me write.
Reading Freddie Mercury’s biography – always been a hero of mine.
He was a very interesting and unique guy.
What music gives you a boost?
Right now The Struts are my go to, you can’t not smile when they are on!
What are your favourite foods?
A really good cheeseburger, sweet little devils in a bap!
I try not to eat many of them, I’m trying to eat healthy food too, which I love, great for a clear and positive mind!
Do you like to exercise or meditate at all?
I’ve done meditation before and got into it, but I find it hard to find peace and quiet now with my lifestyle.
Most days I run, and that’s my meditation.
What is the best advice you’ve received in regards to your wellbeing?
The world is round, everything comes back around, it’s just a circle.
When things seem bad they ALWAYS get better.
How have you changed since 15?
It sounds cliche, but just don’t drink as much and take as many drugs.
There are some heavy blackouts from a lot of my youth. I wish that wasn’t the case! It’s not a race.