Calum Scott has unveiled his latest studio album, “Avenoir,” which features a posthumous collaboration with the legendary Whitney Houston. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the British singer discussed the making of the album and his experience working on the track with Houston’s estate.
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Reflecting on the past decade of his music career, Scott expressed his pride in the body of work he has created. The album “Avenoir,” released on October 10, is a 14-track project that allowed Scott to delve into his journey in the music industry and acknowledge his growth and achievements. He shared that the album represents a challenge to live more in the present and appreciate life’s unpredictability.
The standout feature of the album is the posthumous duet with Whitney Houston on the track “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me).” This collaboration marked the first time the late music icon’s original vocal stems have been used posthumously. Scott described the experience of working with Houston’s voice as both intimidating and inspiring, highlighting the importance of stripping the song back to its core elements.
In discussing the title of his album, Scott revealed that the word “Avenoir” resonated with him as it encapsulates the desire to see memories in advance. He reflected on his humble beginnings, working in a grocery store, and expressed gratitude for the unexpected opportunities and experiences that have come his way in the past decade.
Scott opened up about his personal connection to Whitney Houston’s music, citing her songs like “How Will I Know” and “I Will Always Love You” as favourites from her discography. He shared his admiration for Houston’s vocal prowess and the impact her music had on him growing up.
In addition to the collaboration with Whitney Houston, the album features a duet with country artist Lauren Alaina. Scott discussed the organic process of working with Alaina and how their collaboration fit seamlessly into the overall theme of the album. He also touched on the vulnerability portrayed in songs like “Gone,” which explores the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
As Scott navigates his music career and explores themes of love, parenthood, and vulnerability in his music, he also addresses the challenges of dating in the music industry. He expressed a desire to start a family in the future and acknowledged the difficulties of finding a partner who understands the demands of his career.
The release of “Avenoir” marks a significant chapter in Calum Scott’s musical journey, showcasing his growth as an artist and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level. With the inclusion of the posthumous Whitney Houston collaboration and heartfelt tracks that reflect his personal experiences, Scott’s latest album is a testament to his artistry and authenticity.