Sebastian Schub on Yearning, Honesty, and His Debut EP, 'Sing Like Madonna'
interview
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interview ✦
After building momentum with a string of standout singles, London-based singer-songwriter Sebastian Schub officially bursts onto the scene with his debut EP, Sing Like Madonna, released June 6 via Interscope Records. Right out of the gate, the EP’s infectious title track makes a bold statement, highlighting Schub’s gift for crafting emotionally resonant music.
Forged on the streets of Hamburg, Schub’s distinctive sound took shape not through formal training, but through busking and open-mic nights. These raw early performances—including an early version of “Sing Like Madonna”—earned him a loyal grassroots following, now reflected in his 700,000+ monthly listeners. It’s easy to see why: Schub pairs a rich baritone with multi-instrumental talent, channeling both into soulful, timeless melodies that feel as lived-in as they are striking.
That authenticity has translated seamlessly to the stage. In recent weeks, Schub made his Glastonbury Festival debut and opened for Noah Kahan’s UK show in Cardiff—two major moments that underscore his growing presence. With additional support dates on the horizon, his live momentum is only accelerating.
Though more importantly, with Sing Like Madonna, Schub solidifies his voice as something singular—rooted in experience, rich with emotion, and ready for a global stage.
Photo Credit: Emilia Staugaard
Congratulations on the release of your EP Sing Like Madonna. Was there a core idea or theme that you wanted to explore with this project?
Sebastian Schub: I think the core theme of this EP is with no doubt, yearning. Yearning for something more, yearning for someone, yearning for a better version of yourself. The songs are all about a variety of different topics and experiences, but in retrospect, there is definitely a strong sense of longing at the core of all of them.
You wrote this collection of songs in the studio, your basement, and basically anywhere you had something to say. Is there one particular songwriting moment/experience that stands out as a defining moment for the EP?
Sebastian Schub: Writing the ‘stupid boy’ line on “Sing Like Madonna” was a real turning point for the song. It almost accidentally transformed the song from something a little bit gimmicky to resonating much more deeply. Finding that nucleus was a real eye opener for me.
You’ve said that busking and open-mics shaped your path more than music school. Was there anything you learned from those experiences that you also carried into this EP?
Sebastian Schub: Yes I have definitely always struggled in the classroom. So learning on the job was more my cup of tea. When writing and recording I always try to keep the live shows in mind and the years busking have definitely influenced the way I write.
How did collaborating with producers like Steve Fitzmaurice and Dann Hume help shape the sound of Sing Like Madonna?
Sebastian Schub: They have impacted the sound massively and I have learned a lot from them. I went into the studio with nothing more than some very inspired, but also quite rough sketches. And they really stepped in to help me to develop them. I’ve been super fortunate to meet creative powerhouses with such generous collaborative spirits.
With recent shows in New York and LA, and a Noah Kahan support slot at BST Hyde Park coming up, which song feels most natural to perform live right now?
Sebastian Schub: “Blisters & Sunburn” has been a clear crowd favourite at shows. Great crowd participation. It’s super fun playing conductor with a field of 20,000 people. Pretty surreal.
With Sing Like Madonna out in the world, are you already planning your next creative steps, or are you savoring this moment after all the hard work?
Sebastian Schub: I’m always writing and always recording. Working on my first album, and more music is coming sooner than you might think. There is so much more that I’m eager to share.
