Singer Rupert Caney has been busking for two years, and you can often see him performing around central London. I had the great opportunity to interview him about music and his busking experience.

Since when have you been interested in music?

I was obsessed with my parents vinyl collection when I was about 3 years old and would stare at the artwork and listen to the music. Since then I've always liked music but I became obsessed with playing/making music when I was about 13-14 and took up drums and guitar.

How was your first busking experience?

I first tried busking two years ago in Kingston town centre. I was terrified! It's a strange experience... it's not a gig/concert where people automatically watch you, you have to win them over. People are going about their day and you have to do something that makes them want to engage with you.

Best and worst busking experience?

Best experience was probably a bank holiday Saturday at Waterloo station. People were in good spirits and at one point I had a big crowd dancing whilst I was playing 'get lucky', 'moves like jagger' and lots of party songs. That was very memorable. That kind of thing has happened on a few occasions.

I don't have a 'worst experience' but it's always tough if I'm playing and literally nobody is interested in what I'm doing. That's when my mind wanders and I ask myself what I'm doing wrong or if this 'busking thing' is a stupid idea after all. Sometimes it's just not your 'lucky day' as they say. I've learnt to roll with it because it will always pick up again.

What's your goal to reach in the music industry?

I want to have a long and successful career as a singer/songwriter/performer. I want to release my own music and have a loyal fan base who want to see me play live.

Where would you like to see yourself in the next two years?

Performing full time, touring, writing & releasing new music. Most importantly, loving what I'm doing.

Who inspires you within the music industry?

Probably my favourite artists themselves because they're doing what I see myself doing. John Mayer is probably my favourite artist. I love his music and his musical progression throughout his career. I really like Ed Sheeran's stuff and other singer songwriters. I like a wide range of music though, from Bring Me The Horizon to Bieber, U2, The Chainsmokers, Drake etc

What advice would you give to those interested in busking/the music industry?

For people interested in busking: Just do it. The only way to overcome the fear of that first busk is to go out and do it! It gets easier the more you go out and play - and you get more confident. For people interested in entering the music industry... Well that's a big category. Decide what you really want to do - songwriter/singer/solo artist/band/manager/A&R etc - and become the best you can be at it.

...as long as it's what you love, you'll make it happen.

Chloe Lewis, Dartford Grammar School for Girls