A Macclesfield pop musician has stepped things up a notch with his third single.

Former All Hallows pupil Elliot Clayton (24) released When You're Not Around on Friday March 18.

The contemporary pop love song can be listened to by clicking the play button at the top of this article.

Fans of Bastille will find comfort in Clayton's voice, particularly in the chorus.

The three-and-a-half minute track is a sunny-sounding take of longing for someone after a recent break-up, with the songwriter reflecting on still infatuated with this person they split up with.

The new single follows 2021's Highway and Hold Ya.

"This song has more meaning to me [than previous singles]", said Elliot.

"It helped me personally get through something difficult. It was the first song I wrote that felt therapeutic.

"I wrote this song when I was in a dark place mentally. I had gone through a breakup and had this one question in my mind. Will I be happier when you're not around?

"The song helped me answer that question and it got me out of that dark place."

The crisp and clean production by Chris Oscillate of Oscillate Recordings in Knutsford elevates Elliot's voice to a new level.

"I love upbeat songs, and this song could have been really dull and sad if it was just piano," added Elliot.

"I had listened to lots of The Weeknd's songs and found inspiration in the sound. I wanted to create a pop and alternative rock song.

"The dream would be to be able to release an album and perform in front of lots of people. But thinking now, I will take it day by day and try to increase my reach and audience.

"I'm a very optimistic person and I'll always reach for the stars, so in my mind no matter what anybody says, I believe I will make it in this business one day.

"Hopefully if I work hard enough, that day will be coming soon."

The young performer regularly performs at Macclesfield venues such as The Pack Horse on Chelford Road in Broken Cross.

His next Macclesfield gig will be confirmed soon.

"I grew up in Macclesfield playing for Macclesfield Rugby Club, and lots of shows with amateur dramatics society Macclesfield Majestic Theatre Group," Elliot recalled.

"My major musical influence, and the person who made me want to make music was Micheal Jackson and the Producer Quincy Jones.

"Songwriting wise it would have to be people like Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift to Bruno Mars and Charlie Puth."

You can listen to the new track here or by clicking the red play button at the top of this article.

Alternatively you can listen on Apple Music and Spotify.

You can follow Elliot on Instagram.

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