When Jay McAllister was growing up he says he hated country music, but now he absolutely loves it and admits that it influences his sound. The 35-year-old, who performs as folk artist Beans on Toast, is now heading back to St Albans as part of his latest tour. We caught up with him to find out more.

Can you tell me about your latest tour?

The Small Towns celebration tour kicks off at The Horn in St Albans - the idea of the tour is to visit some of the countries finest small towns meet up with local musicians, check out some local culture, have a few drinks and play a gig. Most of the towns on the tour I’ve never played or even been to before, however, we chose to start at The Horn, as I’ve played there lots and think it’s a great venue that does a brilliant job in bringing music to St Albans.

How long have you been in the music industry for?

I’ve been making music as Beans on Toast for about 10 years now, with seven albums under my belt. I played in a band for my teenage years and between that I was still writing and performing here and there, so it’s something that I’ve always done.

Is there a musician who inspired you to become a musician?

I’d say Jim Morrison had a pretty big impact on me as a teenager, his kind of wild magic was something I was really drawn to - still am.

How do you write your songs… does it start from sound or an emotion?

I’d say it starts more with a passing thought. An opinion, or something a sentence or phrase seems to be a good start. That said the best thing about songwriting is that there are no rules. Songs can come from anywhere.

What have you learnt most about being a musician?

Never underestimate the power of a song.

When you were starting out what kind of job did you have to do to make ends meet in realising your dream?

I’ve always kind of dipped my toe into the pub game as well, pulled a few pints and promoted gigs and clubs. It’s something I still do as well, it helps from having to see the music as a form of making money. Obviously it’s nice to get paid for your art, but it shouldn’t be the main drive behind it.

Can you tell me some background information about yourself – what’s your hometown like?

I grew up in Braintree, Essex in a kind of semi-detached, two up, two down kind of environment. Although I left as soon as possible I have a lot of love for Braintree. My closet friends are all there and we had a ball growing up together.

Where do you like to hang out where you live now and why?

I spend so little time at home at the moment that if I got the chance I’d hang out on my sofa, but in down time in London you’ll generally find me at The Monarch in Camden.

What music did your parents listen to when you were growing up and has this affected your style or inspired your music?

Yeah, big time inspired me. I grew up on a diet of The Beatles (my mum) and country music (my old man). As a kid I hated country and took the p*** a lot, but later in life I came back to it and now I love it. Most country songs are about drinking, travelling and wearing your heart on your sleeve - same as mine.

Did you have any musical instruments growing up at home?

Not until I asked for one and was treated to the Argos, Encore starter pack that was all the rage at the time.

Who were your music teachers and did they have any influence on your style?

Definitely not, no, Can’t even remember their names.

Beans on Toast comes to The Horn, Victoria Street, St Albans, May 10, 8pm. Details: 01727844627, thehorn.co.uk