How do you unwind at the weekend?
I usually work, teaching acoustic guitar to kids. It's good fun. I love mentoring and tutoring and I also teach songwriting. My style is pop, R&B and I love it. One of my heroes is definitely Amy Winehouse who's a huge influence. I grew up listening to her. But I also like Bob Marley – you can't go wrong with him – and Corinne Bailey Rae.
What do you recall about weekends growing up?
Being in mid-Ulster was fantastic. The great thing about Derry is you have the Sperrins, beautiful mountains and countryside. My mum Patricia always worked in finance and for the council. I don't know where the music gene came from. I started out when I was 16 in 2012 at a music festival called Glasgowbury in my home town. My parents aren't musical but I do have an aunt, Marie-Anne, who plays the saxophone. And a cousin who plays drums...
Friday night or Saturday night?
I'm both! Saturday night is go out and party night, Friday night is chill night. I love a wee DVD and a hot chocolate – I'm really into sci fi and love Star Trek.
Do you have a must-listen weekend radio show?
It would be Radio 1 and definitely Annie Mac, also True Tiger and the likes of Greg James and I really like the music on Radio 6. I got the new job after Radio 1 contacted me, asking if I'd like to send in a few demos and saying there was a potential opportunity. Of course I said Yes. I sent in two tapes, trying to get in that energy and fun element that Radio 1 has on my first demo. With the second, I wanted to sound personable, showing that I connect with people. So the first tape contained the tracks I play on Radio Ulster from here and all across Ireland. In the second, I played all new music. They asked for more material, then phoned me to say I'd got the job.
Must-watch TV show/box set?
Ru Paul's Drag Race. It's great if you're feeling a bit sad. I have always been into Harry Potter and read all the books. I also love listening to kids now talking about them.
Favourite eatery – or is it a takeaway?
I do love a good takeaway. Pizza is my favourite and I like a simple pepperoni. If you add too much to a pizza, it doesn't work. Because of lockdown, we couldn't go out to celebrate the news of my Radio 1 job. My mum and I celebrated with a fry.
Is Sunday still special?
For me, Sundays mean going for a walk or going to explore, having an adventure. Last Sunday, I went to Co Tyrone with my mum and a friend. It was really nice with the autumn leaves and there were loads of cyclists on the bike trails.
How do you feel on Sunday night about Monday morning?
I don't get that feeling about not having done my homework. It's my Radio Ulster show on Monday and I think 'Get in and let's do it'.
Across The Line with Gemma Bradley is on BBC Radio Ulster and Radio Foyle, 9.30pm, Mondays.
