Conor Maynard: 'Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson inspired my album'

Conor Maynard has revealed his main inspirations for his upcoming debut album Contrast.

The 19-year-old singer will release his first LP on July 30, containing his singles 'Can't Say No' and 'Vegas Girl'.



Talking about his singing heroes, he told The Sun: "Justin Timberlake has inspired me and influenced me since day one, along with people like Usher and Michael Jackson.

"It is really exciting when people compare me and Justin, I like that."

Contrast features the British singer collaborating with rapper and producer Pharrell Williams among others.

On working with Williams, he said: "If someone had told me a few years ago that I would be working with Pharrell on my first album, I'd have laughed in their face.

"It's a crazy thing. He's such a humble, cool man. While we were recording he pretty much spent the time playing Mario Kart on the Wii."



Maynard has also performed a duet with Ne-Yo on the album, while also working on a song written by Frank Ocean.

He added: "The song I've made with Ne-Yo - 'Take Off' - is the party track. It's the one that is going to get stadium crowds on their feet, partying like they are in Vegas.

"When I was singing covers I did a lot of ballads, so I thought with this album I'd go in a new direction.

"The track 'Pictures' is sort of a modern-day ballad. It's written by Frank Ocean, who is incredibly talented."

Conor Maynard will release his new single 'Vegas Girl' on July 22.

He will embark on a full UK tour in July and August, starting on July 26 at Liverpool's O2 Academy 1.

Watch the video for Conor Maynard's 'Vegas Girl' below: