Asa Heart is a shining star. What do you mean you haven't heard of him yet? Well for those of you who haven't heard his name ringing in your ears you soon will because the Walton-born swing singer's star is shining so brightly so big so quickly that he has just managed to get his own gig at the Liverpool Philharmonic on the 9th of May. Exciting stuff hey!

I met Asa on a windy afternoon in Liverpool city centre so he could tell me more. Here's how it went, writes Emma Kreft.

EK: I know this is a personal question but how old are you?
AH: 36.

EK: Now I know you're a local chap but where were you born?
AH: In Mill Road Hospital. I now live in Maghull.

EK: How long have you been a singer?
AH: Well, I've been doing it professionally for six years, prior to that I was a care worker but have also filled vending machines in my time.

EK: You must be really excited about the gig at the Liverpool Phil how did that come about and what are you most looking forward to?
AH: My manager Tony Nun managed to set this up for me. I can't wait to perform in front of my home crowd. It gives me such a buzz singing in front of all my friends and family and the Liverpool Phil is a place that I've dreamt of performing in for a long time so its like a dream come true.

EK: What is your favourite song?
AH: The anniversary song.

EK: How did you get into singing in the first place?
AH: I've always liked doing it but it wasn't until a friend of mine put on a black tie ball and asked me to do some singing for him. It just felt comfortable at the time and as the old saying goes the rest is history.

EK: What do you think of all these TV talent shows?
AH: I'm not a fan of them at all. In my view when I watch them all I see is some very rich people trying to make a career out of people who need professional help.

EK: What advice would you give to all of the bussing starlets in Merseyside?
AH: Believe in your ability. Be realistic and be determined but above all work hard so that you produce something unique.

EK: Do you find it quite challenging to write your own songs?
AH: No. If I have an idea and as long as I'm given peace and quiet to be creative then I can work around the times when the ideas don't flow as quickly. I never force it.

EK: How do you respond to criticism?
AH: Easy, never take it personally.

EK: And finally what can people expect from you when you perform on the 9th of May?
AH: They will see me perform some brand new swing music plus all the old favourites like Bobby Darren, Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. It will be a very exciting night for all of the family and I want everyone to come down and show their support.

For more information and to book tickets please call 0151 709 3789 or visit: www.liverpoolphil.com.

Two minutes with.
First job?
I worked in Next in Liverpool city centre selling clothes. I must have done it for three or foyr yea

Best place to sing?
In the bedroom.

Who is your role model and why?
My dad because he brought seven of us up. He has good morals and is an excellent provider.

If you could have any other job what would it be?
I'd be a joiner just so I could see what it's like working with my hands.

What's parked in your garage?
Loads of rubbish.

Best holiday?
Brazil.

Favourite food and drink?
Ravioli and a pint of Guinness (but not together)

Best piece of advice you've been given?
Just be yourself when you're on stage.

Three most significant achievements in your career so far...
Performing my own material.
Performing at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in London on the 31st of January
Working on the QE2.

One thing you can't live without?
My guitar.

A Day in the life of
I usually get poked in the eye by my young son Shea at 7.30am. I then get up, make him breakfast and have a meeting with my musical director. I then talk to my manager Tony Nunn, visit my family and get ready to perform as and when I'm needed.