Stuart Hartley & Onyx Halo

In 2026, after nearly three decades away from songwriting, Merseyside‑born creator Stuart Hartley is stepping back into the music world with a project unlike anything he could have imagined in his early twenties. His new venture, Onyx Halo, is a fully AI‑generated band, but the heart, the stories, and the songs are entirely his.

Between 1990 and 1995, Hartley lived for music. Armed with a home setup and a 4‑track recorder, he wrote relentlessly, capturing raw, unfiltered demos and sending them to A&R departments with the kind of determination only youth and ambition can fuel. But professional recording was financially out of reach, and the industry’s rejections eventually pushed him toward a different path. By 25, he stepped away from songwriting and built a successful career as managing director of a manufacturing company: a future built on grit, stability, and long-term focus. Yet music has a way of waiting for the right moment.

In 2025, Hartley discovered emerging AI music technology and realised he could finally give his early songs the production they always deserved. He uploaded his original 4‑track demos — some nearly 30 years old — and watched them evolve into fully produced, modern tracks that retained the emotional core of the originals. The process didn’t just revive old material; it reignited his creativity. Hartley began writing new songs again, blending the urgency of his early work with the perspective of a life fully lived.

To bring this new chapter to life visually and conceptually, he created Onyx Halo — an AI‑powered band designed to embody the sound, the story, and the evolution of a songwriter returning to his craft. We caught up with him to learn a little more...


Hi, how are you?

Great!

We are so excited about your new album. For those not in the know, what can they expect?

There’s a real mix on there. Some tracks hit hard; others are more reflective, but it all ties together. I hope the listener finds it reflective and enjoyable.

What one song should they listen to first?

I have my own favourites, but music is an art form, and what makes good art depends on the individual. I'd suggest starting with track 1 and go all the way through to track 12. I'm sure you’ll find several you will want to listen to again.

And what is your key ambition?

Just one ambition – to get these songs heard and hopefully enjoyed by as many people as possible.

We want to get to know a little more about your musical taste. Tell us a song that makes you:

Smile: Chuck Berry – My Ding-A-Ling

It just makes me grin every time I hear it. There’s something brilliantly cheeky about it — you can’t quite believe he got away with it, especially for that era. It’s playful, a bit naughty, and the crowd interaction in the recording makes it even better. It feels like everyone’s in on the joke, and that kind of humour never gets old.

Cry: Heavy is The Halo (your own song)

I wrote this about my mum and her dementia, and it hits me every single time I play it. It’s one of those songs that carry real weight — not just musically, but emotionally. It captures something very personal, and I think because of that, it never feels like “just a song". It’s more like reliving those moments, which is why it always brings a tear.

Laugh: Bob Dylan – Rainy Day Women #12 & 35 (Everybody Must Get Stoned)

It sounds like they’re having an absolute blast recording it, and that energy is contagious. It’s loose, chaotic in a good way, and doesn’t take itself too seriously — which is refreshing. You can almost picture the session in the studio, everyone just going with it and enjoying the moment. That sense of fun always makes me laugh.

Feel nostalgic: The Beatles – In My Life

This one goes straight to the heart of nostalgia. It’s reflective without being heavy, and it has that timeless quality where it makes you think about your own life – people, places, and moments. It doesn’t try too hard but somehow says everything. It’s the kind of song that quietly sneaks up on you.

Dance in the kitchen: Elvis Presley – Jailhouse Rock

You just can’t stand still when that comes on. It’s got that raw, infectious energy that makes you want to move, even if you’re just making a cup of tea. It’s fun, upbeat, and a bit rebellious, perfect for a spontaneous kitchen dance.

Sing in the shower
Honestly, whatever song is stuck in my head that day. The shower seems to turn anything into a performance – whether it’s a classic or something completely random. It’s less about the song and more about the moment… and probably sounding better in my own head than I actually do.

Message a friend immediately:

It would have to be something really special – one of those rare tracks that completely stops you in your tracks. I don’t come across those every day, but when I do, it’s the kind of thing you have to share. I just can’t think of a specific one right now.

What was the best gig you have ever been to?

Probably Paul McCartney – he's such an icon, and seeing him live feels like witnessing music history in front of you. I also really enjoyed Paloma Faith; she brings so much personality and energy to the stage, it’s impossible not to get caught up in it.

What is the best show you have ever done?

The best gigs have always been the smaller, more intimate ones. There’s something about that close connection with people that you just don’t get on a big stage. A family party is hard to beat — it's relaxed and supportive, and you know you’re among friends. Plus, you’re pretty safe from getting booed!

What stage have you (or the band!) not performed on, that you dream of?

Playing Wembley Stadium to a full crowd would be incredible. It’s one of those bucket-list venues — not just because of the size but also because of what it represents. Getting there would mean you’ve really achieved something.

Lastly, you can achieve one thing by the end of the year. What is it?

I tend to keep my goals simple and grounded. If I could build a strong following for my music and the band – something real and growing – I'd be genuinely happy. It’s about momentum and connection more than anything else.