Julian Velard has worked as a Parisian street sweeper, a waiter and a nursery school teacher. Perhaps then it's surprising that he is now an up-and-coming singer songwriter who has toured with Jamie Callum, Goldfrapp and Kate Nash.
The New Yorker, now based in north London, is about to release his second album, Mr Saturday Night.
Mr Velard, 31, tells People: "I have always been passionate about music. I've played all kinds of ridiculous gigs but over the past three years there has been a natural progression."
He describes his style as pop and says he has been influenced by singers including Billy Joel, Elton John, Harry Nilsson, Tom Waits and Randy Newman.
Mr Velard, who has written for X Factor star Olly Murs among others, was signed to EMI Records for two years before deciding to set up independent label Planeteer Records.
He is now managed by Colin Lester, who also manages Craig David and Travis.
Last week, Mr Velard appeared on ITV's This Morning and on Radio 2 with Jo Wiley.
He says: "I am going to take things as they come but it's my passion to become an artist. Hopefully everything will work out. I am willing to collaborate along the way if need be."
Mr Saturday Night, released on April 4