Join me for this very special interview with the extremely talented Caleb McGinn.
What can you tell us Aussies about you? How and where did it all begin?Well, I am a singer / songwriter / recording artist from Kansas in the United States and have a sound similar to John Mayer, Matt Nathanson, and Jack Johnson. I started writing music a few years ago after I missed my flight home from London, England. Trying to make the most of it though, I bought a guitar, wrote a few songs, and even played at some London pubs! Funny story about that too, when I wasn’t writing and playing guitar over there, I somehow always managed to find Australians to go out and party with at night. You guys sure know how to have a good time!!
What first got you interested in music?
My mom played guitar when I was younger, but I’ve always wanted to be a performer since I was little. Never really thought it would turn into a reality though!
Who inspires or influences your quest to make great music?
The people that I have worked with in music have really inspired me…whether it be other artists, producers, or just friends! As far as musical influences, I like a pretty wide variety of music and I think that shows in the music that I have made.
Are there any tours or gigs planned for the future?
Right now, I’m planning a big fall tour that will mostly be in the United States, but I’m hoping to be able to tour in Australia sometime in 2013.
What are some of the biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?
I’d love to be able to tour around the world and play shows in as many countries as possible. Aside from that, it would be pretty awesome to have a song go number one at some point in my career! The possibilities are really limitless though, so who knows!
What can fans expect from you in the coming months?
I’m hoping to release more youtube videos and start recording an EP so that’s what I’ll mostly be focusing on.
Success, what is the secret to success and what has been your biggest career highlight so far?I think the biggest thing for me has just been working hard and keeping my sight set on what I want to accomplish. Sometimes it isn’t always the most talented people that do well, it’s the ones that work the hardest!
Tell us a bit about your first EP or album?
I recorded my first fully-produced EP this past summer and got to work with a member of The Fray on it. I’m really happy with how it turned out and it has given me attention from fans across the world. A couple of the songs have even placed first in major songwriting competitions!
Do you have any exciting projects in the works?
I’m in the process of making a music video and I’m also in a contest at www.artistsignal.com/calebmcginn . So if you want to help out and vote for me on there, that would be awesome!! (I’d be able to come play in Australia sooner if I won!)
The industry is huge, where do you see yourself a few years from now?
In a couple of years, I hope to continue to write, record, and perform new music, but I also hope to help other up and coming artists with their careers in various ways.
Name a few of your favourite Aussie artists.
Missy Higgins, Keith Urban, and Tommy Emmanuel
The shape of the music industry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of social media, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what it means to you in getting your records out into the public eye?
The music industry is crazy, but now is as good of time as ever to be able to get your music out to people through the internet. In the end, the ultimate test will still be quality though. If you can make good music that people can relate to, then you will do well as an artist!
Thanks for the interview! What can you leave fans with here on TheAussieWord blog today?
I really hope to be able to inspire people to do what they love each day and follow their dreams. Life is way to short to do things that don’t make us happy. That being said, I think we are the happiest when we can help others or do something to brighten someone else’s day. If everyone that reads this does that today, then I have succeeded! (Oh, and if you vote for me on my contest too…haha) : )
Website: http://www.calebmcginn.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/calebmcginnmusic
Twitter: @calebmmusic