First Year On Earth chat with theaussieword.com for a special interview.
Give us an introduction. How did it all begin? What had you first interested in music?
To begin with I just followed my brothers tastes. His CD collection was dominated by Nirvana, pearl jam and green day at the time. Listening wasn’t enough for me so Dad got me started on piano. I loved it!
What motivates or influences you in your quest to make great music?
I’m always trying to write better songs. Great songwriting is what drew me into music.
When created well, music has a way of expressing things we can’t in regular life. The quest to write great songs is what motivates me everyday.
What are your biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?
I’d love to get our music as far as possible. There’s no greater feeling then sharing something you’ve written. If we can reach a large audience I’d be very happy.
What can we expect from you in the coming months? Any plans to tour?
We’re about to hit the studio to record our first full length album! Hopefully s little tour after that. Some shows in Australia I’m hoping.
Tell us a bit about your latest album and how would you best describe your music?
We released our debut debut self titled EP in June. The music is rootsy folky pop. The sound spans from my love of songwriting and the other guys backgrounds in jazz and country music.
Success, what is the secret to it?
Love what you do. Do it for the right reasons and don’t take yourself too seriously.
What has been your biggest career highlight?
Being invited to perform at the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville. I’ve always dreamt of playing there. When we arrived for sound check there was already a line around the block. Half the crowd had likely never heard of us, the Bluebird’s reputation for great music brought them there. Amazing place to play. It was a high point for me as a songwriter.
Which stars of the music industry do you find inspiring?
There are so many. Justin Timberlake comes to mind. In today’s music industry real pop stars are very rare. His talent is unbelievable. He deserves all his success.
John Mayer’s songwriting is what made me want a career in music. His music has always inspired me.
Any new projects in the pipeline?Just this new album. No name yet
The music industry is huge, where do you see yourself a few years from now?
Hopefully still writing and recording original music. Hopefully to a bigger audience 🙂
Name a few of your favourite Aussie artists.
I haven’t lived in Australia for almost 4 years so I’m a little out of touch. When I was going through uni I always loved Lior, he’s amazing. Paul Kelly and Josh Pyke also come to mind. Vance Joy is killing it right now. I love his stuff. In fact I’d say I listen to his album more then anything at the moment.
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 does it mean to you in getting your records out into the public eye?
It’s hard to get noticed, but then again it’s always been that way. I guess there are more artists these days. I try not to worry about it. I still believe if I write and record a good enough album it’ll find an audience. If you don’t think that way it’s easy to become jaded and uninspired. Anytime I feel like the industry is against me I try to remember what I love about music. I never stared writing and performing to become a pop star. Don’t get me wrong, It would be nice, but I hope I never let my own success (or lack of) shape what I love about great songwriting.
Thanks for the interview! What final message do you have for us.
Thanks for having me!