THEAUSSIEWORD.COM catches up with singer/songwriter MACEY.
How and where did it all begin for you? What drew your interest to the music industry?
I can remember sitting on a piano at my cousins at maybe age 5 and just jamming out a song. I think I finished it and turned around to my family and said ‘that was called “Sparrow” haha. My dad was a jazz musician, a teacher and played first bassoon in a couple of orchestras so music was always around the house. I think my love for songwriting and the way it gave me the ability to release complex emotions and experiences really made me want to pursue it.
What motivates or influences you in your quest to make great music?
I go through massive emotional lows quite often, and I usually find myself understanding and interpreting them when I come through the other side. I think that truth, whether it’s an event or just a feeling, has to be there. I don’t feel like the music is great unless it’s coming from a real place.
What are some of your biggest goals you hope to accomplish?
I’ve always said Glastonbury would be the moment for me, or splendour in the grass haha. Apart from that the chance to tour Australia or UK would be up there on the list too.
What can we expect from you in the coming months? Any plans to tour?
I’ll be releasing Side B of the album early 2023, with the first single from it dropping in November. Definitely looking to plan a tour next year!!
Tell us a bit about your latest release and how would you best describe your music?
It’s a little open heart diary of everything I’ve felt and been through over the last 3 years, death, a big break up and just growing pains in general.
Give us an insight into your creative process. What gets you writing songs?
Trauma and PAIN, amongst other things. Na but really it does seem to often come from darkness or hard moments. Experiences that overwhelm and need time for processing usually, sometimes these are good experiences but a lot of the time not haha
Success, what is the secret to it?
What I’ve always heard is make your own success, i guess it’s about finding peace in what you’re doing and enjoying the journey (even though that’s WAY easier said than done sometimes).
What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
Probably making this album!
What is your favourite and least favourite part about this line of work and why?
Favourite is making the music and playing live, least favourite is the pressure and the gatekeeping that the industry as a whole can sometimes present.
Name a few of your favourite Australian artists.
Julia Jacklin, Tame impala, Jade Alice, Gang of Youths, Lime Cordiale
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?
The industry is just as hard as it’s always been, but also more open and accessible for anyone to have a crack. It’s a tough one, but you’ve gotta do it because you love it and know it’s where you want to be, and are prepared for the journey.
How will you continue appealing to the international market?
By being me and continuing to put out my art, my feelings and music into the world
Do you collaborate with others? Who is on your wish-list?
I do a lot! I love toplining and producing and helping in general with other artists for their projects. I also obviously work with producers and writers for my own stuff, the album has a few amazing people involved including Ben Malone, Joe Farris, Joel Jones and Rory Noble.
What advice do you give for other artists wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Stay strong and keep working and creating. Create what you love for you. Also don’t do too many drugs, the journey can be super hard sometimes, you’ll feel like you’ve failed or fallen behind and massive comedowns and malnutrition really don’t help with the mental game.
A message for your fans. How do you best interact and respond with your followers and fans?
Instagram!! I also have a Tiktok which I’m trying to use more….
Any last words?
THANK YOU.