theaussieword.com catches up with artist Mitch King.
Tell us how it all started. What had you first interested in music?
It was in high school. I had a mate who played the guitar and I was extremely captivated listening to him. This struck a passion in me that wouldn’t go away. So I learnt to play the acoustic guitar and kept improving more and more, which led to busking in my home town at that time, Tamborine Mountain. The more I played, the more I got hooked. Then before I knew it, I was writing music, singing songs and progressively added the Kick Drum, Harmonica and Tamborine.
What motivates or influences you in your quest to make great music?
Many people motivate me. There is often a facet of inspiration, which I take away with me when I watch most performers. It could be the way they conduct themselves, speak, sing, play, song write etc.
Whilst I strongly focus on playing music, that reaches people and myself on an emotional level,
I’ve also noticed how important it is being present when you perform, and the energy you put out when you play. There are a lot of components which motivate me in making great music, and a lot of components which I’m always working on.
What are your biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?
I don’t have an end goal, but to keep moving forward, reaching out to more people, and continuing this lifestyle…which I love.
A big goal is to have the ability and to play sold out shows around the world.
Success, what is the secret to it?
For me Passion and Love drives success, without those elements, I would be useless.
Commitment is also necessary, and personally that comes from my love and passion for music.
Also the ability to continually learn can be challenging, but successfully learning creates momentum in moving forward and can be one of the most rewarding experiences.
What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
For me it’s hard to compare. I can get the same joy from playing to 20 people as I could to playing to 5000. It’s not always the quantity but the quality of an Audience, which makes a show special and memorable. Two of my highlight shows on the last tour would include (Porch Sessions 2016 – Adelaide) and (Closing Concert – Tamworth Country Music Festival 2016). Porch Sessions was beautiful and intimate, & Tamworth was massive and amazing, and the contrast and spontaneity of shows, is what keeps it interesting for me.
Which stars of the music industry do you find inspiring?
Kim Churchill, Eddie Boyd & the Phatapillers, Grizzlee Train, John Butler.
The music industry is huge, where do you see yourself a few years from now?
I’m hoping that I will be playing at some major festivals in various parts of the world and sell out shows in Australia and beyond.
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?
Social Media is a definite advantage for independent artists. It’s nice to connect directly with fans and keep them up to date, with what’s happening.
There is so much, in which makes up the music industry, and there are many roads and an overwhelming amount of information out there. It’s feels impossible to know everything about the industry, but being aware and update, helps!
Name a few of your favourite Aussie artists.
Kim Churchill, Eddie Boyd & the Phatapillers, Grizzlee Train, John Butler.
What can we expect from you in the coming months? Any plans to tour?
I’ve been working on my latest EP “Southerly Change” and expecting its release late 2016.
To promote this release I’ll be heading back on the road starting off in January for the Tamworth Country Music Festival Opening Concert, then down to St Kilda Festival in February just to name a few with many more shows along the way.
Tell us a bit about your latest record, how would you best describe your music?
I’ve just recently termed my music as Australian Folk and Southern Blues.
I’m really excited with the latest EP. It’s a little different to my debut album “A life under the sun”. I’ve brought in new ideas with my sound and am stoked with how it’s all turning out. It’s still in the mixing stages but I’m pretty keen to share my new songs.
Do you have any new projects in the pipeline?
I’m always working on new music…songs sometimes seem to come together when I least expect them.
I’ve already got a few songs lined up for the next record. But as I’m still in the process of finalizing my EP, these songs will have to be put on hold for a little while.
I’m planning to travel internationally and focusing on America next summer, and can’t wait.
Thanks for the interview! What final message do you have for us today?
Believe in yourself and live your dream. Hahaha!! YEW.
Website: mitchkingmusic.com.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mitchkingmusic
You must log in to post a comment.