theaussieword.com catches up with Australian country artist Natalie Pearson!
Give us an introduction. How did it all begin? What had you first interested in music?
Music began for me when I was about 5 years old. My mum took me to the video store and we hired “Annie” the musical, and I watched it over and over again until I knew every word and I’d sing the songs constantly. I was invited up for a casual karaoke party with some friends from a performing arts school, and belted “Tomorrow”. No-one could believe that a big voice came out of a tiny five year old. My mum was encouraged to put me into singing lessons, and I auditioned for my first musical (Annie of course), and enjoyed every minute. I don’t think there has been a time in my life that I haven’t been immersed in music. I went to a performing arts highschool, and as soon as I was old enough to sing in bars, I began to really cut my teeth in the live band scene. I started writing my own music a few years ago, and have really focused on creating a viable career doing what I love.
What motivates or influences you in your quest to make great music?
There’s such a unique feeling of accomplishment when you create something from nothing. I just love everything about it.
What are your biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?
I hope to create a long lasting successful musical career! Ideally I’d love to be headlining at major festivals, and consistently touring. Wouldn’t mind a few awards under the belt too!
What can we expect from you in the coming months? Any plans to tour?
Absolutely! I’ve just finished an awesome national tour with Brook Chivell, with 24 dates in 2 months from QLD to NSW, VIC and WA. We are about to start planning the next one. I can’t wait! I’ve got a few other shows coming up in the meantime – I’m opening for Travis Collins on his annual boat cruise on 30 Dec in Brisbane, and also opening for Matt Cornell for his cruise on the 13 Jan. After that we’ll be diving into an epic schedule at Tamworth Country Music Festival with 9 shows in 10 days.
Tell us a bit about your latest album and how would you best describe your music?
My latest album, “Long Time Coming” is a collection of songs about really finding myself. I’ve done a lot of growing up over the last few years and the release was really the closing of that door, and looking forward to the next chapter. The latest single, “Mr Wrong” is an edgier sassier, more powerful vibe and it represents the realisation of self worth.
Success, what is the secret to it?
Love what you do!! If you’re passionate about what you do, you’ll always strive to be better. Good things come to those who work!
What has been your biggest career highlight?
This year has been full of highlights!! 12 months ago I was awarded “Best Country” at the MusicOz Australian Independent Music Awards, and I performed for the first time at the Tamworth Country Music Festival and prepped the release of my debut album. It’s been incredibly well received. Perhaps the biggest highlight for me, is when someone loves what they hear enough to buy the album and their continued support and encouragement. The community that surrounds the country music industry is just amazing.
Which stars of the music industry do you find inspiring?
Oh gosh, so many! One soon-to-be-massive star I admire is indie artist Fanny Lumsden – she has created an amazing enterprise and avid fan base touring the country with just her and her husband in a 1970s caravan.
Any new projects in the pipeline?
I’ve recently taken the plunge and moved from Perth WA to the east coast to further the music focus and promote the recent release of the single and music video for “Mr Wrong”. Then it’s on to Tamworth Festival and then releasing more music! You’ll have to stay tuned haha!
The music industry is huge, where do you see yourself a few years from now?
I’m hoping to have more of a known name for myself and be playing the major festivals and touring regularly.
Name a few of your favourite Aussie artists.
Some awesome Aussie artists to check out: Brook Chivell, Casey Barnes, Hayley Jensen, and Matt Cornell.
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?
I think social media is great! It’s a great way to connect with the artists you like, and for the artists to also get to know their fans (and where your fans are!). The streaming era is here and although artists make a lot less money than they used to on music sales as a result, it’s a way for new audiences to find you. If it increases attendance at live shows, then we just might keep the industry alive to keep creating great music.
Thanks for the interview! What final message do you have for us today?
Thanks for having me! Those things you’ve always wanted to do? Just do them! The time is going to pass by anyway.
Catch up with Natalie Pearson online and via social media!
www.facebook.com/NatPearsonMusic
www.instagram.com/NatPearsonMusic
www.twitter.com/NatPearsonMusic
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