Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?
I’m currently living in Wollongong, just south of Sydney where the music scene is small, but very supportive of their local talent.
How did you first start playing music?
My parents have always said that I could sing before I could talk. I was self-taught up until the age of 10/11, where it was my Kindergarten teacher, who is unfortunately no longer with us, said to me that I’d be stupid if I didn’t pursue a career in music. To this day, I’m forever grateful for her love, guidance and support to get me to where I am today.
Your track ‘Love on Your Side’ debuted at number one on the iTunes Electronic Album Charts, huge!! What do you attribute to this tracks massive success?
While writing this track, I felt like I was being honest, real and true with myself as an artist. It is my most personal to date. I wrote this song not long after my Aunty passed away from a long battle with cancer. She was one of my biggest supporters and became my inspiration for writing this song. I feel that it is something that everyone can relate to.
Where and when did you record?
I wrote this song at Kings Cross Music in Sydney in January 2016.
What influenced the sound and songwriting for this track?
As I mentioned, my Aunty was my inspiration whilst writing the track. As for the sound, I wanted it to be nostalgic, celebrating the life of the woman that she was and the effect that she had on so many people that loved her.
How do you usually go about writing music?
I like to start with a chord progression, then play around with a melody line throwing in a few words here and there to help develop the concept of what I am going to write about and how it makes me feel.
You recently worked with DJ Dan Murphy and Ruff Loaderz, how did this collaboration come about and how was the experience?
I met DJ Dan Murphy on the set of “All Together Now” – the new hit TV Show on Channel 7 – where I literally turned around and asked him if he would be interested in doing a remix of my song; he straight up said yes as he was a fan of the original track.
I was introduced to Ruff Loaderz through my record label, Booshu Records. I remember hearing their version for the very first time and burst into tears, because it was the first remix I had heard since recording the original. The way that they were able give the song new life and vitality showed me what this song could really be.
What did you find most challenging and rewarding about working with these Dan and Ruff?
There were no challenges whatsoever working with any of these artists. They are the real deal. They put in the time and effort and produce some really amazing stuff. I had no changes that I wanted done after the first listen of both versions. The most rewarding part was listening to the final product they had produced. Two different pieces capturing the same essence in the song.
Please tell us how you became a judge and TV personality for the new show ‘All Together Now’?
I saw that they were advertising for singers for an upcoming TV show and I thought I’d give it a go as I’m a strong believer in taking every opportunity given to you. I had sent in an online application and video and heard nothing for a number of weeks. Then received a phone call from one of the main producers from the show saying that they weren’t interested in me as a contestant but as a judge due to my credentials and what I have accomplished and who I have worked with. They invited me to do a screen test – one thing led to another and next thing I know I am on a 6 storey high TV set judging alongside some of Australia’s most well renowned music professionals.
What do you enjoy most about this role?
I love getting to hear what Australia has to offer. I have also extremely enjoyed getting to know and work with 99 other music professionals and legends of the industry.
What have you learned through the experience?
Never give up. Be persistent. Take every opportunity that is presented to you and your time will come. Every knock back will help you learn, motivate you and lead you to success.
What do you have planned for the remainder of 2018 going into 2019?
I am currently working on new material as well as a number of Christmas gigs to finish the year off. For 2019 I have a few things up my sleeve so watch this space.
What do you like to do away from music?
I like to spend time with my partner, Michael, hopping in the car and just driving finding an adventure with no destination in mind. All while singing our hearts out Carpool Karaoke style..
Who are you listening to at the moment?
I’m loving the ‘A Star is Born’ soundtrack and also Robyn’s new album ‘Honey’. Cher’s ABBA cover album ‘Dancing Queen’ is my guilty pleasure at the moment too.
Favourite food and place to hangout?
Never really had a favourite food, but I am quite partial to a Macca’s nugget in Big Mac sauce. I’ll pretty much hangout anywhere with my friends, as long as it’s fun!
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