Interview: Mark Howard Ignites with Fiery New Single

by the partae
Your new single “My Girl Is On Fire” has a playful, cheeky inspiration. How did that moment of admiration for your wife turn into such a fiery Halloween anthem? 
 
What can I say, a motivated woman can be a terrifying thing indeed.

You’ve cited influences like INXS, Marlon Williams, and Nick Cave. How have these artists shaped your musical journey and your latest single?
 
I think each of these artists have a real sensual quality about their music. I wanted to bring that same vibe to My Girl is on Fire.

“My Girl Is On Fire” has a fun narrative with a femme fatale vibe. Do you often draw from everyday moments to romanticize and craft your songs?
 
Sometimes I do and sometimes I take inspiration from books I read, films or landscapes. I’m led by the music first. The lyrics should feel accurate to the atmosphere of the music.

You’ve won awards at the Edinburgh and Adelaide Fringe Festivals. How do these experiences shape your live performances?
 
Performing at those festivals is such an incredible experience and it really teaches you to respect your audience and the nuances of reading a room.

What was it like taking your audience on a musical journey across Australia, and how does your love for the road influence your songwriting?
 
I’ve always loved to travel and live performance gifts me the opportunity to do it all over the country. Meeting different people, exploring new places and understanding its history will always give you broader scope for songwriting.

Your music has charted on AMRAP. How does it feel knowing your work resonates with both fans and radio audiences alike?
 
AMRAP is an excellent platform for independent artists to get their music heard on the radio. I am extremely grateful to all the stations across the country who have played and continue to play my music.

Halloween is the perfect time for a track like “My Girl Is On Fire.” What do you think it is about this season that makes it such a great backdrop for your music?
 
Life is one big costume party. My Girl is on Fire is a great song to dress up to or indeed undress to.

You have another single and an album coming soon. Can you share a bit about what’s in store for your fans as you prepare for those releases?
 
I’ve got a summer hit loaded in the cannon and ready for release before christmas and the album, Deep Dark Blue is scheduled for release early next year. The new album is much more mature, intense and grander in scale than the previous album. I’m really excited for people to give it a concentrated listen.  

With your family often accompanying you on your musical adventures, how do they inspire or influence your creative process and journey as an artist?

Nothing holds up a mirror to you quite like your family. As an artist you must explore yourself, not just the world around you. You can reach some dark depths and my family always helps me come out the otherside.

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