Tell us a bit about who you are and what kind of creative work you make
I'm a modern Country singer-songwriter, guitarist and fiddle player and I'm incredibly passionate about writing original music that connects with people.
Music has always been a part of my life. I grew up in Willunga, a small town about an hour south of Adelaide, where my parents brought me up on Country Music Festivals and jam nights.
One of the things I'm most interested in is live looping (kind of like Ed Sheeran does) for my performances. I just love how creative you can be with this technology. I can lay down a guitar, bass and drum track using my guitar and then sing and play along with my violin.
Whereabouts do you look for creative ideas? Who or what inspires you?
I'm especially inspired by female power house singer/songwriters such as Miranda Lambert, Taylor Swift, Shania Twain and in Australian Artists such as Amber Lawrence and Amy Shark. I particularly love lyrics that really connect with the listener and are raw and authentic with a pinch of attitude and wit.
What's the most challenging part of working as an artist / creative?
One of the most challenging parts of being an artist is the belief that you can't make a living out of music, but you absolutely can! I have now been a full time musician since 2019 and my business survived the pandemic. It can be incredibly difficult, hard work, long and late hours but it's honestly so rewarding and I wouldn't have it any other way.
What is a creative project that you've worked on that you're really proud of? Why?
On the 16 June this year I released my debut album, 'Hidden Spirit,' which was produced by ARIA award winning producer, Govinda Doyle.
The process from start to finish as an independent artist was such an incredible life lesson, I had to learn to be very patient (especially with so many setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic). It took around six years in total, to write the songs, record and release. I'm so proud of all the music on the album because it's all come from my heart. There is an underlying theme of strength through adversity and empowerment in every song throughout the album.
A lot of blood, sweat and tears went into the making of it, so you can imagine my surprise and joy when it reached #2 on the ARIA Australian Country Music Album Charts! This has just made me so excited to get back into the recording studio and keep creating new music.
Do you have any top tips for emerging artists and creatives just starting out?
Never stop being curious and playful in your music. Create and have fun doing it!
You can have a career in music! It's just going to be a marathon, not a race. Keep chipping away at it day by day.
