Q: Hey, can you tell us a bit about where you come from, and what made you want to start a career in music?
A: I was born in Wellinton, New Zealand and listening to my big sister play classical piano seemed to trigger something in me from a young age. I felt then, as I still do, that I could somehow “see” the music. Really, there’s never been anything else I wanted to do and now I’ve been a professional musician for all my life.
Q: Did you have any formal training, or are you self-taught?
A: I had piano lessons but what was strange was that I could manage the music theory very easily. I did several exams a year, sometimes passing without any lessons or study. I can’t read music fluently as I don’t keep up the practice. I would say that I’m largely self taught, but am now taking guitar lessons – after being a successful guitarist and writer for many years.
Q: Who were your first and strongest musical influences?
A: My older sister and brother had Beatles records – I devoured them. Still a huge influence. More recently I feel that Peter Gabrial is an inspiring artist.
Q: You have just released your new single, ‘ I Won’t Back Down’. Is there a story behind it?
A: It’s a cover of the Tom Petty/Jeff Lynn song. Unusual for me to cover a song, I’m a prolific writer. But this spoke to me and it was fun to do!
Q: Can we expect a new EP or even an album from you in the near future?
A: My next single is called “Our Freedom” and is out on all platforms on February 17th. It’s a ripper and the video is a fun thing too!
Q: What do you feel are the key elements in your music that should resonate with listeners, and how would you personally describe your sound?
A: Key elements in my music are my voice, the lyrics and my guitar style. I won’t try to describe my musical style except that it’s indie rock, singer/songwriter in nature but can definitely take a few unexpected twists.
Q: Do you feel that your music is giving you back just as much fulfillment as the amount of work you are putting into it, or are you expecting something more?
A: It’s definitely giving me utmost staisfaction. I’m very lucky to be able to produce and create music everyday, it’s my full time job. I’d like to be doing more shows and touring more but hey, I live in a 10 acre permaculture farm with a great recording studio, really couldn’t be more ideal!
Q: Could you describe your creative processes? How do usually start, and go about shaping ideas into a completed song?
A: I dig in, do the work. The secret to great writing is rewriting. I’m never afraid to go back and continue shaping ideas and moments in the music, lyric and performance. I expect the same from artists that I produce in my studio.
Q: What has been the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in your life or music career so far?
A: Growing.
Q: On the contrary, what would you consider a successful, proud or significant point in your life or music career so far?
A: I’ve been able to grow as an artist and as a person.
