Interview with

NATALIE PEARSON

Q&A

Interviewer – Esther Triffitt

Natalie Pearson is an upcoming Australian pop-country artist, gaining attention for her emotive dynamic vocals, and girl-next-door charisma. Fun, easy-going and ambitious, Natalie’s warm personality will make you feel like you’ve known her forever. Here Esther Triffitt asks Natalie a few questions.

How did the concept for your album ‘Long Time Coming’ come about?

I had a collection of songs I had been working on over a few years, and I had done a lot of growing up in that time. “Long Time Coming” was the recognition of FIINNNALLYY releasing them into the world and closing off that chapter of my life ready to start a new one.

What is your favourite song to perform off the most recent album and why?

I love performing Beautiful Imperfection and Mr Wrong the most. Beautiful Imperfection is full of vulnerability , and Mr Wrong is on the other end of the spectrum: strong and confident.

Who are your biggest musical influencers for your writing?

I listened to a lot of Cam, Taylor, Keith and Carrie during the writing process. I think it definitely set the tone for inspiration.

Had you written many songs that didn’t make it onto the album?

Of course – there are plenty of songs that will never ever (ever) see the light of day! Haha

Was country music the main genre you were surrounded by when you were growing up?

I grew up listening to a range of genres: the first album I owned was Kylie Minogue on tape, and I remember my first CD was Celine Dion. My parents listened to a lot of mo-town, Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson. In my teens I fell in love with Shania Twain, Faith Hill and Leanne Rimes, and when I started gigging in bands I was singing a lot of pop-rock and pub classics. I think all of these genres have probably shaped my appreciation of all kinds of music.

What are you most looking forward to in the coming year?

I’m really looking forward to a few amazing support opportunities coming up! Right before we start the new year, I’ll be opening for Travis Collins on his End of Year Boat Party out of Brisbane with Liam Brew and Brook Chivell.
Mid-Jan Brook and I will also be supporting at Matt Cornell’s boat party out of Sydney. And then Tamworth Country Music Festival will be huge! I have nine shows over the 10 days. And of course, writing and recording new material.

The single ‘Mr Wrong’ gives an edgier sound compared to the rest of the album, how important to you is incorporating other genres within your music?

Mr Wrong is definitely the confident Nat coming out. The whole album has been a story of life lessons, and Mr Wrong is the realisation of self worth. I don’t intentionally try to incorporate other flavours, but the message needed to be sassy and strong.

Is the pop, contemporary-inspired country what we can expect to hear more of?

Yeah, I love the contemporary pop-country sound and it definitely feels most natural for me.

What inspired you to pursue your music career?

I don’t think there’s ever been a time in my life that I haven’t wanted to pursue music. I just love it.

And if you weren’t a musician, what do you think you would be doing?

That’s such a hard question! I love social media and marketing, so maybe something along those lines.

What has been your biggest challenge as a musician, and has overcoming it put a new perspective on writing and creating your musical identity?

The biggest challenge by far is trusting the universe. I think everyone can probably relate to those moments of “What am I doing? Am I doing the right thing? Is this all going to work out?” Allowing that vulnerability to sometimes creep in can be a blessing and a curse. Some of the best songs come from the lowest moments, but staying motivated when times are tough is a challenge.