Project Description
Interview with
BRITTANY-ELISE
Interviewer – Vicky Hebbs
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A 2018 graduate of the Senior Australian Academy of Country Music Brittany-Elise has performed in many venues around Australia and internationally. She has worked with artists such as Lee Kernaghan, Kevin Bennett & Amber Lawrence, & won numerous prestigious awards.
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Have you always been interested in songwriting and being a musician? When did it become a serious concern?
I have been interested in music for all of my life. At the age of 7, I took to the stage instead of just performing to family and friends at house concerts. It was here that I won my first encouragement award in the juvenile section. I have followed my passion of music ever since, further adding guitar, piano and violin at the age of 9 and songwriting at 12.
What music did you listen to growing up? Has the music of your childhood significantly impacted your music or career?
Music has been a massive part of my childhood with the likes of Slim Dusty, Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Dixie Chicks, Melinda Schneider and Lee Kernaghan always playing in the car. As well as many local musicians supporting and playing around me. Later additional influences include Carrie Underwood, Graeme Connors, The McClymonts and Catherine Britt who have really influenced me as a songwriter and performer.
How would you describe your sound for anyone who has not yet listened to your music?
It has often been said that my sound is a powerhouse voice reflecting classic country/country pop with rock influences.
You have just released your debut album Something More. Can you share the origins or inspiration of the album?
My debut album is the story of my journey and finding my “Something More”, following my passion with music. It’s about surrounding yourself with the people that make everyday worthwhile and help you make it through “Another Day”. For me, the students who I teach in the Education Department, colleagues I work with, musicians I’ve met along the way and incredible family support I’ve had, influenced this. In particular the influences from my grandmother Dorothy May, growing up, the love and support from my family when moving out of home, going to university and finding my feet, as well as experiences with honesty and relationships.
Which tracks would you call “signature” pieces for you?
Each song represents a different experience on my music journey and was written for a particular reason. However Another Day, Something More and Pit Stop really capture my sound.
What is your favourite track on the album and why?
All of the songs on my album define a different experience or influence in my life. However, Dorothy May is one of my favourites and most personal stories from the album. It took 8 years of drafting to find the lyrics that really captured the words to describe the experiences and memories in my grandmothers house growing up. It’s hard to lose a loved one, let alone if they are your best friend.
What inspired you to write your debut single, ‘Another Day’?
Another Day was inspired by the supportive people I have at my work. Although sometimes it is hard to get out of bed, deal with the traffic and you find yourself making a coffee to get through, if you surround yourself with incredible people, they will find a way to make you smile and make the tough days worthwhile. I’m lucky enough to work as a teacher and I love going to see both my students and colleagues everyday.
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What was it like to play the Tamworth Country Music Festival recently?
2019 was my 10th Tamworth Country Music Festival and it is my favourite time of the year. It is always incredible to perform in front of and alongside of some of the top artists in the music business, as well as catch up with artists and fans who have followed your journey throughout the year. I love seeing the growth in other artists over the years.
Do you have any thoughts on the Australian country music scene?
The Australian Country Music scene has created and continues to create so many opportunities for up and coming artists – in songwriting, as performers and in the business field. It is a defined sense of community from the artists, to the venues, radio announcers and fans.
Which music artists are you listening to or inspired by at the moment?
There is such a great mix of country music out at the moment. Artists that I’m currently listening to include but is not limited to: Carrie Underwood, Catherine Britt, Morgan Evans and High Valley.
What are your plans for 2019? Will you be touring following the release of your album?
2019 has been such an incredible start already with Nashville Tennessee, the Tamworth Country Music Festival, the release of my #2 debut album ‘Something More’, as well as a sold out live album launch. I’m looking forward to the busy schedule ahead playing at private functions, gigs and festivals around the country, as well as getting out to those towns and cities that have supported my music.
If you could pick absolutely anyone to bring on tour with you, whom would you pick and why? (Dead or Alive)
Elvis Presley because he’s an incredible performer, songwriter and inspiration to all artists, as well as really followed his own sound.
Do you have any longer-term goals or aspirations for your music career?
My long term aspirations are to keep working in the music business, continue to write and produce albums, and one day win a golden guitar.
Finally, this is a paragraph dedicated to some quick discovery. Really corny, but for the fans, can you tell me your favorite album, artist, movie, place, drink, meal and person (living or dead) and some brief reasons why? Answer some or all please?
Album – Storyteller by Carrie Underwood, Dear Life by High Valley or Things That We Drink To Morgan Evans as they are incredible artists, performers and storytellers.
Artist – Carrie Underwood and Catherine Britt have been my favourite artists and biggest influences as a female, country singer.
Movie – Notebook and P.S. I Love You
Place – Anywhere near the water (beach)
Drink – Chocolate milkshake
Meal – Homemade spaghetti bolognese or lasagne with garlic bread.
Person – My mum is my biggest influence. She has been the rock of our family growing up and never missed an event or moment even when distance is involved.
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Check out BRITTANY-ELISE below
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