Interview by Bob Gordon
What’s the best thing about playing festivals?
The palpable anticipation and excitement through the gathering of people from all walks of life wanting to be inspired and lifted by original music. I thrive on the bigger stage with the bigger sound, it gives me permission to let loose and give a big performance!
Do you have a Blues at Bridgetown experience that you’d like to share, either performing or as an audience member?
Unfortunately not but I feel so privileged to not only be experiencing Blues at Bridgetown for the first time but the right time in my career! I am collaborating with some magnificent musicians and writing without boundaries.
Where do you feel you fit in musically along the blues, roots and reggae scale?
I definitely fit into the blues and reggae genres! Creating music that people can be moved by and move to is what is important to me. Vocally, blues suits my raspy tone and playful character, my mother always says that I’m like a diamond with ragged edges!
What have been the highlights of your music career thus far?
Definitely winning a 2024 WAM Song Of The Year (Global Category – The Water), the recognition has consolidated who I am as an artist, first and foremost a songwriter. My journey has enabled me to meet and record with so many different artists and reach out to so many different people, each step in the journey has been a highlight for me.
What have you been mainly focussing on in 2024 and how is it coming along?
Recording new material, releasing an internationally filmed music video and improving my piano skills, all of these goals have exceeded my expectations! I have three new songs to record in December which we have been testing out live and I am currently taking piano lessons from a genius bass player! I believe that taking unconventional pathways leads you to extraordinary places.
What are your plans and hopes for 2025?
To refine my sound and strengthen my message, to possibly consolidate my multi-genre approach into one genre? To win another WAM SOTY! And I definitely want to play at more venues and festivals and be my own keyboard player at some gigs.
What can folks expect from your performances at Blues at Bridgetown?
Something a little bit different; uplifting, funky blues with raw messages. I have a female fronted band consisting of two nurses, a consultant, a teacher’s aide, deputy principal and an optometrist! You’re all in safe hands this year!