Inspired by legends like Stevie Wonder and Bon Jovi, as well as contemporary artists such as Beyoncé and RAYE, vocalist and songwriter Jamie offers a powerful fusion of past and present. Catch her at Blues on Broadbeach come May 15 to 18.
When did you first start making music? And how long have you been in the music industry for?
I first began making music at the age of 11, co-writing and performing in small primary school bands. I immediately knew that I wanted to pursue music, and it all went up from there! I have been in the music industry ever since – this year will be my ninth.
What did you expect the Gold Coast music industry to be like before you became part of it? Has it met your expectations?
Because I’ve been in this industry since a young age, I had a lot of support around me from friends and family. I definitely still have this support, but I didn’t expect it to be this tricky to be heard and seen by industry professionals. I am so grateful to the team at Blues on Broadbeach for taking a chance on me, and I am excited to use this opportunity to share my music with as many people as I can.
What is your ultimate goal as a musician?
I have always had big dreams. My ultimate goal is to tour the world performing my original music. I love writing, creating and collaborating and would love to expand my network nationally, and eventually globally. I’m very passionate about supporting Aussie music and would love to see more Aussie representation in the industry globally, so I hope that one day I will have a big enough platform to do this.
What has been your biggest learning to date?
If you support other musicians, support will come to you! And it’s important to take time for yourself away from making music in order to maintain a healthy mental state. As much as social media is a great platform for musicians to get heard, sometimes it can be overwhelming, causing you to doubt yourself and overthink.
What has been the biggest peak of your career so far? And how about the ‘pit’?
I think the biggest peak is being accepted to perform at Blues on Broadbeach. I haven’t had an opportunity this big before, so I am very excited to play for you, Gold Coast! I haven’t really had too many low points other than learning how detrimental social media can be to my wellbeing, so I try my best to balance how much I use it.
Do you think the Gold Coast is a good place for young or up and coming musicians?
I think it is a great place for up-and-coming musicians, but I you have to take advantage of every opportunity – band competitions, open mic nights, etc. You also have to be willing to travel to places like Brisbane and Sydney and just put yourself out there a bit more. I like that it’s a small community and everyone is very supportive.
What would you change or improve about our local music scene?
The majority of radio stations are playing international music, and we’re lacking representation of up-and-coming Aussie acts. I think there needs to be more radio stations that are just for Aussie music. I would love to see more booking agencies and venues putting together lineups of up-and-coming musos – I’ve found it difficult to get a reply back from most venues and agencies.
What kinds of opportunities are here for local musicians? Are there enough?
As I mentioned, there are great opportunities like band competitions, open mic nights and jam sessions which are great events for networking. However, I definitely think there could be more opportunities to incentivise the youth to pursue their passion for music – more band nights at local venues and more funding from the government to allow festivals to continue. Putting on great events is crucial to the local music scene.
In your experience, what do you think it takes to ‘make it’?
A really strong brand. I am currently still learning about branding, but I am in the process of building a brand that people can hopefully relate to! You have to be passionate about your craft. I have been told ‘no’ a lot of times but if you’re passionate, you have the ability to keep going – it makes the few ‘yes’s’ worth it! Finally, personable and vulnerable on social media. I have learnt that people love to hear your stories and see your authentic self, because it gives them someone to relate to!
