Globally travelled singer-songwriter Lucy Gallant caught up with Australian Musician’s Greg Phillips to discuss her upcoming single “Bad Boy”, due for release on November 7, and her creative journey as an entirely independent artist.
MORE ABOUT LUCY GALLANT AND THE NEW SINGLE ‘BAD BOY’
Gallant reflected on her diverse musical influences, citing Joni Mitchell, Erykah Badu, Tori Amos, Lana Del Rey, and Bob Marley among many others, noting that her extensive travels have exposed her to a rich mix of Latin, Caribbean, and world music. Though her parents weren’t musicians, her father’s taste in artists like Leonard Cohen and The Doors helped shape her musical foundations.
Her first foray into music began unconventionally, with a hand drum before she taught herself guitar as a teenager. A self-taught multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, Gallant described her early creative spark as being born from intuition and emotion rather than imitation, often writing songs spontaneously without formal musical exposure.
Discussing “Bad Boy”, Gallant explained the track was inspired while busking in Byron Bay, feeling empowered and free. The song, she said, is about embracing one’s “wild side,” breaking rules, and finding someone who matches that energy. Though its title might suggest rebellion, the deeper message celebrates self-empowerment and authenticity, “a woman in her power can walk naked if she likes,” she said, clarifying that the lyric is metaphorical for confidence and truth.
Produced by Josh Beattie, “Bad Boy” continues Gallant’s evolution toward a cinematic, soulful sound with trip-hop undertones and lush instrumentation, including slide guitar and strings. She hopes this more spacious production allows her lyrics and voice to take centre stage.
Her songwriting process remains instinctive and emotion-driven, “a feeling that channels through me,” she explained, often sparked during moments of strong emotion or while jamming with others. Once she captures a melody or lyric, she sends her demos to Beattie to expand into full arrangements.
Gallant will debut “Bad Boy” live at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, performing it a day before its official release.
The conversation also touched on her previous single, “F.U.”, written in response to frustration with industry manipulation and broken promises, particularly the challenges faced by women navigating the music business.
Despite being fully independent, Gallant has maintained a relentless global touring schedule, performing across New Zealand, the UK, Europe, and Australia. She credits her success to her community-driven approach, using social media to connect directly with fans who often help her book gigs or even host her on the road. She shared moving stories from her European tour, including the generosity of fans who offered her rides, accommodation, and emotional support after her car broke down in Germany, moments that reaffirmed her belief in the kindness of strangers and the “magic” of life on the road.
Gallant has performed at major events such as Bluesfest and Glastonbury, as well as intimate house concerts, but said her best performances come when there’s genuine connection with the audience, “five people really listening can be just as powerful as 100,000.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Gallant plans to continue releasing new singles and is likely to work toward a full-length album. Her upcoming songs will continue in the poetic, cinematic vein established by “Bad Boy.” She will also return to touring in Europe, New Zealand, and Australia.
Her long-term vision goes beyond personal success. Gallant sees her music as a healing and connective force, aiming to uplift and unite listeners. Her forthcoming project, It Starts with One, invites fans worldwide to contribute their voices to a community track built around the message that “one person can change the world.”
For Gallant, every song, show, and collaboration serves that greater purpose: empowering others to live freely, authentically, and with heart.
Lucy Gallant’s “Bad Boy” is out November 7.
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