Amanduh is keeping the party going with her second addictive single of 2024, ‘Eye To Eye’, out now. Known for her nostalgic tunes, warm voice, and delicate lyrics, Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Amanduh is definitely worth keeping an eye on. Weaving intricate tales through layers of sound, her songs are perfect for reading into like a story or just snapping along to the beat.
To celebrate the release of ‘Eye To Eye’ Australian Musician sent Amanduh a dozen questions to ponder.
1 What was the spark which lit your flame for music initially?
Really enjoying the song name drop in this one. In all honesty, I grew up watching a lot of musicals and I just became obsessed with singing, like any other annoying little music theatre kid. Calamity Jane and 7 Brides for 7 Brothers are to blame for my love of music.
2 An album or song that had a huge impact on you growing up?
I think anything by Avril Lavigne, I was super obsessed. I had all of her albums, listened to all of her songs and it was just the peak of my childhood; screaming teenage angst songs when in reality I had no experience yet. I think as well, it was very different from music theatre, so it kind of opened me up to pop music.
3 First concert you ever attended?
Not even ashamed, Nickelback.
4 Which other person has had the biggest influence on your music career?
My husband. I know that sounds silly, but he’s always supporting me and challenging me and encouraging me to keep going. In an industry that can be so cut throat, it’s really amazing to have someone unconditionally supportive.
5 What was the main inspiration for your song ‘EYE TO EYE’?
People around me. I see a lot of people my age in and out of relationships and the animosity that comes with the break up. I was really inspired by shows like Gossip Girl, who show the intricacies and complex human relationships after a break up. They don’t always have to be toxic, you can be at peace with the fact that it wasn’t meant to be.
6 In general, what’s the starting point for an Amanduh song?
Lyrics. I am nothing, if not a songwriter. Lyrics always come first and more often than not, they come with a melody already. I’m not sure how I do it, but songs honestly just write themselves.
7 What would be your dream collaboration?
Oh my gosh. Honestly, either HAIM or Maisie Peters.
8 What would you like your music career to look like in 5 years time?
I would love it to be self sustained. What I mean when I say that, is I’d love to be successful enough to pay my mortgage and bills off my music and be able to say goodbye to my day job. I suppose this would look like releasing more music, support gigs, headline gigs and festivals here and there!
9 What would you consider to be the favourite gig you have played so far?
I did a really intimate backyard gig earlier this year and the space I created allowed for such honesty and vulnerability, so as much as I love big shows, this was my favourite because even though it was a much smaller gig, it allowed for connection in my music.
10 If money was no issue, what would an Amanduh concert look like?
I love this. Okay. Free entry, of course. Maybe somewhere outdoors, like Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Food trucks. Family friendly. Massive Line up. Dancing, lots of dancing. 12pm start and 4pm finish so everyone’s home at a reasonable hour. I would have streamers and bubbles and disco balls. it would be incredible.
11 An important life lesson someone gave/told you?
Do it. I know it’s silly and cliche, but honestly it’s the perfect lil tidbit for creatives. Just do it.
12 What’s next for Amanduh?
More music! I’ve been in the studio heaps this year, so next year is the year for singles. I’ve got some slower songs coming everyone’s way, which will be a nice change from my big pop songs, which I’m really excited for.
MORE ABOUT AMANDUH AND ‘EYE TO EYE’
‘Eye To Eye’ seems like it should be a sad song– after all, it’s about the end of the relationship, but as the lyrics weave between sad and raw and hopeful and energetic, it becomes clear that this is a brighter look on the post-breakup haze. The relationship ended simply because it had to end. It’s not a negative thing, it’s just that they don’t see ‘Eye To Eye’. Amanduh herself puts it best:
“It’s a reflection of everything that didn’t align, not for better, not for worse, just is what it is. A lot of break up songs latch onto the idea of really deep sadness, or anger, but I wanted to recall on all the little intricacies that just don’t align when dating and there’s no bad blood when it doesn’t work out. Sometimes things just don’t work out and it’s ok”
The echoing piano, sparkling electronics, and Amanduh’s warm voice combine together for an overwhelmingly positive song for the subject matter. It’s a fun song that would feel at home at a house party, with bright drum machines and electric beats perfect for tapping along to.
‘Eye To Eye’ Single Launch
Thursday, December 5 – The Gaso Upstairs, Naarm (Melbourne) | Tickets
with Georgia Dabbous and Nick Keogh
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