Emerging pop queen MAXON is an artist from the Mornington Peninsula, currently shaking audiences across the state with her trademark vocal and boundless song-writing talents. MAXON recently announced her new single History, a powerful pop rock belter that reflects on a period of cyclic grieving, it’s out now. To accompany History, MAXON has also released an affecting video; one continuous shot that escapulates all the passion and fire that the song contains and she’ll be celebrating with an exclusive performance at the Paris Cat Jazz Club in Melbourne on November 22. Maxon also took time to attend to a Q&A for us
KEYBOARDS
What was your first keyboard?
I got my first keyboard for live gigs when I was 18 and I only just said goodbye to it – 10 years later! It was a Roland RD something or rather. All I know is it was great and the closest thing I could find to feeling like I was playing a real piano – which is what I learnt on growing up.
What do you use on stage generally?
I’ve just brought a new Yamaha Keyboard that I’m obsessed with. It will be coming everywhere with me when I play solo.
Is it the same for recording?
No. I love using a real piano for recording apart from songs what require us to play around with some midi keyboards and organ sounds.
What’s your latest recording and when will you be back in the studio?
My new single History is out now. I’m really excited about this one. Hoping to get back into the studio early in the new year.
What gigs have you been playing lately?
None. I’m itching to play though! Took a little break to write songs and work on the launch for the new single this month.
Most memorable gig?
I supported Mark Wilkinson at The Thornbury Theatre quite some time ago. Long before I started the MAXON project but it is still one of my favourite performance memories and I’d love to play my own headline show there someday.
Worst stage nightmare?
Forgetting how to play my own song. It’s happened a few times so I have to make sure I’m super prepared now. Sometimes, I just go completely blank and it’s hard to pull yourself together when you’ve immediately gone straight into panic mode.
Album that changed your life?
Alanis Morissette, Jagged Little Pill. No explanation necessary.
What gigs are coming up in the next few months?
My single launch show is on the 22nd of November at Paris Cat Jazz Club in Melbourne. I’m super excited to have a bunch of friends join me on stage for this show. This includes Ruby Gill, Eaglemont, Nussy, Magnets and an a capella group called Plazza who are all incredible artists and I’m so lucky to have them all guest appear for this show.
A keyboard tip for the kids?
Slow down! *giggles* I am actually a singing teacher and also teach a little piano and this is something I am always saying to my students.