Quirky Melbourne pop starlet Nussy has announced the release of her debut single, Dizzy (see video below) lifted from her forthcoming self-titled EP (out July 18). She’ll be promoting her releases with launch shows at The Workers Club (Melbourne) on July 31 and Pirie And Co Social Club (Adelaide) on August 1. Prior to her tour, Australian Musician grabbed Nussy for a short Q&A
What was your first gig?
To be honest, I can’t pinpoint exactly when my first gig was. I started playing paying gigs when I was 16 year old – I used to play solo piano and vocal gigs at corporate functions, parties and weddings. The first gig I had playing my original work was in 2008 at Veludo on Acland Street, St. Kilda.
What microphone do you use on stage generally?
I generally use a Shure SM58 when I play. I’m notorious for losing my microphone at gigs so I think I’m on to about my fifth one in about as many years but it’s such a great staple microphone for singers, I can’t really go past it. If I can get my hands on a Shure Beta 58 for a gig though, I can’t pass it up, especially the wireless!
Is it the same for recording?
For this particular EP I recorded my vocals with a Rode NTK.
What’s your latest recording and when will you be back in the studio?
My latest recording is my debut EP – ‘Nussy’. I can’t give away too much but I can say that I am going back into the studio to record some more new tracks before the end of this year!
What gigs have you been playing lately?
I’ve been playing mainly acoustic gigs lately as I’ve been focussing on putting together a new band for the release of my EP. I play quite regularly at Hotel Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula – it’s one of my favourite places to play!
Most memorable gig?
In February 2013 I debuted a show which I wrote and arranged specifically for Adelaide Fringe called ‘Lost For Words’. The show is a two-hour long work in two acts performed by myself and an eleven-piece backing band and showcases original works, alongside popular works from well-known artists such as Florence and the Machine, Bon Iver, John Mayer and Coldplay. We performed the show at Adelaide’s prestigious Convention Centre to a 300-strong audience and it was just the most magical experience I’ve ever had.
Worst stage nightmare?
Forgetting the lyrics to my own songs! I am notoriously forgetful and constantly panic about forgetting my lyrics!
Album that changed your life?
‘A Rush Of Blood To The Head’ by Coldplay. I remember being on a family holiday when I was 15, driving through Kakadu National Park and playing that album on repeat in the car. Chris Martin just has a way of delivering a lyric that really resounded with me and being a pianist as well, I was really able to connect with this album musically. I had always known that I wanted to pursue a career in music but something about that album really brought that notion home for me.
What gigs are coming up in the next few months?
I’ve just put together a new band to play some live shows in support of my EP release which is so exciting. I will be playing at The Workers Club in Melbourne on July 31 and at Pirie & Co. Social Club in Adelaide on August 1.
A vocal tip for the kids?
Practice and gig as much as you possibly can! Your vocal folds are muscles – the more you use them, the stronger and more resilient they will become. A few years ago, I used to feel vocally fatigued after a couple of sets. These days I am playing four/five/six hour gigs sometimes and it’s so much easier!