Singer/songwriter Tahlia Jaye launches her new single, Birdy, at YaYa’s this Sunday, May 18, with support from Jack Stanley and Matt Waring. We took a few minutes to get caught up.
When did you first start playing music?
I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember and studied classically throughout high school, but after six months of studying music at uni, I realized it was killing my passion for it. Music just wasn’t doing it for me anymore so I gave it up. I picked up the guitar a couple of years ago and time off combined with the freedom to write and play without any rules about how it has to be done made it exciting again and now here I am!
What’s your sound? Who are your influences?
My sound is along the lines of vocals that can’t quite shake the classical training fused with indie rock. Think Kate Miller-Heidke meets rolling bass and gritty lead guitar. Being exposed to my Dad’s eclectic taste in music from jazz to folk to old school hip-hop has been a huge influence on my style. I also look up to Katie Noonan and Elena Tonra from Daughter.
Tell us about Birdy.
Birdy is about letting go when someone wants to leave and was inspired by how selfish some people can be in their relationships. Sometimes you have to just step back and do what’s best for the other heart involved.
Where did you record and who with?
I put Birdy down at RADA Studios with Matt Gio. The man is a genius; I took an idea to him that I couldn’t even articulate properly but somehow in amongst all of my rambling, he managed to bring it to life in just two days. I sat with him and his partner, Dan Carroll, absolutely blown away by their extensive knowledge and raw talent. It was a really, really great experience.
What’s up next for you?
I’m off to Europe in two weeks! It will be my first big adventure so I’m hoping to come home feeling even more inspired with some new tunes under the belt. The plan is to finish the EP and then start working on a side project with a couple of boys I’ve been jamming with but who really knows! I’m just taking this year as it comes and enjoying the ride.
