I’m an independent Melbourne-based singer, songwriter and recording artist. I played in a number of Melbourne indie bands, including Thirteen at Midnight (not to be confused with a UK band of the same name!), whose members went on to become a well known Melbourne band called Things of Stone and Wood.
I have recently used the extra time available during the Covid lockdown in Melbourne to write and record a bunch of new songs.
I’m pleased to say that my debut solo single ‘Safe from Home’ was picked up by dozens of ‘hottest new hit’ Spotify playlists and received tens of thousands of streams worldwide, and I’ve since released further singles that quite a few people have been listening to (if you’re one of them, thanks!).
Incidentally, I used to also be music journalist, and was Features Editor on national Australian rock music magazine Juke for more than five years, which was lots of fun.
Where are you based?
Melbourne Australia
How long have you been making music?
Since I was a child
What genre would you consider your music to be?
Alternative melodic pop
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
My oldest brother had a guitar and I used to sneak into his room to play it when he wasn’t around. I asked my folks for a guitar for my birthday when I was about seven, and they gave me a freakin’ ukelele! Needless to say, I kept sneaking into my brother’s room!
What are your biggest musical influences?
There are so many, but I remember the first time I listened to Dark Side of the Moon with headphones, I was transfixed. I grew up listening to Australian bands, as well as 80s groups like Dire Straits. These days I love Americana bands like Wilco and Cracker, as well as artists like Jeff Buckley and Nick Cave.
Are you signed to a label or are you an independent artist?
Independent – I distribute with DistroKid, who are the bomb.
What have been the biggest challenges in your music career?
My biggest challenge up until lockdown, was finding time. While the pandemic has been terrible for many, it’s been a blessing to me – as I’ve been able to record and release five of my songs so far, and they’re still coming thick and fast! I find marketing and getting my songs played and heard to be a bit of a challenge, but I’m getting better at it over time.
How many songs or albums have you released to date?
Five as a solo artist
Can you tell us a few things about your latest release?
Opening with the lines “I’m just someone on the spectrum, with a plectrum”, this song combines existential crisis with tongue-in-cheek accusation, while taking a journey through the mixed-up thoughts of an over-thinking pseudo nihilist (possibly a close personal friend of mine). It really exemplifies my need to express my crazy mixed-up thoughts and feelings through music and song.
Any plans for new music or upcoming projects we should know about?
Yes, I have a new single called ‘In Your Eyes’ dropping on November 11. It’s a pure pop song with a slightly sad underbelly – a tale of a man who realises his partner is falling out of love with him. Very melodic with lots of lush harmonies! It’s available for Spotify pre-save through DistroKid https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/byronsmith/in-your-eyes
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