Tell us about your new single “It’s You!?”
I first started working on this song in a session with Anna Laverty. I really wanted to create something that felt both vengeful and cathartic, so we started brainstorming a bunch of lyric ideas. That’s when we landed on the common phrase “it’s not you, it’s me”, and thought it would be fun to flip it into “it’s not me, it’s you.” That idea became the foundation of the track. Later, I brought the song to my producer Michael Belsar and drummer Ben Ellingworth, and once we started recording, we had the best time experimenting with different sounds and shaping it into what it is today.
What’s your favourite work at this point in time?
It’s You! is definitely my current favourite at the moment. It was the first really fun, upbeat and energetic song that I ever wrote, and I am really proud of it. But I have to say, some of the unreleased songs that I have been working on recently are also very high up on the list!
How would you describe your sound in food form and why?
I think fairy bread would be how I would describe my sound in food form. It’s sweet, fun, and colourful, something that feels instantly nostalgic. Fairy bread is simple, but it makes people happy, and that’s what I want my music to do too. My songs are playful and lighthearted in some ways, but they also have a sense of comfort and familiarity that you can always come back to.
Tell us a quick, on the road or studio, anecdote.
I made so many amazing memories during the recording process of the EP, but one that really sticks out is when we were working on “Favourite Stranger”. I was in the studio with my producer Michael Belsar and my drummer Ben Ellingworth, and we were experimenting with the instrumental section, trying out a guitar solo. At one point, Michael started playing this absolutely over the top, purposely bad solo, and Ben and I were sitting on the couch just crying with laughter. It was one of those moments that will always remind me how fun and lighthearted making music can be.
What, or who, inspires you?
I’m inspired by the people around me and the experiences I go through with them. A lot of my songs come from real moments in my life, whether that’s friendships, relationships, or just growing up and figuring things out. I also take a lot of inspiration from artists, specifically Taylor Swift. I have been a fan of hers since I was young and have always admired the way she tells stories through her songs. She also has the most incredible work ethic so whenever I get unmotivated, I listen to her and she always inspires me.
Which song do you wish you wrote?
I wish I wrote “Ceilings” by Lizzy McAlpine. It is one of my favourite songs and it’s so beautifully written, it’s intimate and emotional, but still universal enough that everyone can connect with it. The storytelling and simplicity in the lyrics are exactly the kind of qualities I look for when I’m writing my own music, and that song captures them perfectly. I also love the melodies and chords in that song so much!
What’s next for you?
My debut EP “it’s a feeling that i know” is about to come out and I am so excited to finally share it with the world. In celebration of the release of the EP, I am playing some headline shows in Melbourne and Sydney at the end of October, which will be so fun to perform all the songs from the EP. Performing live is one of my favourite things in the world, so the shows are going to be really special.
What’s your scene?
I’d say my scene is definitely in the pop world, being surrounded by other young artists who are passionate, supportive, and love creating together. I feel really lucky to be part of the Australian music community where everyone is so encouraging and collaborative. Outside of that, my scene is just hanging out with friends, enjoying the small things, and taking time to look after myself.
Tilly Fenton’s debut EP ‘it’s a feeling that i know” is out Friday October 10
https://tillyfenton.lnk.to/itsafeelingthatiknow
Tilly will launch her EP with shows in Melbourne and Sydney
Melbourne – Leadbeater Hotel – Saturday October 25 – matinee
Sydney – The Loft – Sunday October 26 – evening
