With the 2018 Gold Coast Music Awards coming up next month, we took some time out to catch up with Bobby Alu – one of the talented individuals you’ll be able to catch performing as part of the Gold Coast Music Awards Live Lineup on May 3rd! Having been on the road consistently with Xavier Rudd over the last few years has obviously kept Bobby busy, but that hasn’t meant he’s stopped working on new work of his own…
The Gold Coast (and wider QLD) music scene is thriving at the minute – what’s exciting you the most about being part of it?
I feel like there’s been so many people behind the scenes on the Gold Coast that have tried so hard over the years to get the music scene going. Art moves slow and it seems like it’s finally starting to get some traction. It’s exciting for me to see this growth and imagine what it might be like in a decade. Every small victory is important as the Gold Coast is still such a young place.
You’re set to headline the GCMA Live Lineup alongside Electrik Lemonade, Hussy Hicks and Eliza and the Delusionals – no doubt the spotlight will be very much centred on you for the event, how are you feeling about it?
I’m truly honoured to be involved. I was born here, went to school & university here and even played my first ever gig here. It feels extra special to headline such a promising and exciting event for the Gold Coast. I can’t help but be nostalgic and reflect on the journey that I’ve had so far.
Have you noticed any distinct changes in the GC music community recently; how would you describe support from wider industry when it comes to showing love for locals in booking shows on national tours etc?
I’ve noticed there’s more events supporting and showcasing live original music and it seems the public are enjoying it. This is such an important foundation to have with events like Bleach Festival, Seaside Sounds, Miami Marketta & The Night Quarter, who showcase local talent. Now interstate and international bands are coming to perform also, which is an essential step in creating a live original music culture where artists and audiences are nurtured.
Do you have any favourite writers or acts out of GC/QLD who you think are going to have big 2018s?
I’ve been looking through the finalists of the Gold Coast Music Awards and there’s some amazing depth there. Hollow Coves are a new discovery, Rhea Robertson has some tasty tunes and Black Rabbit George is a talented fella. There’s a lot of familiar faces of GC artists I’ve seen over the years and I’m so proud of all of them for putting their hearts on the line. The Hanlon Brothers, Hussy Hicks & Amy Shark (who is absolutely smashing the globe right now!)
Can you tell us what you’re up to at the moment, any new music we can share details of?
I’ve been working on my new record for the past three years and it is so close. It’s an exciting time for me – I spent the last five years touring in Xavier Rudd‘s band and this is the first time in my career I am concentrating on my own music.
Following on from the GCMA’s, where can fans expect to see you popping up next?
After the GCMAs I’m heading around Australia to tour my latest single. After that I will head to Europe to tour their summer. In September Bali & USA before returning home when summer hits – so it’s the last chance to see my show before I jet off. Big year!
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For more information about the Gold Coast Music Awards, visit here.
BOBBY ALU TOUR DATES
Tickets available via www.bobbyalu.com
April 28th | The Rhythm Hut, GOSFORD
April 29th | 5 Church Street, BELLINGEN
May 3rd | GCMA Live, GOLD COAST
May 4th | Moonshine Bar, MANLY
May 5th | Venue 505, SURRY HILLS
May 6th | Transit Bar, CANBERRA
May 10th | Willie Smiths, GROVE
May 11th | The Homestead, HOBART
May 12th | The Wesley Anne, MELBOURNE
May 13th | Sooki Lounge, BELGRAVE
May 18th | Sol Bar, SUNSHINE COAST
May 19th | Black Bear Lodge, BRISBANE
May 20th | Hotel Brunswick, BRUNSWICK HEADS
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