Carl De Villa for 'Mic Check' Interview

We sit down with singer-songwriter Carl to discuss their creative practice and musical journey.

Can you tell us a bit about your performance background and how you got started in the industry?

I am a singer songwriter and also known as a tribute singer honouring famous artists like Prince, Queen, Bruno Mars, and James Brown. I'm also a lead singer for live music productions for Daft Punk Orchestral Rendition, Studio 54, 70s Glam Rock, and 80s Funk.

How do you approach your creative process, from ideation to completion?

I begin by making sure I am comfortable with myself and what I wear represents me being me. Then I visualise scenarios on how to say, what to say, how to react in unfamiliar territories, and, how to portray and sing the songs - method acting.

How do you balance the creative and business sides of the performance industry, and what strategies have worked best for you?

This is the only moment where people see two sides of me where I'm so different on stage and when people speak with me in relation to future events, I put my business hat on and respond professionally.

It's always good to direct them to the agency to protect not just myself but also the the company who actually booked me for that event. And if they want to support me as a singer, I give my website so they can follow and listen to my original songs.

What has been your biggest career highlight so far, and why was it significant for you?

One of my original songs, 'Just Another Love Song,' was used for this year's Queer Screen Mardi Gras Film Festival (World Pride 2023) as an anthem. It was such a great honour working with Queer Screen and my song was listened and watched (movie trailer background) across cinemas around Sydney with over 160 queer movies.

How do you stay motivated and inspired to create and develop new work?

My friends say I'm very talkative and when I don't talk or when I'm alone, that's the time where I can think of sounds in my head. I then put lyrics to that sound and pick a theme or genre that resonates to the sound.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to break out?

Never give up on your dreams and challenges are there for a reason. If people bring you down, use that energy and create music. Get support from friends and family and keep those positive aura around you. They help me so much in this industry. Wake up and live your dreams and follow your passion.

How has the Australian Arts industry changed since you first started, and what changes do you anticipate in the future?

I started as a tribute singer paying homage to famous artists like Prince, Queen, and James Brown, to name a few. But when I entered a new world of original music, I've asked some friends on where to start and also researched on websites that provide articles to new independent artists. Australian Independent Record Labels Association is one of the industries that led me to where I am now.

Can you tell us about a collaboration or project that you've worked on that was particularly memorable or influential?

When I did my song, 'Just Another Love Song,' a secret birthday present for my partner, I had an argument with him coz he was wondering why he wasn't involved in the process. My partner has always been included in my music career. The best white lie I said was, "The song was the recording studio's project and therefore I don't have the control." On his birthday party surprise, he was shocked on how I kept everything a secret and he's got to listen to the birthday song surprise which was also heard by his friends and family. He was overwhelmed and very happy with the result.

Can you talk about a project or album that you're currently working on and what we can expect from it?

I'm working on releasing another song that would inspire people to get up and dance to feel the groove of the music. I can't wait to release it by the end of June.

Keen to hear more? Find Carl on Spotify or get in touch to find out how to book them for your next event!