'Mic Check' Interview with Willy Kuo
We sat down with the ever-talented Willy Kuo to get the inside scoop!
How do you stay motivated and inspired to create and develop new work? How do you approach your creative process?
Listening to new songs, and go back to listening to old songs, you’ll always find a new spark in between!
I spent time holding my guitar, and sitting in front of a desk - it all starts there. Then just playing and writing, and more playing, maybe some re-writing, and that’s it, you’ll get a song eventually.
How has the Australian Arts industry changed since you first started, and what changes do you anticipate in the future?
It’s been evolving, I look forward to seeing more indie music artist to show the world that Australian musicians can do more than just country music!
Who would you say is your biggest inspiration?
I’d say my biggest inspirations are John Mayer; Aretha Franklin; Ed Sheeran, who are representing their own unique style of songwriting and performing, which I adore so much, the dynamics and the grooves and the emotions in their songs just epic, let alone the skills, so yes, they are the role models for my music career.
“Perseverance, courage, confidence, they are the 3 essential elements to keep me going, but basically, a guitar, a pen, a paper, and a chair are very important to the process too.”
Can you tell us a bit about your performance background and how you got started in the industry?
Ever since I started writing my originals, and going to some music competitions, and performing gigs, I found I’m in love with the feeling that I can share my music with the audiences, and seeing them resonate or enjoy is the most joyous thing ever.
Always having the strong desire to create good music, and I’d like the world to hear it, sometimes when I’m alone in my room practicing, I’d just imagine I’m performing a huge concert.
What has been your biggest career highlight so far, and why was it significant for you?
The biggest highlight so far must’ve been when I performed my original song in front of 3 thousand people, it was amazing, but not really due to the size of the crowd, it’s more of a feeling about people resonating with my song, the crowd was singing with me!
Also when I finished writing the track, Falling Rain, that song, no doubt has been my proudest work so far!
Can you talk about a project or album that you're currently working on and what we can expect from it?
I’ve never stopped writing original tracks even though life is busy and overwhelming sometimes, so just stay tuned!
Wanna hear more? Find Willy on Soundcloud or get in touch to find out how to book him for your next event!