Define your genre in five words or less:
Missy Higgins meets The Waifs.
So, someone is walking past as you are playing, they then go get a beer and tell their friend about you… what do they say?
“Man, that chick can play the guitar!”
Do you have any record releases to date? What are they? Where can I get them?
My 2009 studio album called Chest Of Drawers, and my new solo acoustic album, Little Treasures, which I am launching on Sunday April 15! They are available at live shows, jennybiddle.com, iTunes, and bandcamp.
When are you releasing your album?
Sunday April 15, at the Wesley Anne, supported by Sam Buckingham.
What can a punter expect from your live show?
They will be watching the marriage between body and instrument, to present a variety of moving folk, country-blues stories in songs, with some mesmerising guitar licks and facial expressions.
What do you think a band has to do these days to succeed?
You’ve got to do everything yourself as an indie artist these days. Record labels are dying out, as technology has made it easier for musicians to produce music, so you need to fund it, fuel it and direct it. In terms of getting your music out there, reaching a wider audience, and selling music, you need to be a jack of all trades (or have a fantastic manager and team behind you). Not only do you need to write songs and perform them, but book gigs and tour, keep track of accounts, create merch, keep live shows fresh, learn and find inspiration, say yes to as many opportunities as you can – but know when to say no, do your own branding, graphics, marketing and advertising, use social networking, website development and updates, and nurture your relationship with fans. I’ve found you need to have your fingers in a few pies to stay afloat. I do a mix of pub gigs, weddings, original showcases, festivals, busking and sometimes teaching while plugging away at the admin.
What makes you happiest about what you’re doing?
When a stranger tells you how your music has changed their life for the better.
And what makes you unhappiest about what you’re doing?
The sharks in the industry.
Anything else to add?
I’m making an acoustic guitar at Montsalvat. Almost done! Mega exciting. I’ve posted a blog for the guitar nuts – jennybiddle.com
