A Quick Chat With Angelina Curtis
Angelina Curtis invites listeners into a teenage daydream with ‘Stereo’, her newest single out now. At just 17, the singer-songwriter has already made waves, performing live for 12,000 at Perth’s RAC Arena and capturing a million TV viewers during her Australian Idol run. With synaesthesia shaping her unique sonic palette, Angelina crafts intricate, emotionally charged music—and ‘Stereo’ is no exception. A hypnotic alt-pop track built on flowing guitar riffs, echoing vocals, and lo-fi static, it perfectly captures the longing and contradictions of youth. With storytelling lyrics and ethereal high notes, the song explores the ache of wanting to be seen but fading into the background—like a stereo left playing on low. We caught up with Angelina to talk about the track, her journey, and what’s next.
Can you tell us what this track means to you and what you want people to take away from it?
I want to make people feel comforted that they’re not alone in their delusions. The song plays on the desire to be seen, be heard, and be loved. Especially on the troubles that come in a relationship that isn’t working out, no matter how much effort is put into it. Through the driving metaphor, it’s about trying so hard to go somewhere but making no progress. It’s the delusional attempt to be seen and be at the forefront of someone’s mind, and eventually realising you're just something in the background. Like a stereo.
Who are some of your influences, and why?
Lizzy McAlpine, boygenius, Sarah Kinsley, Elton John, Chappell Roan. I love their 80s synth, indie pop, melodically complex styles. I love all their music.
What's the creative process for you, from writing through to recording?
I often write songs from my dreams – I wake up with a song. My guitar and keyboard are always right next to my bed. Otherwise, if not from my dreams I write fairly freestyle. ‘Stereo’ was different. It came to me a few days before a breakup; in hindsight I was foreshadowing and because of the emotional intensity, writing the song took me a few days. I find songwriting therapeutic. I hope it is for other people too.
What do you think makes a great song?
Something written with authenticity and expression. Something from the heart, truly healing or speaking to a true passion. A great song has an underlying theme or message and should evoke or replicate a feeling.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
I’d love to collaborate with Hozier, Sarah Kinsley or The 1975. Our writing styles are similar and their musical genius would be captivating to watch in action.
When not working on music, what other creative outlet/s do you have?
I’m a working screen actor, so I’m always getting ready for a big audition or on set filming. Or I’m on stage performing. It’s all a form of self-expression. Finding your truth in a character’s story and escaping your own world is deeply healing.
Who are some local bands we should check out?
Go check out the Kick Ons, Sub Zero, Hey So Hungry, and my friend Rosalie Chilvers band.
Winter or summer and why?
For me I love winter; the comforts, the petrichor from the rain, the greenery (we lack that in the west!), hot chocolates….also the lack of glare and sunburn.
What do you have planned for 2025?
I’m in year 12 doing 5 ATAR subjects, along with filming on set, and various music gigs (I have So Far Sounds Perth gig coming up on 4 April, and Mojos songwriter nights in Freo always have a special place in my heart). And of course trying to be a normal teenager too. I’m a very prolific songwriter so I’m also trying to pick a few outta the hundreds I’ve written to release in my EP later this year!
Official Website | Spotify | Apple Music | Soundcloud | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube