A QUICK CHAT WITH BOO SEEKA

Can you tell me a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘Real’

This was an idea that originally came from Hayden James when we started talking about writing some songs together. When we went to record it, Hayden had lost the session so we ended moving on to write two other tracks for his album. Jay and I were so obsessed with the idea that we spoke to our producer Matt Bartlem and he was able to recreate a lot of the original music that we loved so much and the melodies for this track came so quickly. 

We took the idea back to Hayden and we all agreed we should work on this song for the Boo record, and now it’s here for everyone to hear. Thoughts? 

What are you influences and how do they affect your songwriting? 

I usually don’t listen to a lot of music when I’m writing as I don’t want to be influenced too much by other artists, but for this project it was different. I definitely have had the honour to be surrounded by a lot of amazing musicians this time around that have influenced & changed the tracks A LOT than if it was just me and my producer in the studio. 

Hayden James & Jay Bainbridge had a heap of input into this one, and it definitely wouldn’t be the same without them. 

What’s the creative process like for you?

There definitely isn’t a repeated process when it comes to writing the music for me. Sometimes it comes from hearing or seeing something, waking up from a dream, going through a certain emotion at the time, having an instrument in my hand, and other times it’s something completely different. However, I would say that regardless of how the process starts I always end up at some point breaking it down with a guitar to hear the melody in its rawest form.

If you could change something about the Australian music industry what would it be? 

I personally feel that prior to covid the industry between the artists was a competition. Music shouldn’t be a competition and we should be out there supporting and understanding the ups and downs this industry has, together. I do feel that has started to change in the last 18 months. More artists are out there helping promote and support other artists gigs and realising that we have lost a lot in the last two and a half years and want to do more to support.

What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet? 

I’m just honoured that I don’t have to think of an answer for that question but it sure did feel it was going that way the last few years with covid and I hated it. Music is an expression for me and a feeling needed for everyone. 

Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with?  Why?

Working with anyone and everyone always brings a new experience and I think as a writer and a creator you always need to be open and willing to express and expand in all directions 

I am honoured to be working on so much music across so many different genres at the moment.

But if I had to pick a few that would be a bucket list for me they would be Chris Martin, Kevin Parker, Justin Vernon, Lana Del Ray, Beyoncé 

What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry? 

This may sound very cliche but honestly, I think it’s as simple as this. Only do it if you truly love it. Regardless if you are playing in front on thousands of people of still where you were at the beginning 10 years later. Music is an expression of you and no one can take that away from you.

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met? 

Everyone brings a new interesting experience and I love every new interaction. 

But the people I call family around me at the moment who have been a massive part of this record are the most interesting and amazing people I have been working with and love them all

Jay, Matt, Hayden, Luke and Ian all bring something interesting and new to every session and their personalities influence me all differently but all in amazing ways 

Favourite hangover cure?

Pinot Noir and a bowl of Pho.. works every time

Tell us a bit about your upcoming tour with Hayden James. 

Hayden and I have come very close since working together and have been able to play a couple of shows such as Coachella and Beyond the City but to take it all on tour is going to be incredible. We also have a lot in common when it comes to wine and food so I’m sure there are going to be some great adventures in between the shows.