A Quick Chat with Elly-May Barnes

What inspired the title "No Good”?

“No Good” was a title inspired by a combination of things. I had always found the concept of calling an album or song No Good as it’s pretty much in line with my self-deprecating humour and also has that air of ‘Bad Reputation’, tongue-in-cheek nostalgia for me. On top of that, it was a song I started writing a few years ago when my feelings had been hurt and I wanted to develop a character that was tougher than I was.

What's a unique story about this release?

This entire release is unique as it’s a product of a really unique life experience and relationships. I guess one really interesting, seemingly unlikely relationship is my friendship with the great Don Walker of Cold Chisel fame (who I suppose would also be considered my father’s friend). Though I’ve grown up with Don, as an adult I feel we have developed into a new phase and a great friendship.  As this blossomed, I joked around on the phone with him about reworking the Chisel song ‘20th Century’ into ‘21st Century’, something I would never have imagined would be possible. Not only was it honour that our lighthearted conversation turned into art that any artist would be honoured to record, but I get to pay tribute to work that is a part of my father and my friend Don’s legacy and bring it to life to a new generation. I love proudly singing their song which is also my song, and not shy away from where I came from.

Who/what are your influences/inspirations?

My influences are extremely varied though mainly from earlier time periods than people might expect from someone of my age.

When it comes to the artists that inspire me it’s impossible to list but they tend to be artists who explored different genres, pushed boundaries, created new spaces and didn’t box themselves in like David Bowie, Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Joan Jett, Chrissy Amphlett, Blondie, Michael Jackson and so many more.

Who's an Australian artist you're a huge fan of?

There are so many that is such a tricky question… As a 5-year-old I LOVED frogstomp. Daniel really inspired me to want to achieve a lot by 14 and I think his brain is incredibly unique and amazing. 

Davey Lane from You Am I is a complete genius (and completely underrated) but also completely humble and one of the kindest people I’ve ever known.

Chrissy Amphlett is completely unique and one of a kind and paved the way for not only Australian front women but all women in music. Her power and presence will always be unmatched and she is my hero, but not in the way that I would ever dream of being anything like her, because the greatness of Chrissy was that she was completely one of a kind. Chrissy taught me the ONLY thing to be is yourself. So, when I create my personas , when I bring out the versions of myself, I bring them out and stand strong and be ME. That’s what my hero would do.

What has been the most memorable moment of your musical career so far?

I feel this musical ride has been full of incredible memories that I’ll cherish forever.

One of the real highlights would have to have been when THE Don Walker, who is so intelligent, accomplished, serious and cool, took the time and was so sweet to get up at my extremely absurd and chaotic cabaret show and even pull some surprise dance moves during my finale, Dancing Queen!

It’s just another example of how the incredible people in my life are so incredible and supportive of my adventures and dreams and it is a highlight because it fills me with such gratitude and joy. 

If you weren't pursuing music, what do you think you'd be doing?

Music has been a part of every memory so I can’t imagine a life where I am not doing this. But I also am obsessed with books and writing.  I’ve always wanted to write, and I love all things artistic and creative. 

I am the kind of person who wants to try everything. I still might.

What’s on the horizon for Elly-May Barnes?

I have a million dreams and they are always escalating! I am desperate to play the songs from the album live, I want to write a book, I have a lot of dreams… but speaking of the horizon… I also want to take my son on an adventure.