A Quick Chat With Greg Gould

Greg Gould is an Australian singer and songwriter who has been capturing hearts with his powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics since he first rose to fame on the hit TV show 'Australia's Got Talent'. With an unwavering commitment to authenticity and vulnerability in his music, Greg has become a beloved figure in the Australian music industry. His latest single, 'Marching On', is a powerful anthem of hope and resilience, featuring soaring vocals and a message of perseverance in the face of adversity. 'Marching On' is a must-listen for fans of Greg's unique brand of emotive, soulful pop. We caught up with him to find out more about the track, his influences and more.

Can you tell us what this track means to you and what you want people to take away from it?

This track means the absolute world to me. It’s a real statement for me as an original artist, and not just because it’s the first original single from my debut original work after years of varied success reimagining other peoples music - but because it’s written about my community, the queer community and what we have faced - Mardi Gras started as a protest in 1978 and now we celebrate the way we do because of those who came before us - but it really is for all minorities that have had to fight to be accepted, treated equally and for our right to live in this world just like everyone else. It’s a statement of how far we have come, never forgetting who’s shoulders we stand on and also that we still have much more to keep “marching on” and fighting for.

Who are some of your influences and why?

I am lucky to have parents with great taste in music growing up so I was brought up on Aretha, Carole King, Eurythmics, Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, Elvis… I always tend to lean towards those who sang from the gut like Tina Turner, Chaka and of course Whitney is my queen! In todays music I love John Legend, Rag N Bone Man, Beyoncé, Pink - again I’m not about perfection I wanna hear your heart and soul when you sing and that’s really what I try n do when I sing too. Perfection can be boring, imperfections are interesting and real.

What's the creative process for you, from writing through to recording?

It really depends on the song or the inspiration for the song. I like to collaborate but I also write on my own. It can start with lyrics or the melody but it normally begins with a theme. With this song I wrote it with my dear friend Tony Chilvers across his kitchen table and it was done and dusted within an hour - music and lyrics finished. We had a mission with this one to write something that really meant something. I actually went into the studio in Melbourne with a click track only and did all the vocals (leads and bvs) to just a click. It was then produced in Sydney and I coproduced the whole thing with Cressbrook (amazing Sydney producers) - they were great, they knew I had a really clear vision of this song and they were able to take what was in my head and make it come to life in the song whilst adding their ideas and expertise also. I’m really proud of how it turned out.

What do you think makes a great song?

Heart, emotion. A good hook.

Something that moves you whether it be with the music, the beat, the vocal or the lyrics. This song features the Fevore String Quartet masterfully arranged by Ryan Youens - and I think it really makes this song extra special.

If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?

Oooh. Good question. Whitney would have been my number one. She is my biggest inspiration as a vocalist. But someone living… I love Emeli Sande - her voice gets me right in the guts and heart. I also think it would be cool to do something with Sam Smith or John Legend. Vocals that resonate with me but also writers who really get to the point and tell it like it is.

When not working on music, what other creative outlet/s do you have?

I’m on radio once a week on Joy 949 on Thursday nights - that’s a lot of fun and allows me to connect with other Queer and independent artists and help support their music. I also love directing - I’ve directed a few music videos for myself and others and it’a a cool outlet for my creativity.

Who are some local bands we should check out?

Ooh. I’ll tell you who I just saw who was brilliant - Bachelor Girl supported Darren Hayes on his recent tour and both were brilliant - I was blown away. Also caught Ella Hooper’s tour end of last year and her new album is AMAZING. Also featured in my music video is LION, an upcoming and amazing artist who I’m writing with atm and his live shows and music are KILLER!

Winter or summer and why?

Winter! I love snuggling up in the cold but I can’t stand not being able to get cool. I hate humidity haha - that’s why I love Melbourne so much! Don’t get me wrong I love a summer beach day - but as a whole I’m very much a winter person.

What else do you have planned for 2023?

What else do you have planned for 2023?

Much, much more original music is on the way. Touring with Synthony Dance Anthems Orchestrated, more live original shows and a few surprises up my sleeve too!

australianmusicscene17 March 2023