A QUICK CHAT WITH JORDAN WILSON

Can you tell us a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘Terminals’

I think aging was on my mind when I was writing Terminals. In the second verse I sing ‘I used to sit at Terminals, watch people wait to live. Now I can do that anywhere’. I can feel myself watching the world go by and waiting for it to start, but the song kinda discovers that that will never happen. It’s finding a way to laugh at the absurd, whether that be making love or writing a song.

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

Nature is a big one, that has to do with getting into the present moment and seeing what comes up without the restrictions of time and deadlines. The subconscious is another, what’s going on inside of me, what am I feeling and thinking about. It’s my method of exploring and discovering all of that. Then there’s the unknown, the mysteries of life and how to move through that in a joyous way.

What’s the creative process like for you?

I try and do a little bit everyday, but songs come in batches. Normally 2 or 3. I sit down at the piano or guitar and explore, play old songs of mine or others that I like. Talking with friends is a big helper to crack the codes of creativity. Going for a walk or a drive also helps.

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

I’d like to see more channels for the alternative folk, songwriter scene, whether that be radio stations or playlists. The talent out there is incredible, but I don’t feel like it’s being fully recognised in this country.

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

Probably a lot simpler, just a job and holidays, rather than chasing some burning desire that is trying to come through me, I toyed with the idea of studying Veterinary science, or becoming a carpenter but the poetry keeps reeling me back in.

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

I’m enjoying my collaboration with Daniel Forsyth at the moment. He produced my last two singles and has helped me workshop a bunch of songs, he’s a great ear and a lot of fun in the studio!

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

Patti Smith said forge a good name and the rest will follow. That’s the path I’m chasing down. Enjoy the process is an obvious one, the enjoyment of the craft is the only thing that will really get you through a pretty tough industry. Play with friends, fill up that well and get your mojo going.

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

Paul Kelly bought me a few whiskeys after a show we played together. It was cool to see a guy so hungry after having achieved so much. He was talking about current sports stars and wanting to learn French, it was quite surreal.

Any plans for a tour on the cards?

I’m doing Sydney and Melbourne in the next couple of weeks, hopefully more next year.