Can you tell me a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘One Of These Days’

For almost as long as I can remember, my brother has struggled with a drug addiction. We were really close growing up and I spent so much of my earlier years thinking I was responsible for making his life better. That I had to somehow fix things. I wrote this song for him and for his son. It’s a song about finding yourself at rock bottom, starting with nothing, and finding the tools to build a way out of heartbreak and shattered circumstances.

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

My influences are my experiences and my perspective of the world around me I guess. I like to write songs as honestly as I can, as there’s more chance people will resonate with it.

What’s the creative process like for you?

It’s always different. Every song is born in a different way. Some are busting to come out and fall out in 10 minutes, others take years. Some are just in the compost bin. In terms of writing, it’s generally the melody that comes first.

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

I’d like to change how artists are valued. I think there is so much amazing music coming out of Australia but to me it seems that so many artists are underappreciated and many go unnoticed unless they can afford a massive marketing machine. It’s hard to keep going as a musician sometimes, having to work extra jobs, when all you want to do is your craft. I’d like to see the entertainment economy, especially for independent artists, reflect the incredible amount of time, energy and work that goes on behind the scenes.

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

I think I would be in a psychiatric hospital to be honest. Music is how I process my experiences so without it, I would be a mess.

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

I haven’t collaborated a lot but I would like to do more of it. There are so many artists I’d love to write with. Charm of Finches, Kerrianne Cox, Paul Kelly, Passenger…. The endless list of storytellers.

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

Don’t forget to have fun. Write for yourself, not for what you think people want to hear. Or don’t!

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

Probably Charlie Mgee from ‘Formidable Veg’. This guy has such an interesting story. He has so many talents and such an amazing perspective on the world and is also the most humble person. He also writes songs about compost toilets and growing food!

Favourite hangover cure?

I don’t drink, but back when I did it was a cuppa tea with sugar and milk and vegemite on toast with loads of butter.

Any plans for a tour on the cards?

Yes. Fingers crossed I’ll be embarking on a National Tour in September! Dates will be announced with the new album release on May 20.

A QUICK CHAT WITH Loren Kate