A Quick Chat with Robbie Bostock
Can you tell me a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘Cryptic Love’?
It started off with just a riff, it really grooved so I knew I definitely wanted to explore it further. I sat on that riff for years before I dragged it back out. I was toying with some vocal ideas over the top, it was originally going to have lyrics on it but as I started demoing the track all of the melody just came straight out of my fingers and onto my guitar, it just felt right to keep it instrumental. It’s actually probably one the easiest songs of mine to play but it’s got all the elements I like in a song; groove, harmonies and a strong melody.
What are your influences and how do they affect your songwriting?
Many different things influence my songwriting however just my overall desire to be creative is what really motivates me at the end of the day. I’m always keeping an ear out for little things that might spark something inside me, it could be a small section of a song, a beat, a conversation , a word or a movie scene; I’m always paying attention for that one bit of gold that grabs me.
What’s the creative process like for you?
Normally, I’ll get an idea for a song and I’ll just quickly record it on my phone; it could be a chord progression, a lyric, a melody idea or a riff. I could be at a soundcheck or doing a session job where I get an idea so it’s just a quick reference so I don’t forget it. Once it comes time to write properly I’ll go through my voice notes app thoroughly looking for any bits of gold. I’ll then really start to workshop one idea, sometimes a few voice note ideas will match together. I have a home studio so I’ll then start layering all the foundations of the track all the while exploring alternate melodies to make sure I’ve got the best one for the song.
If you could change something about the Australian music industry what would it be?
I wouldn’t change anything per se but I would enhance the ecosystem that has been the baseline for many emerging artists. A lot has changed since I first started playing music so I’d love to see more industry events for young artists to network and build a team behind their careers.
What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet?
It’s hard to imagine life without having music as an outlet, for me it’s everything. No doubt I would’ve had another similar creative outlet if I wasn’t a musician like painting, I loved painting and art when I was younger.
Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with? Why?
Well, not that they would need me but it would be a dream to do something with either Hank Marvin or Tommy Emmanuel, they have both inspired so many guitarists. I’ve performed alongside Tommy a couple of times before and it’s like sparring with Muhammed Ali in his prime, it’s frightening but he brings the best out of you.
What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry?
I would say; follow your passion and be as prepared as you can be before a performance.
Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met?
10 years ago I was fortunate enough to collaborate on an album with Phil Emmanuel. He was such an interesting person, not only did he have so much knowledge of music he also loved Australian wildlife. Many times we’d be on the road and he would pull the car over to the side of the road and he’d race off into the bush and re-emerge with either a large snake or lizard. He was such a great fella and now that he is longer with us I cherish those memories.
Any plans for a tour on the cards?
I’m performing at Blues On Broadbeach May 18-21., I’m really looking forward to showcasing my songs there. Its such a great festival and in the perfect spot. It's a free festival too!