Alessandra
One of Australia’s most popular songwriters, Amba Shepherd, is back with a new dance-pop record that will have you singing from the moment you fall asleep to the moment you wake up. The single, titled ‘Something Beautiful,’ was released in late June of this year and has continued to gain popularity ever since. In fact, Shepherd has already worked with some of the biggest producers in the industry, including Porter Robinson and Tiesto, and has more collaborations in the works. In an exclusive interview with CelebMix, she opened up about her music, future goals and more.
How did you first get started with music?
My Dad is a musician and there was always music in our house. He bought me some amazing headphones on me when I was 4 or 5 years old and I still remember that moment and that feeling! I studied piano from the age of 7 and then various other instruments [like] violin, flute, clarinet, theory, singing and drums through school.
Who would you say are your musical influences?
Definitely my Dad, and many of the classic artists and singers you tend to study as a music student like Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughn, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Sting, Roberta Flack, Donny Hathaway, then later electronic artists like Cassius, Daft Punk [and] Imogen Heap.
What can you tell us about your latest single ‘Something Beautiful’ and its message?
‘Something Beautiful’ is such an up and vibey track. [It’s] quite different from the darker heavier tracks I have tended to release previously. It’s about finding that one person you connect with when nothing else makes sense, when you feel lost or disillusioned with people or with life [and] how much that simple wonderful connection means.
You have worked with some awesome producers including Porter Robinson! Do you have any dream collaborations for the future?
Yes! I loved working with Porter Robinson [and] we made that track in an insanely fast 24 hours I recall, between Sydney and the U.S. in our respective studios. I would love to work with Pharrell Williams, Calvin Harris, Don Diablo, Deadmau5, Axwell, Diplo and Kygo. I can go on and on. There are so many brilliant artists I love.
If could perform your music at any festival around the world, which would it be and why?
I would love to perform at Coachella. Palm Springs! Amazing stages.
What can fans look forward to in the near or distant future?
Working hard on studio right now with some really exciting collaborations coming up and a new live show!
Follow Amba Shepherd on Instagram and Twitter.
Be sure to listen to ‘Something Beautiful’ here.
