Ahead of his appearance on Wednesday night as part of the Country and Inner Western night at Goodgod in Sydney, we catch up with Shane Nicholson to talk about how he got started as a musician, who inspires him, the genre of Americana and we find out what is coming next from the Australian Roots/Country/Folk Artist.
When did you first know you wanted to be a musician?
When I was 12 years old and first picked up my mum’s acoustic guitar. I learned to play Cat Steven’s “Father & Son”. After that, I was hooked forever. My first musical memory is dancing to the Leyland Brothers theme song.
What was the first instrument you learnt to play?
I first played side drum in my primary school marching band. I had heard that drummers
get all the girls. Not entirely true, as it turns out.
Who and What inspires you as a musician?
Music is what made me want to make music in the first place, and it’s still what makes me do it. Listening to something that I love is what inspires me to be creative. Songs are the drug.
Are you excited to play with any other musicians in particular?
I had the pleasure of playing with The Morrisons a few weeks ago at Bigsound, and they were a hoot!! Great band. So I’m very much looking forward to busting it out with them again.
Are you a fan of the Mexican beer selection they have?
There’s Mexican beer?? Bonus!
Is Americana making a comeback? Did it ever really go away?
Americana has always been around, disguised as many different things over the years. It generally seems to be enjoying a popularity surge at the moment, which is good to see.
Is Americana the right term or is it Country music pure and simple? Does the word “Country” carry an expectation?
The entire concept of labeling music has always struck me as weird and difficult. Outside of knowing which section to shelve a CD in at the record store, there just isn’t any valuable use for a genre label. I find it rather limiting – as a musician AND as a listener.
What do you think has made the genre last all these years?
Songs.
What’s coming up next for you?
I have my first Live album being released next month, and am just about to start recording the next solo album, due for release early 2015.
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Shane Nicholson is playing Country and Inner Western at Goodgod Small Club in Sydney on 29th October. Tickets are just $10 on the door and the night also features The Morrisons, Jenny Queen, Ruby Boots, Andy Golledge and some promised special guests!
