B Grade University came out in 2016 – what do you think has changed most in the Aus music scene since then?

Dude, so much. Some good things, some bad things. The thing that remains the same is that the Australian music scene is forever loaded with so much talent. I feel so proud to be an Australian artist and to be surrounded by peers, mentors and friends who inspire and move me with their music every single day. However, I do think that the scene is currently in a challenging state of flux when it comes to how audiences are discovering local artists. But with that comes an opportunity for innovation and creative approaches to finding your audience.

The single You Don’t Think You Like People Like Me became a queer anthem and the new recording features Tegan and Sara – how did that collaboration come about?

I have been a Tegan and Sara fan since I was a kid and getting to meet them and tour with them in 2017 was a dream come true. I say, “never meet your heroes…..unless they’re Tegan and Sara”. They have become friends and role models to me. The fact that I could text them to ask if they wanted to feature on the song blows my smooth brain.

You’ve been living in the US for a while now, and have recently toured there – who are your fave local acts to see live over there?

Ok, here’s a selection: Illuminati Hotties, Talker, Maddie Ross, Gay Meat, Rodeo Boys, Malnotbad, Mini Trees, Christian Lee Hutson, Allie, Ren Martinez, PVRIS

The past 10 years have been huge for you – what are you hoping to see happen in the next 10?

I hope in 10 years I’m still touring and making records of my own. I would love to keep writing more songs for other artists and producing more records. I just love making stuff. I also hope that the industry changes in a way that honours creatives and artists adequately. I would love to see the dismantling of systems that hamstrings creatives from sustaining themselves to keep doing their jobs and developing their craft - things like negligible streaming remuneration, merch cuts, outrageous promotor fees and unethical data usage. These things need to stop if us a society wants to continue to enjoy and celebrate art from real life working artists.

You’re bringing the tour to Australia to celebrate the anniversary of B Grade University this month, what can fans expect from these shows?

A bloody good time. My band and I can’t wait to bring this tour to Australia. We’re going to play some DEEP cuts along with some favourites. There’s nothing better than coming home - it’s always special.

Alex Lahey – Australian Tour 2026

Thu 20 Aug 2026 – The Triffid – Brisbane, QLD
Fri 21 Aug 2026 – Corner Hotel – Melbourne, VIC
Sat 22 Aug 2026 – Manning Bar – Sydney, NSW
Fri 28 Aug 2026 – The Rosemount Hotel – Perth, WA
Sat 29 Aug 2026 – Jive – Adelaide, SA

Tickets on sale now via alexlahey.com.au

A Quick Chat with Alex Lahey