A Quick Chat with Amber Farnan

Your new single 'Empty' explores emotional exhaustion and disconnection. What inspired you to write this song?

Empty was written about processing past trauma and getting to a place where I could accept what had happened. It's about learning to move forward and forgive, not because what happened was okay, but because I didn't want to carry that weight forever. It was a really personal song to write, but I think a lot of people have experienced that feeling in different ways.

Sonically, 'Empty' blends indie-folk intimacy with modern pop production. How did you find that balance in the studio?

I've always loved music that feels really raw and honest but still sounds full and cinematic. We didn't want to overproduce it. We wanted the emotion to come first. Every part was there to support the story, rather than take away from it.

You grew up in Cooktown, far from Australia's major music hubs. How has that shaped the artist you've become today?

Growing up in a remote town was pretty isolating from the music world. There weren't many opportunities, so I spent a lot of time teaching myself through YouTube and just figuring things out as I went. I think that's made me really determined and independent, because if I wanted something to happen, I had to make it happen myself.

You've shared stages with artists like Missy Higgins, Ben Lee and The Jezabels. What's one lesson you've taken away from those experiences?

The biggest thing I've learnt is that people connect with honesty. Watching artists like that perform reminded me that you don't have to be perfect. You just have to be yourself and tell your story.

You've described your music as being for the "beautifully overwhelmed." Why does that phrase resonate so strongly with you?

I think everyone feels overwhelmed at some point. Life can be messy, hard and beautiful all at once, and that's the kind of stuff I like writing about. If someone hears one of my songs and feels a little less alone, then that's everything to me.

With 'Empty' now out in the world, what are you most excited for audiences to experience next?

I'd love to get out and play these songs live outside of Cairns. Performing is my favourite part of being a musician, so I'm really looking forward to connecting with new audiences. I'm also excited to get back into the studio and record more music.